Abdías Perez was just 9 years old when he joined Fotokids. He grew up in El Mezquital, a tough neighborhood in Guatemala where drugs and gangs were part of everyday life. Raised by his single mom, Abdías faced constant pressure to join a gang, like so many of the boys around him. But he found a different path—one that would change everything.

Berta studying for her law degree, working in human rights and has had her own radio program in Tzutuhil for Mayan women. In 2023 she ran for Mayor of Santiago Atilán, the first indigenous woman to do so.

Ericka joined Fotokids at 15, in a community where opportunities in the arts were scarce. There were no workshops or programs for young people interested in design, and many around her believed that pursuing art would never lead to a real career. Fotokids changed that. With training, access to materials, and a supportive environment, she discovered that design could open real doors for her future.

German was just 11 years old when he joined Fotokids. He grew up in Tierra Nueva, a violent and dangerous neighborhood in Guatemala City. His house was built on a narrow alley, and his single mother, with four children, covered it with a tin roof to make it their home.

Valeria joined Fotokids at age 15 through the Girls Life Skills Program. Fotokids provided her with both financial support through scholarships and, just as importantly, a safe space where she felt valued and understood.

Jonny Raxón was 13 when he first joined Fotokids. He grew up in a neighborhood controlled by gangs, and life was tough. Friendships often came with the risk of being pulled into crime, but discovering Fotokids gave him a new vision of the world beyond.