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Fabiana Rondón is a Caracas-based journalist who has devoted her career to chronicling the socio-economic challenges and humanitarian crises in Venezuela. Her reporting has been instrumental in bringing to light the struggles of the country's most vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. Rondón's work delves into the stark realities of extreme poverty and hunger in a nation paradoxically endowed with the world's largest proven oil reserves. She has provided comprehensive coverage on the effects of hyperinflation on both the economy and the daily lives of Venezuelans, as well as the severe malnutrition that affects a significant portion of the country's youth. Through her poignant narratives, Rondón has highlighted the personal stories of individuals grappling with the country's hardships, such as Julieta Escalona, a mother fighting against poverty and her children's malnutrition, and Aracelis Turmero, who is battling cancer and tuberculosis in the face of a crippling medication shortage. Her articles have also focused on the mass exodus of Venezuelans seeking better living conditions in other parts of Latin America. By documenting the challenges faced by breast cancer patients and the operational struggles of public hospitals, she has underscored the critical state of Venezuela's healthcare system. Rondón's journalism not only serves as a testament to the resilience of the Venezuelan people but also as a clarion call for the protection of health and nutrition rights amid economic adversity. Her work has been recognized for its depth and impact, as she continues to be a voice for those affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Venezuela.
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El Club de Reciclaje, un lugar donde los niños aprenden y se divierten
The Venezuelans behind Taller Neo, a recycling success in Caracas
Gabriel Santana and Alberto Alfonso founded Taller Neo in Caracas, a business that transforms waste into valuable objects for sale, such as plant pots known as 'materos', which have exceeded their expectations in popularity. Open daily, Taller Neo also educates students and environmental groups about recycling and environmental care. With plans to expand and introduce around 12 new recycled products, the founders emphasize the importance of recycling in Venezuela and their philosophy that in nature, there is no waste. They are open to collaborations and have a clear line for marketing their products.
Venezuelan synchronized swimming coach trains athletes with Down Syndrome in the USA
Isis Sánchez, a Venezuelan synchronized swimming coach, trains athletes with Down Syndrome in the United States. She was pivotal in establishing a category for these athletes in high-level competitions. Sánchez's journey began when she migrated from Venezuela in 2015 due to political and social crises. She reconnected with her passion for synchronized swimming after enrolling her daughter in classes. Sánchez worked with the Miami Down Syndrome Association of Swimming to form a recreational team, which later joined the Miramar Mermaids club. With the help of Gracie Noriega and the USA Artistic Swimming Federation, they created the 'Athlete with Disability' category. Sánchez's team has participated in competitions across Florida and internationally, inspiring the creation of similar teams. She aims to continue training and empowering individuals with Down Syndrome, instilling the belief that they can achieve anything regardless of their condition.
Venezuelan synchronized swimming coach trains athletes with Down Syndrome in the USA
Isis Sánchez, a Venezuelan synchronized swimming coach, trains athletes with Down Syndrome in the United States. She was pivotal in establishing a category for these athletes in high-level competitions. Sánchez's journey began when she migrated from Venezuela in 2015 due to political and social crises. She reconnected with her passion for synchronized swimming after enrolling her daughter in classes. Sánchez worked with the Miami Down Syndrome Association of Swimming to form a recreational team, which later joined the Miramar Mermaids club. With the help of Gracie Noriega and the USA Artistic Swimming Federation, they created the 'Athlete with Disability' category. Sánchez's team has participated in competitions across Florida and internationally, inspiring the creation of similar teams. She aims to continue training and empowering individuals with Down Syndrome, instilling the belief that they can achieve anything regardless of their condition.
How a Venezuelan doctor 'who handles creative emergencies' became part of NASA
Eliezer García Gazaui, a Venezuelan native from Caracas, combined his passions for medicine and creativity to become a spokesperson and creative for NASA. He studied medicine at the Universidad Central de Venezuela and later moved to the U.S. to study Special Effects and Creative Technologies at The Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia. His artistic side flourished on social media, leading to his involvement with SCADpro, an innovation studio at SCAD. This connection ultimately led to his role in NASA's communication team for the ICESat-2 mission, which measures ice melt and its global impact. García's story is a testament to the fulfillment of dreams through discipline and excellence.
