The mentoring program "Women Empowering Women" had a positive impact on 61 participants

Quevedo, Ecuador. - On May 10, the graduation ceremony was held for the participants of the "Women Empowering Women" mentoring program, in which 40 adolescent girls from rural communities received support and training in gender equality, professional tools and violence prevention for three months, under the guidance of 21 female leaders from Reybanpac and Wong Foundation, with the methodological support of the NGO Plan International.

The day began with a workshop on how to build a life project. Both mentees and mentors had the opportunity to work together to define their future goals and deepen the tools and attitudes necessary to achieve their objectives.

Afterward, the graduation event was held, in which the valuable participation of young women and their mentors was recognized. Marjorie, one of the mentees, said that what she learned will be useful in her future career. "I am infinitely grateful to our mentors, REYBANPAC, Wong Foundation, Plan International, and all those who have been part of this enriching project, which has strengthened our empowerment, because each of us is a leader," said the young woman in her speech.

Ariana, a student of the Wong Foundation, said that thanks to "Women Empowering Women" she was able to deepen her knowledge on important topics for her development:

"Having been part of this learning process has been very rewarding for me. Now I have more knowledge than I already had. I am mainly grateful to my mentor, Selene Caballero, who enlightened me with her life experiences. I loved talking to her. I also thank my classmates and everyone who shared their knowledge in the sessions," added Ariana, 17.

The graduation was also attended by José Antonio Vargas, general manager of REYBANPAC, who during his speech motivated the young women to remain faithful to their life project:

"Life has good and bad moments but make the most of each stage of your life. If you put your heart on it, you will be able to accomplish what you set out to do. The second thing I would like to ask you to do is to share what you have learned with your friends and family so that now you can become a mentor as well. It is up to you to make this country better and better," said Vargas, who also thanked Plan International and the mentors for their time dedicated to the program.

For Besty Vinces, one of the mentors of the program, the experience with her mentees was very fruitful, as she was also able to strengthen her confidence and interpersonal skills. "I learned that active listening is fundamental to understanding the other person. As well as always giving positive feedback and at all times demonstrating empathy," she said.

"Imparting advice in both the personal and professional fields, sharing our experiences, and inspiring other women to continue on that same path was very rewarding. These types of responsibility programs are important, as they help the personal and professional development and growth of all those involved," added the Reybanpac employee.

Bryan Torres, coordinator of Plan International Los Rios expressed: "the mentors' experiences have been fabulous for their mentees, as each one always has a story to share that can be useful to them. This exchange has allowed the mentees to strengthen their life projects."

"Women Empowering Women" was a joint effort between Reybanpac, Wong Foundation, and Plan International to contribute to female empowerment and promote gender equality in rural communities in Ecuador.