We need your help to sponsor one of our bright, young honor students who could not otherwise afford higher education.
This is a story of how a few generous, caring people changed the trajectory of a young life and helped to create a budding leader. Juan ‘Jaime’ Breña was a smart but very shy youngster. He had a remarkable memory, was a dedicated student and excelled in school.
During his last year of high school, Jaime’s mother heard about Jóvenes Adelantes scholarships on the radio and encouraged Jaime to apply. His mother was a very smart woman who knew the power of education. Lacking self-confidence, Jaime hesitated to go for an interview. But, with his mother’s strong encouragement, he applied for and was granted a Jóvenes Adelante scholarship.
Now, with a degree in aeronautical manufacturing processes and engineering from the prestigious Universidad Aeronautica en Queretaro, Jaime’s planning and productivity team manage their company’s human capital. With manpower planning, they have saved their company, TechOps México, significant man hours each month. He has also created a summary report for his CEO, who says, “Jaime is my eyes out in the operation.”
Jaime is now a cheerful, outgoing young man who displays a perpetual smile. His confidence level is high, so he does not hesitate to challenge authority with his ideas. Jaime gives great credit to the people who supported his education and personal development. For instance to:
His mother, who successfully encouraged all her children to focus on education. She recently earned her own high school diploma.
Sra. Altagracia, an elementary school teacher who taught Jaime to relate all his learning to real-life situations.
Judy and Bill Zivko, of Zivko Aeronautics, who financially sponsored Jaime’s Jóvenes Adelantes scholarship and gave him encouragement throughout his college years. Jaime just visited the Zivkos’ aircraft manufacturing facility in Oklahoma, a visit which Judy describes as “a joy.”
Judy Zivco, Jaime Brena, and Bill Zivco
Jaime’s Jóvenes Adelantes mentor, Andrea Gerson, whose support and coaching helped mold the strong, successful, self-confident young leader that Jaime is today.
Jaime says, “Jóvenes Adelante not only transformed my life, they entirely changed my mind.”
It has been scientifically proven that, by helping others, we create happier, healthier, more energetic lives for ourselves. The Zivkos talked about how much they gained from their lasting relationship with Jaime, pride and delight shining in their faces as they talked. Andrea Gerson described the mentorship as a two-way street and a rewarding experience. Our sponsors describe this as one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. For as little as $120 USD per month, you can become a Jóvenes sponsor. Will you help us meet our goals of helping 25 honor graduates create an amazing life?
A Jóvenes Adelantes scholarship package offers funding, a mentor, life-skills training, English tutoring, counseling, a laptop and a supportive network of Jóvenes graduates.
Eighty-five percent of Jóvenes students graduate from college, a much higher rate than Canada, the US or Mexico. Donate or volunteer at JovenesAdelante.org or contact Robin Loving (415 112-3413 and 925 476-8117, [email protected]).
By Nora Weaver