How a Venezuelan doctor 'who handles creative emergencies' became part of NASA
Eliezer García Gazaui, a Venezuelan from Caracas, combined his passions for medicine and creativity to become a spokesperson and creative for NASA. He studied medicine at the Universidad Central de Venezuela and later moved to the U.S. to study Special Effects and Creative Technologies at The Savannah College of Art and Design. His artistic side, showcased on social media, led him to join SCADpro, an innovation studio, and eventually to the NASA communication team. García emphasizes the fulfillment of dreams through discipline and excellence and expresses pride in the success of Venezuelans in arts and sciences.
How a Venezuelan doctor 'who handles creative emergencies' became part of NASA
Eliezer García Gazaui, a Venezuelan native from Caracas, combined his passions for medicine and creativity to become a spokesperson and creative for NASA. He studied medicine at the Universidad Central de Venezuela and later moved to the U.S. to study Special Effects and Creative Technologies at The Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia. His artistic side flourished on social media, leading to his involvement with SCADpro, an innovation studio at SCAD. This connection ultimately led to his role in NASA's communication team for the ICESat-2 mission, which measures ice melt and its global impact. García's story is a testament to the fulfillment of dreams through discipline and excellence.
The Venezuelans behind Taller Neo, a recycling success in Caracas
Gabriel Santana and Alberto Alfonso founded Taller Neo in Caracas, a business that transforms waste into valuable objects for sale, such as plant pots, which have exceeded their expectations in popularity. Open daily, Taller Neo also educates students and environmental groups about recycling. The founders emphasize the importance of recycling in Venezuela and plan to expand their product range and business. They are open to collaborations and have a clear market strategy for their sustainable products.
Daniel Blanco, the Venezuelan migrant who promotes Chilean tourism
Daniel Blanco, a Venezuelan migrant passionate about tourism, emigrated to Chile in 2016 and became the first Venezuelan certified as a tour guide in the country's most important national park, Torres del Paine. He founded Expedición Miranda in August 2019, a Venezuelan tourism company promoting the Magallanes and Antarctic Region's attractions. Blanco's efforts have attracted both Venezuelan migrants and Chileans to explore the park, with his tours offering a range of activities. He plans to relaunch his tourism website, participate in more tourism courses, and eventually return to Venezuela to develop tourism businesses in his home state.
Daniel Blanco, the Venezuelan migrant who promotes Chilean tourism
Daniel Blanco, a Venezuelan migrant passionate about tourism, emigrated to Chile in 2016 and became the first Venezuelan certified as a tour guide in the country's most important national park, Torres del Paine. He founded Expedición Miranda in August 2019, a Venezuelan tourism company promoting the Magallanes and Antarctic Region's attractions. Blanco's efforts have attracted both Venezuelan migrants and Chileans to explore the park, with his tours offering a range of activities. He plans to relaunch his tourism website, participate in more tourism courses, and eventually return to Venezuela to develop tourism businesses in his home state.
Venezuelan Tattoo Artist Darwin Enríquez Takes His Art to Another Level with Artificial Intelligence
Darwin Enríquez, a Venezuelan tattoo artist based in New York, has integrated OpenAI's artificial intelligence into his tattooing process, enhancing his designs and offering unique, personalized tattoos to his clients. With over 15 years of experience, Enríquez has always sought innovation in his field. He uses various techniques, including hand-drawing, 3D technology, image manipulation with Photoshop, and photogrammetry. His work with AI has been well-received by clients and colleagues, and he plans to continue pursuing excellence and originality in his art, potentially incorporating augmented reality and holograms in the future. Enríquez also aims to share his knowledge with emerging artists through workshops and conferences.
