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A Special New Year’s Eve in the Coffee Cultural Landscape in 2018

Sustainable Tourism and Community Empowerment in the Coffee Cultural Landscape

Welcome to “Continuing the Path: A Commitment to Community Empowerment and Sustainability.” I am Juan David Agudelo, founder of Experiencia Cafetera, a sustainable tourism company in Colombia that, for over 10 years, has connected people from around the world with our rural communities, promoting responsible tourism and the preservation of the Coffee Cultural Landscape.

This journey has been marked by meaningful encounters, such as the one I had with the Thayan family and the Kingsley team, whose support has been key in the development of community projects that create real social impact. This article reflects our mission to strengthen rural communities and shape a sustainable future through education, collaboration, and social action.

A Meeting That Transformed Our Community

The journey of our foundation began with a simple yet powerful question from the Thayan family during their visit to Colombia: “How can we help?” Their genuine interest in the sustainable development of rural communities sparked a series of philanthropic efforts focused on improving the quality of life for the people of Pijao, Quindío.

On December 31, 2018, we welcomed the Thayan family into our community. Unlike many tourists seeking to disconnect from reality, they were driven by a sincere desire to make a positive impact. Thanks to their support, we strengthened our commitment to education and the well-being of rural communities.

We visited schools, engaged in discussions with teachers and students, and identified urgent needs. Since then, we have implemented numerous projects tailored to the changing demands of our people, always based on active listening and community participation.

Education in Pijao: A Challenge and an Opportunity

One of my most impactful memories was visiting a rural school in the hills of Pijao, Quindío. Despite leaking roofs and outdated books, the children radiated enthusiasm for learning, and their dreams of becoming coffee growers reflected their deep-rooted connection to the Coffee Cultural Landscape, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

The Birth of the Frailejones Foundation

In September 2023, with the support of the Kingsley team and the Thayan family, I founded the Frailejones Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development and education in rural communities in Colombia.

Our Mission and Vision

The Frailejones Foundation is inspired by Kingsley’s global experience in countries such as Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom. Our mission is to improve the quality of life in rural communities in Colombia by providing quality education, fostering community development, and promoting sustainable practices.

Our goal is to empower individuals and communities to achieve self-sufficiency and resilience, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future.

Our Values

  • Commitment: We work tirelessly to improve living conditions in rural communities.
  • Collaboration: We partner with schools, community leaders, and organizations to drive meaningful change.
  • Sustainability: We prioritize solutions that respect the environment and are economically viable.
  • Trust: We build relationships based on transparency and mutual respect.
  • Empathy: We strive to understand the needs of each community, ensuring tailored solutions.
  • Love: Our work is driven by love for people and nature.

Sustainable Tourism and Community Development in Colombia

Through sustainable tourism in the Coffee Cultural Landscape, we have created initiatives that allow travelers to connect with rural communities, promoting experiences that go beyond conventional tourism. Pijao, Colombia, with its natural beauty and rich coffee history, provides an ideal setting for fostering community-based tourism.

Every project we undertake aims to strengthen the social fabric by promoting rural education, environmental conservation, and community empowerment.

A Bright Future for the Coffee Cultural Landscape

As we move forward, our vision for the Frailejones Foundation continues to grow. We remain committed to expanding educational programs, sustainable development initiatives, and training opportunities for rural communities.

This is just the beginning of a journey filled with hope and action. With the support of partners, volunteers, and individuals committed to sustainability and the well-being of rural Colombia, we will continue sowing the seeds of change, one community at a time.

The History of Pijao: Overcoming Conflict and Natural Disasters

Pijao, Quindío, is a town with a history marked by resilience and rebirth. It has faced two crucial events that have shaped its path: the conflict with the FARC and the 1999 earthquake. Despite the devastating impact of these events, the community of Pijao has demonstrated unwavering resilience, becoming a symbol of hope and reconstruction.

