During our recent visit to La Paz, Honduras, we met a group of young people doing something unusual with their phones — taking them apart piece by piece. In a world where many young people are often criticized for being glued to their screens, these students are learning how those devices work and, more importantly, how repairing them can become a source of income and opportunity.
The students are part of a Kenoli-supported cell phone repair training program run by Grupo Juvenil Dion. In North America, a broken phone is often quickly replaced. In Honduras, where many families live on limited incomes, repairing a phone is far more affordable than buying a new one. This creates a real demand for skilled repair technicians — and new opportunities for young people seeking stable livelihoods.
In a country where formal employment opportunities are limited and approximately 75% of the working population earns a living in the informal sector, programs like this are especially important. They equip participants with practical, marketable skills that allow them to generate income, often through self-employment or small businesses.
The course brings together women and men ranging in age from 16 to 44. Some are currently in high school, while others never had the chance to finish primary school because of distance, poverty, or family circumstances. What they share is determination and hope for a better future.
One student, Franklin, works as a farm labourer and walks 40 minutes every day to attend classes. He plans to open his own cell phone repair business. His commitment is a powerful reminder of how much these opportunities matter.
We also met Itamar, a mother of four whose story beautifully demonstrates the long-term impact of these programs. She previously completed Dion’s bakery training course. When she graduated, she had the skills but no financial resources. Without assets, no bank would offer her a loan. Through a low-interest loan provided by Dion, she was able to purchase a professional oven and launch her own bakery business. In less than a year, she has built a thriving micro-enterprise that now employs two additional people, and she markets her baked goods through social media and local fairs.
What makes Dion’s programs especially effective is that they go beyond technical training. Students also learn entrepreneurial and life skills — how to start and manage a business, calculate costs, market products, and plan for growth. These practical tools help participants build not only income, but confidence and independence.
A key ingredient in the success of the program has been the strong partnership between Dion, the municipality of La Paz, and Kenoli. Each partner contributes in important ways to support the training and the students. During our visit, the Mayor warmly welcomed us and expressed his appreciation to both Dion and Kenoli for helping create opportunities for people in his community.
(From left to right) Will Aguilar, Director of Dion, Ken & Vera of Kenoli, the Mayor of La Paz, Magda and Nely of Kenoli
It was a rewarding day — one that reminded us that meaningful change often begins with practical opportunities, supportive partnerships, and the determination of people who simply need a chance to succeed.