Venezuelan Tattoo Artist Darwin Enríquez Takes His Art to Another Level with Artificial Intelligence
Darwin Enríquez, a Venezuelan tattoo artist based in New York, has integrated OpenAI's artificial intelligence into his tattooing process, enhancing his designs and offering unique, personalized tattoos to his clients. With over 15 years of experience, Enríquez has always sought innovation in his field. He uses various techniques, including hand-drawing, 3D technology, image manipulation with Photoshop, and photogrammetry. His work with AI has been well-received by clients and colleagues, and he plans to continue pursuing excellence and originality in his art, potentially incorporating augmented reality and holograms in the future. Enríquez also aims to share his knowledge with emerging artists through workshops and conferences.
Celebrations Return to Venezuela for the Nazarene of St. Paul
The Nazarene of St. Paul, a figure deeply revered for about 300 years in Venezuela, is celebrated once again at the Basilica of Santa Teresa in Caracas after a four-year hiatus during Holy Week. The festivities, which include 12 masses over 15 hours, are marked by a festive atmosphere filled with faith and spirituality. Devotees attend to fulfill promises, give thanks for health, and pray for the prosperity and peace of Venezuela. Personal stories of miracles and gratitude are shared by parishioners, reflecting the cultural and religious significance of the event.
Celebrations Return to Venezuela for the Nazarene of St. Paul
The Nazarene of St. Paul, a figure deeply revered for about 300 years in Venezuela, is celebrated once again at the Basilica of Santa Teresa in Caracas after a four-year hiatus during Holy Week. The festivities, which include 12 masses over 15 hours, are marked by a festive atmosphere filled with faith and spirituality. Devotees attend to fulfill promises, give thanks for health, and pray for the prosperity and peace of Venezuela. Personal stories of miracles and gratitude are shared by parishioners, reflecting the cultural and religious significance of the event.
Rulos Venezuela: A Movement that Claims the Afro Community
Paulette Abdallah, a 30-year-old Venezuelan, founded Rulos Venezuela, a movement to reclaim Afro-descendant identity in Venezuela, after experiencing cultural and phenotypic differences in Argentina and Brazil. Initially an Instagram account to educate on the subject, it has grown into a community of nearly 25,000 followers, offering hair care services and workshops on cultural identity and self-love. Rulos Venezuela operates without institutional support, relying on volunteers to reach areas outside Caracas. Abdallah emphasizes the need to address implicit racism in Venezuela and plans to expand the movement's reach and establish a formal foundation.
Venezuelan diaspora popularizes baseball in Peru
José Ramón Olmedo, a Venezuelan immigrant in Peru, realized his dream of creating a baseball academy, Astros de San Juan de Lurigancho, in Lima in 2020. Despite baseball not being popular in Peru, the academy has grown to about 70 children, both Venezuelan and Peruvian, across five categories and two locations. Olmedo's team has won championships in 2022, and he has created an elite academy with the goal of developing players for Major League Baseball. Collaborators Nicolás Herrera and Juan Urquía are crucial to the academy's success. Olmedo expresses gratitude to Peru for the opportunity to fulfill his dream and plans to continue promoting baseball in the country.
Venezuelan diaspora popularizes baseball in Peru
José Ramón Olmedo, a Venezuelan immigrant in Peru, realized his dream of creating a baseball academy, Astros de San Juan de Lurigancho, in Lima in 2020. Despite baseball not being popular in Peru, the academy has grown to about 70 children, both Venezuelan and Peruvian, across five categories and two locations. Olmedo's team has won championships in 2022, and he has created an elite academy with the goal of developing players for Major League Baseball. Collaborators Nicolás Herrera and Juan Urquía are crucial to the academy's success. Olmedo expresses gratitude to Peru for the opportunity to fulfill his dream and plans to continue promoting baseball in the country.