Colombia, with its rich coffee-growing tradition, has witnessed decades of conflict that directly affected its coffee-producing regions. However, the Colombian coffee-growing spirit has never faltered, preserving a culture that is now recognized worldwide.

A Commitment to Rural Development and Peace

My name is Juan David Agudelo, and I am part of a generation committed to transforming the Colombian countryside. Since my teenage years, I have focused on empowering communities through NGOs, dedicating my weekends in 2007 in Bogotá to supporting people displaced by the armed conflict. Later, I studied Sociology at the University of Buenos Aires, which broadened my perspective on the social and economic challenges our rural communities face. However, I decided to leave my studies to embark on a project that would change my life and the lives of many in Colombia.

The 2016 peace agreement marked a turning point. Colombia entered a new stage of reconciliation, driving the revival of tourism in the Coffee Cultural Landscape and creating new economic opportunities. This was the moment when I returned to my country and developed coffee tours to connect farmers and consumers, fostering a deeper appreciation for the coffee tradition.

Building Peace Through Tourism and Activism

My involvement in sustainable tourism in Colombia allowed me to travel across the country, work directly with coffee growers, and understand firsthand their challenges and aspirations. Along this journey, I met inspiring individuals like Olga, Hugo, Ligia, and León, who trusted me and shared their knowledge about community development.

It was during this process that I met the Thayan family. Today, thanks to their support and that of Kingsley, we are transforming Pijao into a model for community tourism and sustainability. Where people once fled due to conflict, we now walk in peace and work towards the reconstruction of our communities.

Solidarity in Times of Crisis: The Impact of the Tierra Program

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought unprecedented challenges. During this crisis, the Thayan family and the Kingsley team extended their generous support to the Tierra Program, reaffirming their commitment to food security and community well-being.

Through this initiative, we were able to:

  • Provide skills, seeds, and tools for rural communities to grow their own food.
  • Distribute more than 50 phones to students so they could continue their remote education.
  • Donate thousands of masks, protecting our most vulnerable population.

These initiatives reinforced the importance of self-sufficiency and solidarity during times of crisis, demonstrating that collaboration and mutual support are key to community resilience.

A New Chapter for Pijao: Empowerment and Sustainable Development

Today, Pijao is experiencing a renaissance. With the support of allies like Kingsley and the Thayan family, we continue to drive projects in education, sustainable tourism, and rural development. The community has transitioned from a conflict-affected area to an example of reconstruction and progress.

As we move forward, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving the Coffee Cultural Landscape, empowering rural communities, and creating sustainable opportunities.

Frailejones Foundation: Inspiration, Resilience, and Commitment to Sustainable Development

A New Milestone in Community Empowerment

The Frailejones Foundation was officially established in 2023 after my visit to London, where I received support from the Kingsley team and, especially, from the Thayan family. This achievement is the result of four years of collaborative work focused on strengthening rural communities in Colombia and promoting environmental sustainability.

Connecting Continents: Frailejones Foundation and Lotus Children’s Foundation

Our work is based on an integral and community-driven approach. The Frailejones Foundation, operating in the Andean regions of Colombia, and the Lotus Children’s Foundation, based in Sri Lanka, share a common mission: to drive sustainable development and transform lives through education and social empowerment.

Both organizations draw inspiration from the emblematic flora of their respective regions, whose cultural and spiritual qualities reinforce the identity of our foundations.

Frailejones: A Symbol of Resilience in the Andean Páramos

The name Frailejones honors one of the most iconic species of the Andean páramo ecosystem. These plants play a key role in water regulation and biodiversity conservation. Their unique characteristics include:

  • Capturing water from the mist and slowly releasing it to nourish essential water sources.
  • High resistance to extreme conditions, representing the strength and resilience of Colombia’s rural communities.
  • Ecological and cultural importance, symbolizing the connection between nature and social well-being.

Naming our organization after the Frailejones is a way to recognize Colombia’s environmental richness, reaffirming our commitment to the sustainable management of natural resources and the conservation of the páramo ecosystem.

