On March 20, 2026, in the city of Quevedo, Ecuador, one of those moments took place during the Inspirational Women of the Year ceremony, where Peruvian leader Flor Reaño Segura was recognized with the Latin American Women’s Leadership Award. It was a beautiful and well-deserved recognition, but more than that, it felt like a reflection of something much bigger than a single moment or achievement.

Because leadership like this is never about one day or one event, it is built over time through relationships, through showing up even when it’s difficult, and through a deep commitment to community. It lives in the everyday work that often goes unseen, in the spaces where trust is built slowly, and in the decisions that prioritize collective growth over individual recognition.

The ceremony, organized by the Escuela de Formación From Confinement to Empowerment, brought together women and leaders from across Ecuador and Peru, each carrying their own experiences and stories into the space. What stood out most was not just the recognition itself, but the shared understanding that the work behind it is ongoing and deeply rooted in local realities.

Flor’s leadership reflects that in a very real way. Her work has always been grounded in community, focused on creating opportunities for women to not only participate, but to lead in ways that feel meaningful and sustainable. It is the kind of leadership that doesn’t seek visibility, but instead creates it for others, opening doors and building pathways that didn’t exist before.

To see that kind of work recognized at an international level matters, not because of the spotlight, but because of what it affirms. It affirms that the quiet, consistent work happening within communities is valuable. It affirms that leadership shaped by care, by lived experience, and by a commitment to others is something worth honoring.

At Heart-Links, we often speak about walking in solidarity and learning from those who are already leading change within their own contexts, recognizing that they hold the knowledge, the relationships, and the understanding needed to create lasting impact. Moments like this feel closely connected to that way of working, as they highlight the importance of recognizing and uplifting leadership that is already deeply embedded in community.

This recognition is not an endpoint, but part of a much longer story that continues to unfold through the work itself, through the people involved, and through the impact that carries forward into communities. It is a reminder that while moments like these are important, what matters most is everything that comes before and everything that continues after.

We celebrate Flor Reaño Segura not only for this recognition, but for the work that led to it and the work that continues beyond it. Because when women lead with purpose, they create change that reaches far beyond a single moment, shaping communities in ways that last.

Our team visited all three regions where Heart-Links’ partners work: Cajamarca, in the northeastern Andes; the Zaña Valley, in the central coast lowlands; and the Chiclayo Metropolitan Area, also in the central coast lowlands, one hour south from Zaña.

In Cajamarca, we met with the volunteers who run the Rural Libraries Network, a 54-year-old association that supplies books to almost 300 remote libraries across Cajamarca and adjacent provinces. In addition to publishing books, the network promotes literacy and records and preserves traditional knowledge and culture. A principle tool is the Enciclopedia Campesina, a project financed by Heart-Links. We stayed at the Rural Libraries guesthouse in Cajamarca. The building is also the home of the main library, offices and meeting rooms.

Also in Cajamarca is ACIES, a community development organization that works in the impoverished city neighborhood of Quiritimayo. In the Quiritimayo Cultural Centre, ACIES offers an afterschool program that includes educational support, ecological workshops and cleanups, reading circles, writing groups, and art classes. ACIES also works with women, delivering workshops in mental health self-care and artisanal training. ACIES runs similar programs in the rural village of Pomabamba, as well an alternative school for impoverished children and youth, where they also learn about water conservation, gardening, and raising small animals.

In Zaña, we met the members of Latidos. In communities up and down the Zaña Valley, this association runs afterschool programs, breakfast and lunch programs, mental health workshops, entrepreneurial training for women and reforestation and forest protection. Latidos is strongly involved in the local business community, including agrobusiness, and works with them to practice corporate social responsibility, such as hiring locally. We stayed in the lovely Latidos guesthouse.

Our other partner in Zaña is Madre Oliva Association. They run an afterschool program in the rural hamlet of Nuevo Mocupe, where children receive educational support and recreation. The association also delivers food aid, clothing, medication and mental health training and counselling  to approximately 20 vulnerable families.