A Venezuelan promotes art and ecology with his murals
Venezuelan artist Oscar Olivares has been creating ecological murals using bottle caps, a technique inspired by pointillism, which he began after a proposal by Okospiri and the Movimiento de Arquitectos del Futuro in 2019. His work has spread across Venezuela and internationally to Mexico and Saudi Arabia, with eight murals completed in 2022 alone. Olivares created the world's largest bottle cap mural in Guatire, which is yet to be certified by Guinness World Records due to budget constraints. His art has been showcased at the Carrousel du Louvre Art Fair in Paris and has had a positive impact on communities, including the Cota 905 area known for violence. Olivares, who is self-taught and left university to pursue his own learning path, plans to explore new materials and techniques in Europe in 2023.
A Venezuelan promotes art and ecology with his murals
Venezuelan artist Oscar Olivares has been creating ecological murals using bottle caps, a technique inspired by pointillism, which he began after a proposal by Okospiri and the Movimiento de Arquitectos del Futuro in 2019. His work has spread across Venezuela and internationally to Mexico and Saudi Arabia, with eight murals completed in 2022 alone. Olivares created the world's largest bottle cap mural in Guatire, which is yet to be certified by Guinness World Records due to budget constraints. His art has been showcased at the Carrousel du Louvre Art Fair in Paris and has had a positive impact on communities, including the Cota 905 area known for violence. Olivares, who is self-taught and left university to pursue his own learning path, plans to explore new materials and techniques in Europe in 2023.
Retired Teachers in Venezuela: Forced to Return to the Classroom or Find Another Profession
In Venezuela, retired teachers are severely affected by the devaluation of the bolívar and low salaries, forcing many to return to teaching or seek alternative employment. Active and retired educators have protested for years, demanding higher wages and a new collective contract from the Ministry of Education. Retired teachers, like Luis López, find their pensions insufficient, leading them to pursue other jobs. Raquel Figueroa of the UDSE highlights the dire conditions of retired educators and calls for the government to fulfill its constitutional obligations. The government, represented by Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, blames US sanctions for the economic hardships but promises that funds are directed to workers. The educational sector remains divided, with some supporting President Maduro and others continuing to demand improved conditions.
Retired Teachers in Venezuela: Forced to Return to the Classroom or Find Another Profession
In Venezuela, retired teachers are severely affected by the devaluation of the bolívar and low salaries, forcing many to return to teaching or seek alternative employment. Active and retired educators have protested for years, demanding higher wages and a new collective contract from the Ministry of Education. Retired teachers, like Luis López, find their pensions insufficient, leading them to pursue other jobs. Raquel Figueroa of the UDSE highlights the dire conditions of retired educators and calls for the government to fulfill its constitutional obligations. The government, represented by Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, blames US sanctions for the economic hardships but promises that funds are directed to workers. The educational sector remains divided, with some supporting President Maduro and others continuing to demand improved conditions.
Inflation forces Venezuelans to buy Christmas dish ingredients in advance
Venezuelans are buying ingredients for their traditional Christmas dish, hallacas, months in advance due to soaring inflation and currency devaluation. Despite stagnant wages, people like Virginia Rivero and Dilia Flores are planning and purchasing items like olives, capers, and wine early to avoid higher costs later. The annual inflation rate reached 173% according to the Observatorio Venezolano de Finanzas, while the Central Bank of Venezuela reported a slightly lower rate. The practice of early purchasing is becoming increasingly common as citizens strive to maintain their cultural traditions amidst economic hardship.
Inflation forces Venezuelans to buy Christmas dish ingredients in advance
Venezuelans are buying ingredients for their traditional Christmas dish, hallacas, months in advance due to soaring inflation and currency devaluation. Despite stagnant wages, people like Virginia Rivero and Dilia Flores are planning and purchasing items like olives, capers, and wine early to avoid higher costs later. The annual inflation rate reached 173% according to the Observatorio Venezolano de Finanzas, while the Central Bank of Venezuela reported a slightly lower rate. The practice of early purchasing is becoming increasingly common as citizens strive to maintain their cultural traditions amidst economic hardship.