The Lotus: Inspiration and Growth in Adverse Environments

Similarly, the Lotus Children’s Foundation finds its identity in the lotus flower, a species with deep spiritual significance in many Asian cultures. The lotus symbolizes:

  • Purity and rebirth, as it blooms in murky waters without losing its beauty.
  • Growth in adversity, reflecting the ability of children and communities to overcome challenges.
  • Enlightenment and hope, fundamental values in the foundation’s mission to provide educational and developmental opportunities.

A Shared Vision for the Future

The spiritual and ecological visions of the Frailejón and the Lotus are deeply intertwined with the identity of our organizations. While Frailejones embody resilience and environmental balance in the Andes, the Lotus represents growth and transformation in Asia.

Despite the geographical distance, the Frailejones Foundation and the Lotus Children’s Foundation are united by a global cause: fostering inclusive, sustainable community development centered on education. By understanding and valuing the meaning of these natural symbols, we strengthen our mission to create a positive impact both locally and internationally.

Building a Sustainable Future

Our commitment to sustainable development and education continues to grow. The Frailejones Foundation seeks to expand its impact by collaborating with strategic partners to develop projects that promote:

  • The conservation of the páramo ecosystem.
  • Equal access to education in rural communities.
  • The social and economic empowerment of farming families.

As we move forward, we reaffirm our vision of a world where communities are resilient, opportunities are accessible, and sustainability guides every initiative.

Transforming Education in Rural Communities

Education as a Pillar of Peace and Community Development

The Classrooms for Peace Program is an initiative that represents a fundamental pillar of our mission for community empowerment and inclusive education. It was the first program we launched with funding from Kingsley, focusing on Pijao, a region that suffered the consequences of Colombia’s armed conflict. For years, many families were forced to abandon their homes, seeking safety in the outskirts of major cities. In this context, rural schools have become centers of hope, stability, and community rebuilding.

Beyond being spaces for learning, schools represent social unity and access to opportunities. Adequate educational infrastructure not only provides knowledge but also offers children and young people a sense of stability, security, and hope for the future.

La Palmera School: A Beacon of Hope in the High Mountains

In 2019, we launched our first major project at La Palmera School. This institution, located 3,000 meters above sea level, 1.5 hours from the town center, faced extremely challenging conditions. Due to the distance, eight children live at the school, as their homes are several hours away on horseback.

To improve their quality of life and enhance their academic performance, we achieved:

  • Rebuilding the school’s roof, ensuring safe and suitable learning conditions.
  • Providing new beds for the boarding children, improving their well-being and rest.

This project not only strengthened the school’s infrastructure but also increased students’ academic performance and enthusiasm, generating a positive and sustainable impact on their education.

El Espartillal School: Facing Change and Promoting Sustainability

Also in 2019, we extended our support to El Espartillal School, an institution located in an area that once depended on coffee farming but has since shifted to avocado production. While this transformation created new economic opportunities, it also brought environmental consequences, such as the excessive use of agrochemicals, which impact biodiversity—particularly bees, essential for coffee pollination.

Our intervention in this school aims to:

  • Mitigate the negative effects of agricultural change by providing environmental education strategies.
  • Strengthen the balance between agricultural production and local biodiversity conservation.

Through this project, we strive to restore a rural development model that harmonizes economic growth with ecosystem protection.

Francisco de Paula Santander School: Promoting Intercultural Education

Francisco de Paula Santander School has become a benchmark for inclusive education in the region. With Kingsley’s support, we successfully rebuilt an entire classroom, enabling the implementation of a special Ministry of Education program designed specifically for the Embera Chamí indigenous community.

Thanks to this initiative, the school now has:

  • Two separate classrooms: one for mestizo students and another adapted to Embera Chamí culture and language.
  • An ethnocentric educational approach, which respects cultural identity and strengthens inclusion.

