PWW Team Member Highlight: May 2019
Each month we are featuring a member of PWW’s staff. This gives you the opportunity to get to know our team a little better and gain an understanding about what makes them such a special part of PWW’s safe water programs.
PWW Team Member: Xenia Castellanos
PWW Office: Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Position within PWW: Lead Trainer for PWW’s WASH Training and Consulting Services (WASH = Water, Sanitation and Hygiene)
Years with PWW: 3
How did you first learn about PWW?
I heard from my neighbors that Pure Water for the World was looking for trainers, and I applied for the position.
What inspires you the most about the work you do?
When I observe the changes of behaviors (using healthy and safe water, sanitation and hygiene practices) in the families that receive our training.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I spend my days surrounded by people full of smiles and motivated when they receive our training.
What has been your favorite project…or your proudest moment?
I don’t have a favorite. I love all the trainings, and I am very proud of how the teachers of Guatemala and La Mosquitía (in particular) have replicated their knowledge, learned in our trainings, with their network of teachers, parents and students.
I am proud to know that our training program was in Spanish but is now also offered in Miskito (native language in La Mosquitía) and Cachiquel (native language in Guatemala). You get that feeling that you have broken even language barriers for families to expand their knowledge and implement these practices that are here to stay forever … creating long, lasting change.
What has been your greatest challenge?
The language in the indigenous communities: Miskito and Cachiquel.
What is your favorite thing about working for PWW?
My favorite things are:
- I am able to put into practice my passion for teaching,
- My co-workers,
- And, everyday I learn something new!
Tell us a little bit about your family.
I am a single parent and have raised my son (pictured) with the help of God, a lot of work, and my career. I am blessed by the Lord who has opened the doors for me.
My son’s name is Luis Carlos. He is 21 years old and graduates from the agricultural University in Catacamas Olancho next year. Additionally, my parents are still alive, I have my pastoral family, and the PWW team.
What is your favorite activity to do when you are not working?
I love to work with kids and teens through the Baptist Medical Dental International Ministry.
What is your favorite food?
Pasta.
Xenia pictured on left.
Anything else you want people to know about you?
I graduated from university with a degree in middle school education, and I also have experience with teaching higher education. I love to sing and play the piano and guitar. I am a very prudent person and like to create healthy environments where everyone has a good time and smiles. My favorite color are lively colors, such fuchsia and pink.