Finally, we went to the bustling metropolis of Chiclayo, and stayed in a charming modest downtown hotel. We first met with members of Centro Esperanza. This agency runs numerous programs from their Chiclayo office and premises, but the program Heart-Links supports is in Coloche, a rural community in Lambayeque. There, Centro Esperanza has started a women’s farming collective called MUFUM (Women for a Better Future). The women of MUFUM raise and market fast-growing guinea pigs. Centro Esperanza has provided production training, ecological workshops, leadership development and mental health programs. The project is thriving.

Our final visit was with Centro Santa Angela. Founded 41 years ago by the Ursuline Sisters of Chatham, the centre promotes ecological communities in the impoverished urban district of José Leonardo Ortiz, assisting local residents to rescue parkland, develop community spirit, and end harmful ecological practices. In its downtown office, Centro Santa Angela runs programs, also sponsored by Heart-Links, aimed at ending family violence and misogyny, developing community leaders and good citizens, and exercising vigilance against corruption.

It was wonderful to see the positive impact our partners are making in the lives of hundreds of children, youth, women and men in northern Peru. We can say with confidence that your donations to Heart-Links are helping create a more just world.

The Enciclopedia is a series of 20 volumes that gathers stories and knowledge from Indigenous communities of the region. The new volumes will now be distributed to those same communities—almost 400 of them. Through informal gatherings and reading circles, community members use the books to help each other learn to read and write. These exchanges foster self-esteem, revitalize cultural traditions and build community—between young and old and between different communities.

Reconnecting through Libraries

The Rural Libraries Network also supplies more than 20 schools in the region with books from the series. And a new program is reconnecting youth with elders by inviting them to speak at the libraries. These initiatives foster intergenerational exchange so that young Peruvians know more about their land and traditions.

Heart-Links is proud to fund this revised edition of the Enciclopedia Campesina. Your donations are promoting literacy in remote rural communities and bringing young Peruvians knowledge of their roots.

From Observation to Reflection

Every day, children walk past the Quiritimayo stream. What was once a simple path has become a daily classroom, urging young minds to question the world around them. “Why is there garbage here? How did it get this way? What can we do to change this?” These questions have ignited a deeper level of understanding among the children, transforming their casual observations into critical reflections.

Through handmade books, these young authors have channeled their thoughts into stories and illustrations. Eight of these stories capture not just the environmental challenges but also creative solutions to reimagine their community’s relationship with the ravine. Stones once overlooked have become characters in vibrant tales, and clay has inspired colorful creations that bring their reflections to life.

Bringing Stories to Life

One of the most joyful moments this semester was the storytelling festivals. In July, the Quiritimayo Cultural Center came alive with the laughter and voices of children sharing their stories. These monthly festivals are now a cornerstone of the project, fostering a sense of pride and connection between the participants of Pomabamba and Quiritimayo.

For younger children, a new program called Graphic Expressions for Reading and Writing has sparked early literacy in the most imaginative ways. By drawing their experiences, six-year-olds have discovered that reading and writing are not just skills—they are lived experiences.

Weaving Bonds, Building Futures

The women of Pomabamba and Quiritimayo are also writing their own chapter in this story. Through weekly and monthly weaving schools, they have honed their skills, creating beautiful textiles that tell their own stories. These gatherings have become spaces for reflection, connection, and empowerment. As December approaches, the Quiritimayo group is preparing for their first sale, a milestone that symbolizes their growing independence and strength.

A Community of Change-Makers

The ACIES team, comprising women and youth from the local community, stands as the backbone of this initiative. Their dedication has not only driven the project forward but has also fostered a culture of learning and commitment within the group. Their work was even showcased at the Ibero-American Meeting of Teachers in Salta, Argentina, where they shared their innovative approaches to alternative education.