This project marks a milestone in bilingual and intercultural education, ensuring that indigenous children receive an education that values and preserves their culture.

Before

After

Planting Hope and Building a Future of Peace

Each of these initiatives represents much more than improvements in school infrastructure. They are firm steps toward reconciliation, equity, and the creation of opportunities for future generations in Pijao.

With every renovated classroom, every child gaining access to a dignified education, and every strengthened community, we continue to consolidate a sustainable rural education model—where learning becomes the most powerful tool for transforming lives.

The Tierra Program: School Gardens and Food Security in Pijao

Transforming Education and Nutrition Through Sustainable Agriculture

The Tierra Program was born just before the pandemic, and since then, it has grown to become a fundamental pillar for food security and environmental education in Pijao. Community solidarity was key to its rapid development; all we needed were the right tools and seeds to get started. Today, thanks to funding from Kingsley, the program has changed the lives of many students in rural areas of Colombia.

Over the past year, the program has achieved:

  • Producing over 400 kg of fresh food, enriching school diets with essential vegetables.
  • Creating sustainable gardens within schools, fostering hands-on learning in ecological agriculture.
  • Providing students with tools and knowledge, promoting food autonomy and a sense of community.

Hands-On Education: Learning Through Cultivation

One of the most memorable moments of the program was the day we introduced the concept of school gardens to a group of students. Their eyes lit up with excitement as they discovered that they could grow their own food. This program not only combats child malnutrition but also sparks interest in sustainable agriculture in Colombia.

Expansion: First Urban Garden at Pijao Node

In December, in collaboration with university students, we launched the first urban garden at Pijao Node, equipped with 15 planting pots and crops such as carrots, Swiss chard, and lettuce. The process included:

  • Detailed planning and soil condition analysis in Armenia, Quindío.
  • Active student participation in planting, caring for, and maintaining the crops.
  • Learning from local agricultural experts, such as Ligia Villamil, who has extensive knowledge of medicinal plants in Pijao.

Testimonials on the Impact of the Tierra Program

“With the Frailejones Foundation, we bring gardens to rural schools, teaching children how to grow food and the potential of medicinal plants.”
— Ligia Villamil, community leader

“The school garden program has evolved. We are no longer just focused on school gardens; now it is crucial for children to take this knowledge home.”
— Hugo Murcia, Director of La Mariela School

Towards a Sustainable Future: Growth and Expansion

The Tierra Program continues to expand, strengthening food security in rural communities and promoting ecological agriculture in Colombia. The goal is for every student to take this knowledge home, contributing to a sustainable and resilient future.

Strengthening Alliances for Community Development

A Transformative Encounter with the Thayan Family and Kingsley

My trip to the United Kingdom was a meaningful experience that reinforced our commitment to community development in Colombia. The invitation from the Thayan family to meet the Kingsley team—who have been a fundamental pillar in our growth—marked a milestone in our project.

I have always had a deep interest in the history of the United Kingdom, especially in its thinkers and scientists. Visiting the museums of London, in the heart of the 18th-century Industrial Revolution, was incredibly inspiring. Observing the impact of technological innovations such as the steam engine made me reflect on how even small advancements in technology and education can generate a positive impact on our rural communities in Colombia.

I had the opportunity to visit the British Museum with Ewan, and we explored the city by bike, enjoying London’s dynamic cultural scene.

A Warm Welcome and a Committed Community

The Thayan family welcomed me with open arms into their home. It was a pleasure to share their incredible food and discuss our cultures and life experiences. I felt genuinely valued for my work in Colombia, reaffirming the importance of these international collaborations.

I want to extend a special thank you to Suranga, a brilliant mind and compassionate soul within Kingsley, for his attention and unwavering support. During my visit to Kingsley’s headquarters, I had the privilege of meeting the entire team—a diverse and committed group dedicated to improving lives globally.

