Avilés Cordero has a strong track record of volunteerism in Puerto Rico through his ongoing work with the non-profit organization, Para La Naturaleza.
With the objective of promoting the academic, cultural and professional development of Puerto Rican students, the Conservation Opportunity platform facilitated the participation of Daniela Avilés Cordero in the International Agriculture Education Fellowship Program (IAEFP), an educational exchange experience held in Ghana during 2023.
Avilés Cordero graduated from the Cellular Molecular Biology program at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus, in 2022. Prior to her participation in the international program, she had developed a solid background in volunteerism and complementary training, including her work with the organization Para la Naturaleza and her certification as a citizen botanist.
According to Aviles, her connection with Conservation Opportunity came through a college classmate, which led her to learn about the IAEFP program, which offered opportunities in countries such as Ghana, Mexico and Guatemala. Although she was selected for all three destinations, she chose Ghana because of her interest in the country's history and culture, which she recognizes as part of her Afro-Caribbean roots.
Her experience began in July 2023 with a week of orientation at Texas A&M University, where she received preparation on 4-H organization, educational dynamics and community integration strategies. This stage allowed her to acquire tools to face challenges associated with cultural, linguistic and educational differences, especially in rural contexts.
During his time in Ghana, Avilés Cordero noted the similarities between the local flora and that of Puerto Rico, as well as the tropical climate, factors that facilitated his adaptation. However, he also faced challenges such as the long commute to obtain school materials, the diversity of dialects and the need to adjust to limited resources.
“These experiences strengthened my leadership and problem-solving skills, allowing me to contribute ideas that had a positive impact on the community,” said the young Puerto Rican.
With the completion of the program in June 2024, Aviles believes he gained a new professional perspective, a significant impact on the Ghanaian community and a renewed vision of his role in the sustainable and educational development of the country.
Report by: Emanuel Contreras Ortiz
Edited by Yamilet Aponte