Cristian S.

Cristian is 14 years old and comes from Aldea de Nubes 1. He attends the IMEBCO School in the center of San Martin Sacatepequez and is in his second year of middle school which he attends every afternoon. His favorite classes are physical education because he can combine physical effort with play. From the time that he discovered how much he enjoyed cooking at home, he has dreamed of becoming a chef, even though he believes not many students choose this career, and eventually having his own restaurant.
Cristian is the third of 5 children. Two of his older brothers are in high school and his younger brother is in elementary school. Their father is an agricultural worker locally, growing his own produce and then selling it local markets to support 7 family members. In the mornings, Cristian works in the fields with his father, studies and does his homework in the afternoons, and relaxes by playing soccer or listening to Christian music. He likes to play the trumpet. By going to church on Sundays, Cristian feels that he is serving God and his religious activities are an important part of his life along with spending time with his family which he says gives him a sense of true happiness. His favorite time of year is in the winter when rain comes and turns everything green.