Venezuelan Daniela Padrón feels 'absolutely a winner' at the Latin Grammys
Venezuelan violinist Daniela Padrón, at 35, was nominated for the Latin Grammy in the Best Instrumental Album category, becoming the second woman in history to be nominated in this category. The nomination itself made her feel like an absolute winner. Her album 'Ella,' created with Cuban pianist Glenda del E, pays tribute to Latin American women's music across various genres and eras. Despite not winning, Padrón feels honored and sees the nomination as a call to attention to the lack of women in the category, though she notes a positive trend in the Best New Artist category. Padrón, who emigrated to the U.S. in 2017, credits her success to her Venezuelan roots and the opportunities in the U.S. She dreams of returning to Venezuela one day and continues to work to represent her country proudly.
Genessi Pinto, a Venezuelan Migrant in the World's Most Important Cheese Contest
Genessi Pinto, a 27-year-old Venezuelan migrant in Peru, has transformed her career from industrial relations to becoming a cheesemonger, discovering her passion for cheese. With only five years in the field, she has been invited to be a judge at the World Cheese Awards, making her the first Venezuelan to participate in the event. Pinto credits her success to her work at The Cheese Corner, a unique store in Latin America with over 110 varieties of cheese, and to social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where she shares her knowledge about artisanal cheeses. She aspires to continue exploring European cheese-making and dreams of creating her own cheese and cheesery in the future.
Genessi Pinto, a Venezuelan Migrant in the World's Most Important Cheese Contest
Genessi Pinto, a 27-year-old Venezuelan migrant in Peru, has transformed her career from industrial relations to becoming a cheesemonger, discovering her passion for cheese. With only five years in the field, she has been invited to be a judge at the World Cheese Awards, making her the first Venezuelan to participate in the event. Pinto credits her success to her work at The Cheese Corner, a unique store in Latin America with over 110 varieties of cheese, and to social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where she shares her knowledge about artisanal cheeses. She aspires to continue exploring European cheese-making and dreams of creating her own cheese and cheesery in the future.
From USB to Google: The Success of a Venezuelan in the Tech Industry
Alejandro Flores Velazco, a 30-year-old Venezuelan, has achieved his long-time goal of working at Google. Born in Caracas and raised in Margarita Island, he pursued a degree in Computer Engineering at Universidad Simón Bolívar (USB), graduating in 2014. After working as a teaching assistant at USB, he completed his Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Maryland, College Park, which took seven years. His internship at Facebook in 2019 opened his eyes to industry opportunities, leading to his current role as a software engineer at Google, working on YouTube Search's recommendation system. Flores takes pride in his Latin representation in the tech industry and does not rule out a future return to academia to teach.
From USB to Google: The Success of a Venezuelan in the Tech Industry
Alejandro Flores Velazco, a 30-year-old Venezuelan, has achieved his long-time goal of working at Google. Born in Caracas and raised in Margarita Island, he pursued a degree in Computer Engineering at Universidad Simón Bolívar (USB), graduating in 2014. After working as a teaching assistant at USB, he completed his Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Maryland, College Park, which took seven years. His internship at Facebook in 2019 opened his eyes to industry opportunities, leading to his current role as a software engineer at Google, working on YouTube Search's recommendation system. Flores takes pride in his Latin representation in the tech industry and does not rule out a future return to academia to teach.
Author of the 'Hyperinflation Dress': behind it is the story of millions of Venezuelans
Katherine Hasegawa, a Venezuelan residing in England, created the 'Hyperinflation Dress' to raise awareness of the economic crisis in Venezuela. The dress, made from devalued Venezuelan currency, symbolizes the deteriorating quality of life due to hyperinflation. It was exhibited at the Gabinete Real de Monedas de Estocolmo and the Anglia Ruskin University. Hasegawa's work has been recognized for its educational and inspirational value, and she plans to continue showcasing her art to highlight the crises in Venezuela.
Author of the 'Hyperinflation Dress': behind it is the story of millions of Venezuelans
Katherine Hasegawa, a Venezuelan residing in England, created the 'Hyperinflation Dress' to raise awareness of the economic crisis in Venezuela. The dress, made from devalued Venezuelan currency, symbolizes the deteriorating quality of life due to hyperinflation. It was exhibited at the Gabinete Real de Monedas de Estocolmo and the Anglia Ruskin University. Hasegawa's work has been recognized for its educational and inspirational value, and she plans to continue showcasing her art to highlight the crises in Venezuela.
