Written by volunteer Alayna Bakke

Imagine what coffee would taste like if it was organic, pest-free, and sustainably farmed with love and care spoken over it. This is exactly how Ariel Herrerra grows his coffee. Ariel is a young, thriving coffee farmer and accountant. Born and raised in the community of Patastillal, Ariel grew up watching his father farm and decided to move away and attend university. He studied accounting in the regional capital Jinotega before returning home.

“I’ve never wanted to move somewhere else. I’ve always wanted to live here, until the end of my days.”

Ariel is one of six community leaders in Patastillal.

“[My favorite part of being a community leader] is helping the poor families who are most in need of support or help. We’ve been able to help with roofs for houses, providing hygiene and health items, and food packages. These are some of the most important things that the poorest people need.”

He attends CEPAD’s workshops where he is learning the fundamental pillars of leadership, how to make a plan and execute it, and how to write advocacy letters.

“Something I’m proud of and feel good about is that through CEPAD, as a community leader and someone who’s part of CEPAD’s programs, I’ve learned so much, which has developed and empowered my work. It makes me proud and happy.”

He has seen a lot of positive change in his community already. They were provided hurricane relief, water filters, farming supplies, and farming knowledge on organic production. Ariel is a disciple of a neighboring farmer, so he is learning new techniques to implement on his own farm.

Ariel farms with the same love and care he shares with his community.

“I like to see if any of my plants are sick, and figure out how I can heal them. I like to watch everything grow, too, and talk with them out in the field. I ask my plants how they feel, if they have any problems.”

Ariel dreams of owning his own business someday, buying and selling coffee. He and his wife are expecting a baby girl, and he wants to make a better life for them.

“I want to help my family and improve their quality of life.”

Ariel has more goals for his community as well.

“[My goal is to] execute projects in more organic produce, latrines, and increase in reforestation efforts – these are some of the main goals. Another would be road repair in the community, improving the school, and getting a health center.”

Thanks to YOU, Ariel and his community are able to overcome the obstacles they face daily living in the countryside, and dream about a fruitful future. To help more communities experience growth and be empowered, partner with CEPAD here.