Today I bring forth a legacy; to Benque Viejo, the Cayo district, and even the Country of Belize. There are many activists, but Mrs. Elvira Duarte of age 78 is an outstanding elder who in the past did beyond expectations and continues to do so for her community.
To begin with, as soon as she graduated from Primary school, she was offered to work at the 4-H Development and formed the Benque Viejo 4-H Club. In this period she taught young people many agricultural skills and many other manual skills. Due to her commitment, in 1961; she was offered a Scholarship to Costa Rica where she broadened her knowledge and skills in arts and agriculture. She returned that same year to find that a disastrous hurricane had devastated many people. She immediately reported her service to help the people in need. She was later transferred to Corozal and Orange Walk districts where she helped rural areas by training them with agricultural skills, and manual techniques and having workshops with them to help them earn some extra money. She did this for 7 years and then retired to return to Benque Viejo.
Unfortunately, after a few years, her husband passed away, and was left widowed with 3 children. This did not stop her from continuing with her work. She applied to work as a Home Economic Officer where she was admitted to the position despite her Primary School Education only. She retired after 13 years but her work did not finish yet, since she started to motivate illiterate people teaching them manual skills like weaving, embroidery, sewing, painting, abilities in agriculture and started to assist many sick people.
Through her, the Help Age Centre was established and attained many grants so that the elderly could have their own place. She is the former president of the center but is still actively assisting anyone who needs her help.
Elvis Avila – Lens of Culture Student
