I had a pretty busy last full day in Hondo! We left Santa Ana in the morning and went to Teguc to see the Mi Esperanza Beauty School graduation! The MEBS is attached to Lori's house, and not too long ago all of Mi Esperanza was located there (i.e. the office, the beauty school, the computer classroom, and the maquila). It was really awesome to see how excited the girls were, and to be able to celebrate their accomplishment with them. Some of the girls were as young as 15 or 16, so this beauty school experience puts them head and shoulders above some of their peers who haven't had this opportunity. The beauty school program is six months long - the first five months are in the classroom and in the salon, and the last month is an internship at an actual salon in Teguc. I think one or two of the girls got hired at salons right after their internships as well - how exciting!
Beauty School Graduates!
These two girls thought I was beautiful and really wanted their picture taken with me. Again, I think it's because they've never seen a fro.
After graduation was over, we grabbed a quick bite to eat and headed to the Mi Esperanza Center. I'm a procrastinator and had to get my homework done, but then afterwards I pitched in and helped to prepare for a 90 person group to come to the store. Lori nominated me to speak to the group about what Mi Esperanza is, and how I came to become an intern for them, and Janet seconded the nomination. I was a bit nervous, but I pulled it off!
Something exciting happened just before I had to speak too! A new headband had been created in the past couple of days and a name was needed for it. So the Jenny Lovell (friend of Mi Esperanza) suggested that it be called The Quinn Headband! How awesome is that!!!
The Quinn! I'm a good price too, so get one while supplies last!
Jenny Lovell, Janet, and me - I'm rockin' The Quinn!!
So overall, I'd say it was a very successful afternoon! Here are some picks of the store - it has had some improvements since I first got there.
Look how nicely The Quinn hangs on the back door... :-P
The Women of My Hope
The new Statement bag! I have the Statement wallet to match! Such an awesome project - well done EA Ward!
After the big group came through, we went back up the mountain to Santa Ana for a cookout with the group from Mississippi. I also had to pack for my trip home, and I actually fit all of my purchases in my suitcase! I had a great last night!
My girls - Janet and Lori - co-founders of Mi Esperanza and truly inspirational women!
They love me :-) I love them too!
No comments:
Post a Comment