Dear John,

As COVID-19 continues to force girls out of school and into marriage, what can we do to ensure that young people are educated and empowered?  

This year in the Alta Verapaz region of Guatemala, the numbers of adolescent pregnancies and out-of-school girls are among the highest in Latin America. Meanwhile, the province has the lowest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the country, at only 15% of the entire population.

Our new Empower to Plan partner, Na’leb’ak, is working on the frontline to give young people a chance. They are seeking your support to reach 80 girls with weekly sex education sessions which will empower local youth to make positive choices about their lives and their communities.

Over the next three months, Na’leb’ak will not only provide integral sex education to three rural communities, but will also develop girls’ skills and confidence through agroecology and weaving workshops. As Na'leb'ak's Programme Coordinator Karla tells us, “The creation of diversified vegetable gardens and the weaving of artisanal textiles is also a form of promoting socioeconomic empowerment, serving as a way for girls to achieve their dreams and goals.”

By supporting this inspiring team of young leaders, you can be part of real, tangible and holistic change for indigenous youth, enabling access to quality sex education, good nutrition and socioeconomic independence.

Please join us in creating happy and healthy futures for Guatemalan girls and their communities.

Thank you,

Population Matters & Na'leb'ak