Looking Ahead

As the final phase of the project begins, the community is buzzing with dreams and determination. The book “Quiere a la Quebrada” is now ready for editing and printing, a tangible testament to the creativity and resilience of the children. Plans for a mural on the center’s façade aim to inspire pride and ownership in the neighborhood.

The journey of Quiritimayo is far from over. It is a story of transformation—of a community coming together to reclaim its environment, nurture its children, and empower its women. It is a testament to the idea that through storytelling, reflection, and creativity, even the smallest voices can inspire the greatest change.

Together, we are writing the next chapter of Quiritimayo’s story. One that brims with hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the power of community.

This vision came to life thanks to the tireless efforts of our partner organization, Latidos, and the support of local businesses like Agrícola Cayaltí. Together, they’ve created a safe, welcoming space for learning, where families can connect and grow. But this is just one chapter in Latidos’ incredible story of building resilient communities across the Zaña Basin.

Empowering a Generation

Over the past year, Latidos has reached deep into the heart of their communities, sparking change where it’s needed most.

Take the workshops for children and adolescents, for example. Through sessions on life planning, cultural awareness, and psychosocial risk prevention, 120 students across four schools have discovered their potential to dream bigger and achieve more. These young people aren’t just learning—they’re becoming leaders, equipped with the tools to transform their future.

And it’s not just the kids who are finding their voices. Women in the community are stepping into leadership roles too. Through workshops on entrepreneurship and family well-being, Latidos is helping women harness their strength, build businesses, and advocate for change. They’re forming networks, planning events like a Christmas dinner for women leaders, and showing their communities what empowered women can achieve.

Hope for the Future

Latidos’ impact extends to the elderly as well. Picture senior citizens gathering for a workshop on self-esteem, their laughter filling the room as they share stories and build friendships. These sessions are more than just classes—they’re lifelines, creating a sense of belonging and purpose for older adults in Zaña, Cayaltí, and Mocupe.

Then there are the health campaigns, which have delivered fortified food, organized anemia screenings, and even hosted competitions for healthy cooking. The results? Stronger families, healthier children, and a community inspired to take charge of their well-being.

Cultivating Resilience, Together

Latidos is also tackling environmental challenges head-on. Through their EcoGuardians Program, students are learning to protect their environment by conserving water, planting trees, and reducing waste. These young guardians are already making an impact—250 trees now line riverbanks near their towns, standing as a testament to their dedication.

All of this work is guided by a single goal: to create resilient communities. Latidos connects local groups with regional institutions, private companies, and NGOs, ensuring they have the resources to thrive.

Looking Ahead

The story doesn’t end here. Latidos is already planning for the future. Their upcoming programs include:

• Expanding literacy: Building new community libraries and strengthening school libraries to ignite a love of reading.
• Fighting anemia: Launching Superheroes Against Anemia to protect children under five from this preventable condition.
• Growing leaders: Empowering women and youth to become champions of change in their communities.

Your Role in This Story

This journey of transformation is only possible because of the support of people like you. Every dollar donated, every moment of your attention, fuels the dreams of the people in these communities.

When you join us for events like Share the Love or contribute to Heart-Links, you’re not just giving resources—you’re giving hope. Together, we’re turning the page to a brighter future, one where communities stand strong, resilient, and united.

Let’s keep this story going. Join us in supporting Latidos’ incredible work and become a part of their journey to change lives in Peru. Together, we can write the next chapter.

126 individuals, families and organizations donated almost $100,000 to Heart-Links to make this work possible. At our annual general meeting last Sunday, Trish Gergich, chair of Heart-Links’ board of directors, reflected on the year gone by and on Heart-Links’ recent visit to Peru. “I continue to be inspired and hopeful today,” she said, “because I can see that we are making the world a little bit better together.”

As Trish noted, big change starts with small actions, small conversations and a community. In 2023, the Heart-Links community between friends in Peru and friends in Canada gave rise to many small but powerful stories of resilience, change and hope. You can read some of those stories in our 2023 Impact Report.

