Do you know who is one of Diunsa’s best collaborators?
A few months ago I came to San Pedro Sula and met a young man who surprised me with his story.
His name is Erick. Like many in Honduras, Erick felt that here, in his country, he did not have opportunities.
He felt that he was not going to fulfill his dreams in Honduras.
Therefore, Erick considered migrating.
He contemplated leaving behind his family, his home and his land.
Fortunately, Erick did not migrate.
On the contrary, he found the opportunity he needed and expected through USAID and Diunsa.
Today Erick, he is one of the best collaborators in Diunsa and is creating his future here in Honduras.
Dear Mr. Mario Fara, President of Diunsa and FUNDAHRSE, triends from the private sector, youth that accompanies us in this event, members of the media, special guests.
There are thousands of Ericks in this country, talented young people who all they need is a vote of confidence and an opportunity.
And there are many companies that need qualified employees.
In response to this need, we have developed Creating My Future Here.
We are trying to bridge the gap between youth and business.
They say that the third time is the charm.
Erick told me that he had heard about the show a couple of times before he finally decided to get on it.
And I have heard from companies that they are concerned about employing people from high-risk neighborhoods.
Young people should take the opportunity to be part of these programs, and companies should not be afraid to work with young people from high-risk neighborhoods.
Through USAID, we are working to create capacities in young people and connect them with jobs. If we are successful, we reduce migration and so many people take risks on that dangerous route.
And we can provide qualified employees who can help businesses and the economy grow.
According to data from US Customs and Border Patrol, so far in 2022, more than 122,000 Hondurans have decided to make the dangerous journey to the southern border of the United States.
That’s why that now, more than ever, we seek to promote youth development.
Young people need us to support them.
Together we can show them that irregular migration is not the solution.
Let me give you some examples of how working together we make a difference: Together with Diunsa and Confecciones Monzini, we have supported more than one thousand two hundred young people with employment.
Obviously, young people benefit, but so do companies.
Among the benefits is cost reduction. Having young people trained in technical skills to perform in a professional and responsible manner results in lower staff turnover and job stability.
GCG Ground and Graphics Source have also teamed up and have hired over 80 young people.
Colleagues from the private sector, we invite you to join us in promoting the progress of this great country.
Young people, it is up to you to take advantage of the opportunities that we are creating.
It is not necessary to leave your home and your people to be successful.
Through Creating my future Here we are creating conditions for economic growth for all. Thank you for your attention.
Thank you very much!
