16-year-old Jela Anabella has attended Mano Amiga Mariches since Kindergarten. She is an only child whose mother works as a teacher in a public school. They live in a humble, two bedroom home. The walls of their home are made of mud and sticks, while the roof is planks! Jela and her mother are thankful to also have a small bathroom inside.

When we asked Jela how Mano Amiga has impacted her life she said, “Mano Amiga has helped me go beyond the limits, to be persistent; they have taught me to help those in need and to know more about our country.”

Jela wants to be a lawyer and would like to obtain a degree in international studies. She wants to help people know what happens beyond Venezuela, and wants to fight for justice.