“I am honoured to be a part of this amazing group of partners, community members, volunteers and donors,” Trish told the gathering (in person and virtual). “Thank you for being part of it, too.”

Who did your generosity help in 2023? What impact did you make? Who else is part of the Heart-Links community?

Our 2023 Impact Report will answer many of these questions. And we’d be happy to answer any others you may have. You can reach us at info@heart-links.org or by telephone at 226-884-2845.

The achievements of 2023 inspire us to carry on. We will continue to work in solidarity—with you and with our partners in Peru—to create a more just and equitable world.  

• Messages from our Board Chair, Treasurer and Projects Committee
• Introduction to our 2024 Board of Directors
• Presentation of our 2023 Impact Report
• A fond farewell to long-time staff Ruth Taylor

As part of the celebration, in-person guests can enter a draw for one of two door prizes.

And here’s another special treat: several of our partners will join us virtually from Peru!

When: Sunday, May 26, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET
Where: Innovation Works, 201 King Street, London, Ontario

Register for IN-PERSON attendance here.

Can’t make it to the in-person event? Join us virturally by Zoom!

Register for ZOOM attendance here.

When: Sunday, May 26, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Innovation Works, 201 King Street, London, Ontario AND by Zoom (link to come).

Learn about the impact your donations made in 2023. Help us celebrate another year of working together to create a more just world.

We have invited our partners to join the celebration, too. Virtually from Peru!

What can you expect at this fee-admission event?

• Messages from our Board Chair, Treasurer and Projects Committee
• Introduction to our 2024 Board of Directors
• Presentation of our 2023 Impact Report
• Good company, refreshments and a door prize!

We hope to see you there!

Our partners use these channels to raise awareness about important issues and to reach more people in their communities and across the country (and the world). They also celebrate the people they work with and their achievements.

If you use Facebook or Instagram, you can follow many of the organizations and projects your donations help fund. It’s a great way to show your support and to see for yourself the impact your gifts make.

Our partners makes their post in Spanish, but Facebook, for example, can translate them to English for you. And the photos are amazing in any language!

Follow the links below to connect:

Centro Santa Angela

	@centrosantaangela Ecological project: @programaecologicointegral Leadership School: @escueladelideres.santaangela Leadership School citizen watchdog committee: @COVAG.JLO New Masculinities project: @masculinidadeschiclayo
	Ecological project: @programaecologico Leadership School: @escueladelideres.santaangela
	@centrosantaangela
	Website: https://cefoprohsantaangela.org/

Centro Esperanza

	@centro.esperanza.pe
	@centroesperanza.cix
	Website: https://sites.google.com/centroesperanza.org/centroesperanza/inicio/

Latidos

@Latidos.asociacion

Rural Libraries

	@andaresbbrrcaj
	@bibliotecasruralescaj
	@andaresbibliotecasrurales
	Website/Blog: https://bibliotecasruralescajamarca.blogspot.com/

ACIES

	@aciescajamarca9374
	Website/Blog: https://aciesesperanza.jimdofree.com/

Remember to follow Heart-Links too!

	@heart.links.london
	@heartlinkslondon
	@heart-links-lazos-de-corazon
	@heartlinks

Erla spoke of the many crises Peruvians have edured recently: COVID19, political upheaval, racism, repression, flooding and now the worst outbreak of dengue in the country’s history. She spoke of the temptation to give in to discouragement and despair.

But Erla also spoke about hope. And about the amazing work Centro Santa Angela’s Leadership School is doing to “weave together” a better future.

Founded in 2014, the Leadership School has developed the leadership skills of scores of Peruvians, women and men, young and old. Graduates across the country exercise leadership that is horizontal, democratic, ethical and commited to human development. They are active and engaged citizens, holding their governments to account.

Heart-Links has been there from the beginning, providing financial support, accompaniment and solidarity.

But don’t take our word for it. Listen for yourself to what Erla has to say about this crucial initiative.