David Mantilla: Venezuelan in the US Navy Seeking to Inspire His Compatriots
David Mantilla, a 38-year-old Venezuelan, recounts his journey from growing up in a poor neighborhood in Caracas to serving in the US Navy. Despite never imagining a military career, Mantilla overcame early hardships and a challenging immigration status to join the Navy at 23. His service included a year in Afghanistan in 2008 and roles such as a Pentagon custodian. Mantilla, now a sergeant of arms and firearms instructor, has also graduated in cybersecurity and is nearing completion of his master's degree. He hopes his story will motivate fellow Venezuelans to pursue their goals regardless of their background.
David Mantilla: Venezuelan in the US Navy Seeking to Inspire His Compatriots
David Mantilla, a 38-year-old Venezuelan, recounts his journey from growing up in a poor neighborhood in Caracas to serving in the US Navy. Despite never imagining a military career, Mantilla overcame early hardships and a challenging immigration status to join the Navy at 23. His service included a year in Afghanistan in 2008 and roles such as a Pentagon custodian. Mantilla, now a sergeant of arms and firearms instructor, has also graduated in cybersecurity and is nearing completion of his master's degree. He hopes his story will motivate fellow Venezuelans to pursue their goals regardless of their background.
Venezuelan Parents Modify Traditions Amid Crisis to Celebrate Children's Day
Due to the ongoing economic crisis in Venezuela, parents are altering their Children's Day celebrations to accommodate tighter budgets. Despite a silent economic recovery, many still struggle with basic expenses, making traditional gifts and outings unaffordable. The inflation rate in June reached 14.5%, the highest this year, with a basic family basket costing $380, according to the Observatorio Venezolano de Finanzas. Parents like Daniela León, Grezlys a Landaeta, and Mila Ponte are opting for less costly celebrations such as family gatherings, special meals, or enjoying free public parks instead of expensive activities like going to the cinema.
Why migrants who made Venezuela their home decided to stay despite the crisis
Despite Venezuela's economic, political, and social crisis, which has led to over five million Venezuelans migrating, some migrants who previously settled in Venezuela have chosen to stay. The UNHCR reports the number of Venezuelan migrants and refugees could reach seven million next year. The article shares personal stories of migrants from Colombia, Spain, Argentina, and Lebanon who have made Venezuela their home, discussing their experiences, cultural integration, and reasons for not returning to their countries of origin despite the challenges faced in Venezuela.
Ají Dulce: A Venezuelan Gastronomic Proposal in Paris
Venezuelan journalist Daniela Aldrey, who moved to Paris after leaving her country in 2008, founded Ají Dulce, a restaurant that offers traditional Venezuelan cuisine. The venture, which started as a food truck, was born out of nostalgia for her homeland and a desire to connect with her roots. The menu features arepas, tequeños, cachapas, and other Venezuelan dishes. The majority of the clientele are French, but Latin Americans also frequent the restaurant. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, which forced a temporary closure and delayed the opening of a second location, Aldrey remains optimistic about the future of Ají Dulce.
Venezuelan seeks Guinness Record after playing violin at Egyptian pyramids
Ramón Velázquez, a Venezuelan violinist, has sought to make history by becoming the first person to play a classical violin piece inside an Egyptian pyramid. He performed Mozart's La Lacrymosa at the Red Pyramid of Dashur and has submitted a record claim to Guinness World Records. Velázquez, who studied in Switzerland and is now fully dedicated to the violin, sees this as part of his journey to explore and perform in uncharted locations around the world.
The coronavirus according to Venezuelan children
The coronavirus pandemic has led to the suspension of school classes and all recreational and sports activities, causing many children in Venezuela to be confined at home and exposed to more information than usual. Initiatives have emerged to help parents and children better cope with the confinement during the COVID-19 crisis.