Presenting Kingsley’s Impact in Colombia

Daya and Sumi asked me to give a presentation on our project in Colombia. I gathered photos and videos showcasing the positive impact of Kingsley’s funding on our initiatives. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with heartfelt congratulations and a true interest in continuing our collaboration. I am convinced that even the Colombian coffee I brought helped warm the atmosphere.

Connection with Kingsley’s Care Homes

Later, Suranga took me to visit several care homes. I prepared Colombian coffee and gave a lighter presentation for the residents—a rewarding and enriching experience. What impressed me most was the deep commitment of the staff to the well-being of the residents, reflecting Kingsley’s core values.

Talking with the workers allowed me to better understand the organization’s approach. As Daya had previously shared with me, Kingsley’s central mission is to provide quality care and improve people’s lives. This vision strongly resonates with our work in Pijao, where we seek to transform communities through empowerment and education.

Planning for the Future: A Path of Opportunities

At the end of the trip, Daya and Sumi asked me the same question they did in 2018: “What can we do to help you?”

I took the opportunity to share my ideas, and Daya listened attentively, offering insights from his experience in Sri Lanka. Together, we mapped out a strategic plan for the coming year, focusing on:

  • Supporting the young people we have helped in their transition to adulthood.
  • Expanding our educational and community development initiatives in Pijao.
  • Strengthening international alliances to further scale the impact of our programs.

Sumi, with her energy and vision, made me realize that with more planning and dedication, we can achieve even greater things.

This trip not only strengthened our relationship with Kingsley but also opened new opportunities to enhance our work in Colombia, ensuring a brighter future for rural communities.

Pijao Node Program: Empowering the Future of Rural University Students

A Space of Opportunities for the Youth of Pijao

The Pijao Node Program, located in Armenia, Quindío, is a transformative initiative designed to provide a supportive living environment for students from rural areas, allowing them to continue their higher education without the burden of worrying about housing and basic needs.

Originally known as the student house program, this project evolved into a connection hub between the Pijao community and the world, offering access to new academic and professional opportunities.

Overcoming Challenges: A High-Impact Project

When we first visited this student residence—initially established through a local government initiative in Colombia—we encountered numerous challenges. The building’s infrastructure required urgent repairs, and securing funds to cover essential needs was a priority.

However, thanks to the determination of the students, the support of our donors, and the collaboration of Pijao’s mayor, Jhon Jairo Gallego, we overcame these challenges and transformed this space into a thriving community where students can focus on both their studies and personal growth.

Key Achievements of the Pijao Node Program

Since its inception, the Pijao Node Program has reached significant milestones:

  • Implementation of an urban garden, providing fresh food for students.
  • Acquisition of essential equipment, including:
    • 8 computers
    • Desks and mattresses
    • Kitchen utensils
    • A standard printer and a 3D printer
  • Ensuring monthly meal support, offering three balanced meals per day with fresh vegetables, diverse proteins, and healthy carbohydrates.

These advancements have been possible thanks to the collaborative efforts of students, staff, and donors. Notably, Daya and Sumi played a crucial role in proposing the idea of working with graduates from rural schools, providing them with a support platform during their transition to higher education.

Adapting the Program to Students’ Needs

Each meeting with students has provided valuable insights into their aspirations and challenges, allowing us to continuously adjust and improve the program. These interactions have been key to envisioning the future of the program and expanding its reach to more young people.

Impact Stories: Luis Miguel and His Entrepreneurship in Industry 4.0

The impact of the Pijao Node Program is reflected in stories like that of Luis Miguel, a 3D design student. Before the foundation’s intervention, Luis Miguel faced numerous obstacles in pursuing his studies. Without access to the right technological tools, his academic development was severely limited.

Today, with a stable living environment and access to a 3D printer, he has successfully launched his own business in the multimedia and Industry 4.0 sector. His dreams of becoming a tech entrepreneur are now within reach, and I am confident that in a few years, he will have much to give back to his community.

