The YouthCan! internship program at Siegwerk Guatemala is a great success

Guatemala

A virtual training session, a visit to the company, an interview with area managers and finally, a three-month internship at Siegwerk – this is how Maribel remembers her introduction to the labor market. Her proactive nature and ability to thrive in a positive work environment were key factors leading to her securing a permanent position in reception and administrative support in Siegwerk’s Guatemala office.

Earlier into this story, if one could imagine teenager Maribel, one would see a young leader engaging with peers in alternative care programs, accompanied by the SOS Children’s Villages Guatemala. Youth participation significantly shaped her character and sharpened her leadership and communication skills.

At 21 years old, Maribel transitioned into semi-independent living - a service designed to support young adults when moving from alternative care towards independence and community integration. Here, she received comprehensive support, including economic assistance, access to digital devices, and the opportunity to enroll in university. She earned a degree in psychology and language therapy, motivated by her desire to help vulnerable children. Her academic journey was complemented by joining the YouthCan! program in 2021, where she engaged in mentorship and training with the DHL Group. Her mentor's guidance was invaluable, especially because it boosted her confidence and provided practical tips for job interviews. This experience culminated in an internship with SiegwerkGuatemala and played a crucial role in her personal and professional development.

Moving to Guatemala City for her job was a big step for Maribel. This not only meant gaining financial stability, but also moving in with her sister and strengthening deeper family bonds. Now, fully immersed in her role at Siegwerk, she cherishes every aspect of her job and appreciates the support from her colleagues. If one could imagine the future for Maribel, one would see a corporate volunteer, leveraging her psycho-social expertise to support children and young people in vulnerable communities. 

Guatemala - The YouthCan! internship program at Siegwerk Guatemala is a great success

A virtual training session, a visit to the company, an interview with area managers and finally, a three-month internship at Siegwerk – this is how Maribel remembers her introduction to the labor market. Her proactive nature and ability to thrive in a positive work environment were key factors leading to her securing a permanent position in reception and administrative support in Siegwerk’s Guatemala office.

Earlier into this story, if one could imagine teenager Maribel, one would see a young leader engaging with peers in alternative care programs, accompanied by the SOS Children’s Villages Guatemala. Youth participation significantly shaped her character and sharpened her leadership and communication skills.

At 21 years old, Maribel transitioned into semi-independent living - a service designed to support young adults when moving from alternative care towards independence and community integration. Here, she received comprehensive support, including economic assistance, access to digital devices, and the opportunity to enroll in university. She earned a degree in psychology and language therapy, motivated by her desire to help vulnerable children. Her academic journey was complemented by joining the YouthCan! program in 2021, where she engaged in mentorship and training with the DHL Group. Her mentor's guidance was invaluable, especially because it boosted her confidence and provided practical tips for job interviews. This experience culminated in an internship with SiegwerkGuatemala and played a crucial role in her personal and professional development.

Moving to Guatemala City for her job was a big step for Maribel. This not only meant gaining financial stability, but also moving in with her sister and strengthening deeper family bonds. Now, fully immersed in her role at Siegwerk, she cherishes every aspect of her job and appreciates the support from her colleagues. If one could imagine the future for Maribel, one would see a corporate volunteer, leveraging her psycho-social expertise to support children and young people in vulnerable communities. 

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