Exito Verde

Diana is a young woman from the neighborhood Manitas, south of Bogota. For many years, it was a neighborhood taken over by people who had been displaced by the violence and overpopulation in Bogota. They faced stigmatization and neglect from the rest of the country. Yet a spirit of resistance has grown through collective, community work, and people like Diana, who characterizes the strength that can come from adversity.

Diana’s family arrived to the neighborhood in 2005. At that time, they had two rooms for nine people: her parents, Diana, and her six siblings. When it would rain, the water would get in and flood the house. Through involvement with Exito Verde, as well as a positive attitude and perseverance, Diana was able to help improve her family’s situation. She helped in the foundation as well as the recycling school, at the same time as taking care of her siblings while her parents were working. The family found support through tourists who visited with Viventura and VSocial, and a direct donation allowed them to finish their house so they had a decent place to live.

A couple of years ago, Diana enrolled in a bakery academy, graduating first as a bakery technician and later as a food processing technologist. She now works as a production manager in a small food company. Diana continues to support Exito Verde, believing it allows other young people like her to fulfill their dreams. She considers herself a "warrior woman" who does not let negativity hold her back, and believes that if she sets goals and is diligent, they will be realized. She still has many dreams to make come true!

The Manitas neighborhood has continued to change, and Diana feels that it has been in a positive way. Many young people who were part of gangs have approached the foundation, looking for a safe and peaceful place to take refuge. It is a place where youths can feel listened to and a little less lonely. And, like Diana, discover that nothing is impossible with hard work and community.