Venezuelan Women Challenge Shortages to Survive Breast Cancer
In Venezuela, women like Grecia Solís, Argelia Díaz, and Melania Carpio are facing immense challenges due to the country's healthcare crisis, particularly in treating breast cancer. With public hospitals lacking supplies and equipment, patients are forced to seek expensive private care or rely on aid from family and NGOs. The Sociedad Anticancerosa de Venezuela reports about 4,700 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, and the lack of official data since 2012 exacerbates the issue. Medical organizations highlight the dire state of health services, with a majority of radiology services inoperative and a severe shortage of medications. Patients share their personal struggles and reliance on faith to cope with the situation, as they navigate a healthcare system in disarray.
Aging in Venezuela: How does a pensioner survive with 40,000 bolivars a month?
Venezuela's elderly face severe hardships with pensioners struggling to survive on 40,000 bolivars a month amidst a backdrop of 702,521% inflation and widespread multidimensional poverty. The NGO Convite reported that seniors are losing 1-2 kilos monthly due to inadequate diets. With the minimum wage estimated at $1.96 a month, far below the World Bank's extreme poverty threshold of $1.96 a day, the economic crisis is exacerbated by a mass exodus of citizens to neighboring countries. The Venezuelan Institute of Social Security counts over 4.2 million pensioners, while the Coalition of Organizations for the Right to Health and Life (Codevida) has reported to the UN that 87% of the population lives in poverty, with 60% in extreme poverty. The IMF forecasts a 1,000,000% inflation rate and an 18% drop in GDP for Venezuela by the end of the year.
Aracelis Turmero: Debating Between Food and Medicine
Aracelis Turmero, a 35-year-old mother of three living in Petare, Venezuela, struggles with cancer and tuberculosis without access to food or medicine since January 2017. The 90% scarcity of medications, as reported by the Pharmaceutical Federation, forced her to abandon chemotherapy. Codevida's figures show a 75% disappearance of treatments for chronic diseases in Venezuela, leading to minimal care for such conditions. Francisco Valencia, director of Codevida, states that this shortage is lethal. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and Human Rights Watch have documented the severe shortages of medicine and food, with basic medication for common illnesses exceeding 80% unavailability, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis since 2014.
Julieta Escalona: 'My boy died of hunger'
Julieta Escalona, a mother of seven living in a poor neighborhood in Caracas, Venezuela, has faced the severe challenge of keeping her children fed amidst the country's food crisis. Despite her efforts, one of her sons died from severe malnutrition a month ago. The situation reflects the alarming increase in child malnutrition in Venezuela over the past 15 years. A study by Cáritas International published in January revealed that over 48% of children under five are malnourished or at imminent risk. In 2017, five to six children died weekly from malnutrition. The FAO's preliminary data for 2017 indicates worsening hunger in Venezuela, exacerbated by hyperinflation and economic collapse.
Luis Medina: 'Neither breakfast nor lunch'
Luis Medina, a one-legged disabled resident of Petare in Caracas, Venezuela, often skips breakfast and lunch, sometimes eating only once a day. The food scarcity crisis in Venezuela is intensifying, with 62% of Venezuelans living in extreme poverty according to a study by Encovi, conducted by three Venezuelan universities and published in March 2018. The study also found that Venezuelans lost an average of 11 kilograms in 2017. With an inflation rate of 4068% reported by the IMF, Venezuelans struggle to afford food, leading to empty refrigerators and increased rates of extreme poverty despite the country's vast oil reserves.
Once en esta casa venezolana se alimentan con dos medios sueldos. El drama de una madre por sacar a su hija de la desnutrición.
The article discusses the economic and nutritional struggles faced by a Venezuelan family, particularly focusing on a mother's efforts to overcome her daughter's malnutrition. It highlights the challenges of subsisting on inadequate income in a country facing economic hardships. The story sheds light on the broader issue of food insecurity in Venezuela and the impact it has on families, especially on the health and well-being of children.
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