The 2025 PMPS Journey for Change Begins

Luz Angela G.
12 hours ago
2 min read

We’re thrilled to kick off the 2025 Peace Makers and Problem Solvers (PMPS) Journey for Change! This year, two new inspiring educators are joining the movement to help guide their students on this transformative journey.

Meet 2025's New Teachers in Colombia

Alix Patricia Ruiz Montes is a Financial Administrator who now teaches Mathematics at Diocesano Laura Montoya School in Chigorodó, Antioquia. Alix is passionate about helping students believe in themselves and grow as leaders. Her energy and dedication to student development are already making an impact.

"I am motivated to participate in the project because I recognize the importance of encouraging students in their leadership development and self-confidence."

~ Alix Montes

Also new to the team is Rubén Darío Corredor Valbuena, a Philosopher who teaches English and Social Sciences at Celestino Díaz School in Chigorodó, Antioquia. Rubén believes deeply in the power of education to build stronger, more just communities.

"Creating community impact through educational spaces and cultivating leadership in young people are my greatest motivations as a mentor in the PMPS program."

~ Rubén Valbuena

We are delighted to introduce these new leaders to our team and to welcome back our returning Colombian educators, Liliana Palacios at La Provincia School and Jhonier Rivas at Diocesano Laura Montoya. In the U.S., we are thrilled to continue our enduring collaboration with Marcia Snavelly at Poolesville High School in Maryland, a key element of our U.S. program.

A Focus on Colombia’s Urabá Region

This year's Colombian students come from three schools in the Urabá region—an area with a complex history shaped by conflict and displacement:

Celestino Díaz School – Rural Chigorodó
La Provincia School – Carepa
Diocesano Laura Montoya School – Chigorodó

Despite ongoing challenges, including limited access to education and high youth unemployment, the young people in this region continue to show strength, resilience, and a deep desire to lead change. These students will be leading the way as they design and implement community service projects rooted in their own local realities.

Building Bridges with Poolesville High School

On the U.S. side, we’re excited to continue our collaboration with Poolesville High School in Poolesville, Maryland. For years, students there have participated in PMPS, connecting with peers in Colombia to exchange ideas, reflect on shared values, and learn about the challenges and opportunities that exist in different parts of the world.