Looking Ahead: Expanding and Strengthening the Program

The success of the Pijao Node Program is just the beginning. With more resources and support, we aim to expand this initiative, ensuring that more young people from rural communities can access higher education, technological training, and job opportunities.

As we continue to grow, we reaffirm our commitment to providing an optimal learning environment for the youth of Pijao, enabling them to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

Bonplandia Laboratory Program: Advancing Botanical Discovery and Scientific Education

A Scientific Innovation Hub for Youth

The Bonplandia Laboratory Program is an educational initiative designed to provide students and teachers with advanced scientific tools and resources, promoting research and innovation in the fields of botany and natural sciences.

The idea behind Bonplandia Laboratory emerged with the goal of creating a hands-on exploration space where students can actively engage in scientific research. Our objective is to go beyond traditional classroom teaching, offering students opportunities to conduct experiments and develop innovative solutions to environmental and social challenges.

Fostering Scientific Interest in Youth

We firmly believe in the importance of nurturing an early interest in science among children and young people. By involving them in scientific activities from an early age, we equip them with critical thinking and analytical skills. This approach enhances their education and prepares them for future roles as leaders in research and sustainable development.

Opportunities for Research and Sustainable Development

The Bonplandia Laboratory Program presents a unique opportunity to make significant contributions to scientific research in Colombia. By providing a well-equipped experimental environment, this program has the potential to drive innovative and sustainable research projects.

The biodiversity of Pijao’s natural surroundings offers an ideal space to:

  • Discover new species of flora and fauna.
  • Develop conservation practices and promote the sustainable use of natural resources.
  • Implement biotechnology projects focused on environmental sustainability.

A Knowledge Hub and Academic Collaboration Center

With the completion of the Bonplandia Laboratory, we are laying the foundation for a leading educational center in Colombia, attracting academics, researchers, and scientists. This space will facilitate knowledge exchange between experts and the local community, ensuring a long-term positive impact on education and sustainability.

I am convinced that this project will unveil the scientific potential of our region and inspire future generations to continue exploring and contributing to knowledge in botany, ecology, and sustainable development.

Alliances and Collaborations for a Sustainable Future

We have established strategic partnerships with national NGOs and the local government of Pijao, which has granted us the use of El Patio for the next four years. This space has been key in:

  • Conserving the genetic diversity of medicinal plants.
  • Preserving native forest species.
  • Developing educational programs in natural sciences.

These collaborations have been fundamental in expanding the program’s impact, ensuring its long-term sustainability and aligning it with the needs of the community. Currently, the construction of the Bonplandia Laboratory is in its final stage, consolidating itself as a leading center for education and research in Colombia.

Colombia’s Scientific Potential: A Path for the Future

I am convinced that Colombia’s natural wealth is one of its greatest opportunities for the future. This project will not only strengthen scientific research but also open pathways for the development of sustainable businesses based on biodiversity.

“One of their most promising projects is the Bonplandia Laboratory, dedicated to scientific research. This initiative has generated great expectations and a positive impact on the student community. Additionally, the foundation has worked on expanding food gardens, providing means for self-sustainability.”
— Olga Narváez, Community Leader

Nexus Future Program: Strengthening Education and Environmental Awareness in Rural Youth

Educational Opportunities for a Bright Future

The Nexus Future Program is an initiative designed to enhance educational opportunities for students in rural areas, providing key tools for their academic and personal development. Through extracurricular activities, we aim to prepare students for university admission and success in the professional world.

Our key activities include:

  • Personalized tutoring sessions to strengthen academic skills.
  • Study materials focused on improving performance in the ICFES exam.
  • Educational trips that promote experiential learning and connection with the natural environment.

Our goal is to significantly improve students’ grades and university admission opportunities while also developing their life skills and expanding their worldview.

Learning Through Experiences in Nature

To expand knowledge beyond the classroom, the program includes student trips to sites of high ecological and cultural value. These experiences are funded through our nutrition program during periods when schools are closed.

