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  • reto juvenil internacional, volunteer, internship latin america volunteering central america, volunteer work latin america, volunteering africa, volunteering south america
  • retojuvenil internacional, volunteer, internship latin america volunteering central america, volunteer work latin america, volunteering africa, volunteering south america
  • reto juvenil internacional, volunteer, internship latin america volunteering central america, volunteer work latin america, volunteering africa, volunteering south america.

CAPSTONE PROJECT Bagatzi Costa Rica 2026

PROJECT SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED

Creating Lasting Impact!

Stronger Communities, A More Sustainable Future

Thanks to the dedication of the University of Toronto Capstone Project Team, Winds of Change, and their generous professional support and donations, we have successfully completed the Bagatzi Costa Rica Project.

We are now closer to implement initiatives that will improve the quality of life for local families, strengthen Typha paper production, create sustainable economic opportunities, and contribute to environmental conservation.

OUR ACHIEVEMENTS

Equipment Repair and Rehabilitation We repaired processing motors, removed corrosion, and fully restored the paper production and mixing equipment.

Increased Production Efficiency We introduced more efficient tools and optimized production methods to improve productivity and product quality.

Preventive Maintenance Program We established a preventive maintenance program that includes regular cleaning, lubrication, inspections, and equipment monitoring to reduce downtime and prevent future failures.

Training 20 Local Youth (50% Women | 50% Men)We will provide hands-on training in Typha harvesting, paper production, equipment operation, and entrepreneurship to ensure long-term knowledge transfer and sustainability.

Reduced Operating Costs We will optimize production schedules during off-peak electricity hours and implemented energy-efficient manufacturing practices.

Business Development We will support marketing strategies, and access to new markets to increase sales and long-term business sustainability.

Sustainable Typha Harvesting We continue promoting the sustainable harvesting of Typha, helping protect the environment while controlling this invasive species in Palo Verde National Park.

Testimonial

  • Thank you so much for this opportunity to intern for and work for RJI. I had a wonderful time learning from you. Thank you for this amazing experience in the beautiful Costa Rica!


    Alice Liao, Michigan University.

  • RJI`s list of achievements is long and their impact within the youth and development arena in Central America is extensive.


    Sandra Eastwood, International Programs Manager, Youth Challenge Australia.-

  • We believe in the mission of Reto Juvenil. We support the work of Reto Juvenil. We will partner with Reto Juvenil. We are in solidarity with Reto Juvenil to make the world a better place.


    Virginia S. Williams, Associate Professor of History, Winthrop University, EEUU.

  • Earth Charter International has been extremely happy with RJI’s level of commitment to promote sustainability issues in their work in Central America. They put the Earth Charter comprehensively in action!


    Jaana Laitinen, International Youth Facilitator, Earth Charter International

  • RJI is a great agency to work with. This organization lives its mission, following its core values with great tenacity


    Bob Miller, Profesor of Social Work, UMichigan

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Global Partners

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