Growing futures in Zuleta: how Fundación Galo Plaza Lasso supports education

Oct 8

In Zuleta, education is one of the most tangible ways to care for the community. At Fundación Galo Plaza Lasso we support children and young people from Zuleta and neighboring communities so they can stay in school and discover new ways of seeing the world. This year, we did so through two initiatives that have grown over time.

Scholarship Program: 24 students supported

The Scholarship Program began more than 10 years ago with just 9 children. It nearly disappeared during the pandemic, and this year we were able to secure scholarships for 24 children and young people from Zuleta and neighboring communities.

The program connects students with donors who make a single annual contribution. These funds cover school supplies, backpacks, uniforms, shoes, and the fees required by each school. Beneficiaries are selected based on an assessment of their family and economic circumstances.

Beyond the material support, each scholarship is a powerful incentive to reduce school dropout rates and help young people continue their education.

Summer School: new ways of looking

Summer School has been a community tradition for more than 15 years. Since last year, the community leadership has taken the lead, organizing a month long program that now reaches many more children and young people.

The Foundation is responsible for one of those weeks. This year, Hacienda Zuleta came alive with children and teenagers taking part in workshops designed for each age group. The youngest, aged 6 to 8, created their own stories. Those between 9 and 12 tried their hand at social circus, and teenagers aged 13 and above learned photography.

Through these experiences, we seek to connect them with art, creativity, and exploration, encouraging them to open their minds and see their surroundings in a new light. It was a week full of learning and fun.