Johandy, like many young adults in rural Nicaragua, found himself going to Costa Rica or other nearby cities in search of work. He is studying to be a primary school teacher and is passionate about working with youth. When CEPAD started to provide workshops in his community, Johandy got involved with our Youth Leadership Program, where he learned about stress, mental health, bullying, drug and alcohol abuse, teen pregnancy, and more. He felt more committed to staying in his community and helping vulnerable youth.

“I want to help generate change in other youth like me. I advise other adolescents not to drop out of school and to work hard in their studies, especially the girls. Teen pregnancy often forces them to stop their studies and grow up too soon.”

“I believe that the job we are doing is really important and valuable for our community. I want to say thank you to all who make CEPAD’s work possible. I am especially touched by their work with mental health. It’s not something a lot of organizations talk about, but it’s really important.”

We are so thankful to have youth leaders like Johandy empower and counsel other youth to help stop harmful cycles of addiction, teen pregnancy, and substance abuse. He is creating the change needed to make a different future. To provide other youth leaders with the same trainings, you can partner with CEPAD here.