One of the key destinations is the Andean páramo, a vital ecosystem for water conservation and biodiversity in Colombia. These trips allow students to:

  • Connect with nature and understand the importance of its preservation.
  • Apply scientific knowledge in real-world environments.
  • Develop environmental awareness and understand the impact of sustainable tourism on local economies.

First Trip to the Chilí Páramo: A Milestone in Environmental Education

In July, the foundation organized its first trip to the Chilí Páramo, with students from the Student House Program participating. This trip was a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of one of Colombia’s most important ecosystems and learn about its role in water regulation and biodiversity conservation.

Impact Testimonials

“It was truly beautiful. I was very moved. I think it’s a wonderful place. Everyone should come and be part of the conservation of this ecosystem.”
— Michelle, student participant

Michelle, who studies Natural Sciences and Environmental Education, also highlighted the importance of the trip in her academic training:

“We can provide many tools for the conservation and protection of these beautiful ecosystems, which also supply water to many people.”

These testimonials reflect the positive impact of the program, helping students understand the value of the environment and the need to protect it.

Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Education

Throughout the trip, students learned about the delicate balance of the páramo ecosystem, its crucial role in water regulation, and how sustainable tourism can benefit local economies without compromising biodiversity.

This experience strengthened their commitment to environmental management, preparing them to become leaders in conservation and sustainability within their communities.

Commitment to the Future

The Nexus Future Program continues to expand, with the mission of providing young people with educational tools and transformative experiences that allow them to build a promising future.

With more learning opportunities and access to enriching experiences, we are empowering the next generation of environmental and academic leaders.

Expanding and Developing the Frailejones Foundation

Commitment to Growth and Social Innovation

As we move forward, our vision for the Frailejones Foundation, with the continued support of Kingsley, continues to evolve. We are committed to expanding our programs and maximizing the potential of our community by driving innovative initiatives that promote sustainable development, education, and local entrepreneurship.

Future Initiatives

1. Establishment of a Communication and Marketing Agency

We plan to create an agency focused on promoting sustainable businesses within the coffee region and across the country. This agency will provide multiple benefits:

  • Raising public awareness about social impact initiatives.
  • Encouraging community engagement and strengthening cultural identity.
  • Optimizing resources and creating networking opportunities.
  • Supporting local economic development, creating job opportunities and growth prospects for students at Pijao Node.

This project will establish the Frailejones Foundation as a leader in sustainability and social entrepreneurship, providing key tools to drive local initiatives and strengthen the economic ecosystem of the region.

2. Development of New Educational Workshops

At Pijao Node, we plan to introduce new training workshops focused on essential skills for the modern world, such as:

  • Creating an effective resume.
  • Job search strategies on the internet.
  • Key technological skills, including artificial intelligence, programming, and digital tools.

These training sessions will prepare students for entry into the global job market, promoting technological education and sustainable development in their communities.

3. Program to Integrate Graduated Professionals into the Community

We aim to design a program that facilitates the return of graduates to their community, providing them with opportunities to apply their knowledge in the development of new businesses and local enterprises.

This program will have a dual impact:

  • Job creation in a region with low-income opportunities.
  • Promotion of environmental awareness through sustainable business practices.

By prioritizing students from Pijao Node, we will ensure that local talent is nurtured and actively involved in leading these projects, fostering long-term sustainable growth and social change.

4. Expansion of Student Travel Experiences

We seek to expand our educational travel program to include more cultural and nature-immersion experiences across different regions of the country.

These trips will allow students to:

  • Broaden their global perspective while strengthening their local identity.
  • Explore Colombia’s cultural and natural heritage.
  • Engage in experiential learning, developing interpersonal and leadership skills.

Towards a Future of Opportunities and Sustainable Development

Our vision for the future is clear: to continue strengthening the Frailejones Foundation as a driving force for social and educational change.Through these initiatives, we aim to provide the necessary tools for our community to grow, thrive, and achieve long-term self-sufficiency.