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Our monthly photo series highlights the beauty and emotion in the lives of our clients around the world. This month, we’re featuring three young people who have gained the knowledge, skills, and connections they need to succeed. Read their stories, then vote for your favorite photo.

From the coffee farms of Peru to the bustling markets of Mozambique and the coastal waters of Kenya, meet three young people crafting brighter futures for themselves and their communities. Their journeys illustrate how targeted support and training can unlock youth potential. Join us in honoring their achievements and vote for the photo that best captures the spirit of youth empowerment.

3 Youth Success Stories

PHOTO 1: Cristian Jeher Silva (Peru)

Cristian Jeher Silva (left) and his mother Lilibeth Llanos (right) inspect coffee trees on a farm in San Martín, Peru. (TechnoServe / Julieta Ocampo)
Cristian Jeher Silva (left) and his mother Lilibeth Llanos (right) inspect coffee trees on a farm in San Martín, Peru. (TechnoServe / Julieta Ocampo)

Cristian Jeher Silva grew up on a small farm in rural Peru. Like many young people across the country, he dreamed of a life outside of agriculture. He eventually moved to Moyobamba, Peru, to pursue training as an auto mechanic. Then, in 2020, the pandemic hit, forcing the government to enforce strict lockdowns and restrictions on movement. 

Feeling trapped in the city, Cristian decided to return to the family farm in 2021. That same year, he joined TechnoServe’s Alianza CAFE project, where he gained critical skills to help manage the family’s small coffee plot. Today, he envisions a bright future for himself and his young family.

PHOTO 2: Rábia Eusebio (Mozambique)

Rábia Eusebio, a young entrepreneur, stands before her poultry business in Nampula, Mozambique. Part of a blog post sharing youth success stories.
Rábia Eusebio, a young entrepreneur, stands before her poultry business in Nampula, Mozambique. (TechnoServe / Olivia Sakai).

Rábia Eusebio owns and operates a poultry business in Nampula, Mozambique. Although she started her business 10 years ago, it has only been in the last few years that the enterprise has expanded significantly. Rábia participated in a TechnoServe program working with micro and small growing businesses in northern Mozambique. Through the program, she learned critical business skills that have helped her take her business to the next level. Since joining the program, she has increased her production capacity to 1,000 chickens in a 35-day cycle, and she now employs two people in her community. 

PHOTO 3: Brian Mwakudza (Kenya)

Brian Mwakudza shows off his recent catch in Mombasa County, Kenya. (TechnoServe)
Brian Mwakudza shows off his recent catch in Mombasa County, Kenya. (TechnoServe)

Brian Mwakudza is a fisherman, fish trader, and part-time construction worker in Mombasa County, Kenya. He exemplifies dedication to his work and community. Brian is involved in the local beach management unit and mangrove conservation efforts. He has also taken a proactive step to improve his business operations by registering for a TechnoServe program working with young entrepreneurs in his area. 

Brian recognizes the value of training and support and seeks to improve his business operations and make informed decisions. His participation in the program reflects his desire to overcome daily barriers, positioning himself for growth and development. Brian’s willingness to learn and adapt showcases his resilience and forward-thinking approach as he works toward building a more successful and sustainable business that benefits his family, community, and the local economy.

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