Written by: Adolfo Yarhi, Executive Director
Eighteen years ago in Ciudad Vieja, a small town in Guatemala, a single act of kindness sparked a movement. In 2006, Dutch traveler Marten Dresen met Mirna, a little girl in Ciudad Vieja who was always barefoot. He bought her a pair of shoes. That simple gift made him realize something powerful: small actions can change lives, but education changes futures.
From that moment, Marten, his sister Annemiek, his friend Sander Wirken, and a group of friends in the Netherlands decided to act. By August 2007, Niños de Guatemala (NDG) was born, legally established as an organization committed to breaking the cycle of poverty through holistic and bilingual education.
In 2009, we opened our first school, Escuela Nuestro Futuro, followed by Escuela El Porvenir in 2012, and the Instituto Básico y Diversificado in 2015. Over the years, NDG has become more than schools. it is a community that nurtures the mind, heart, and future of every student.
Our education goes beyond textbooks. We teach academics, critical thinking, emotional resilience, social skills, good manners, and practical life lessons. We provide daily nutritious meals and emotional support, and we work hand in hand with families. Through our Hospitality Certification Program and partnership with The Good Hotel , we open doors to real job opportunities.
Today, NDG is officially an adult, 18 years of transforming lives. In these past 18 years we have worked with over twelve hundred students and their families. Some of our graduates are now pursuing university studies, technical training, or building their first work experiences, while staying connected to NDG’s community.
Reaching this milestone is both a celebration and a responsibility. Adulthood means bigger dreams, deeper commitments, and the maturity to face challenges with courage. Our mission remains the same, but our reach is growing.
We thank every student, family, teacher, employee, volunteer, donor, and partner who has walked this journey with us. Together, we have proven that when you invest in education, you do not just change one life, you change entire communities for generations.
Here’s to the next chapter of NDG’s story. We are ready for the future.
Happy anniversary Niños de Guatemala!!!
