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Unveiling the Extraordinary: A Journey of Youth Empowerment at Playa Puertecito: Boulder to Baja EmpowerGen Adventure Series
Last week, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Playa Puertecito, a place where the magnificence of turquoise waters merges with the enchantment of nature. Read last week’s article written on the land here.
As we continue to explore the profound connections and transformative experiences that unfold in this remarkable sanctuary, we are reminded of the immense power of youth empowerment and the remarkable stories that emerge from young changemakers.
Ulysses Diaz, a volunteer and local community builder, in his contemplation of our purpose in this beautiful place, prompted us to reflect on the deeper significance of our presence. His questions, “Why are we here? What are we looking for?” resonate deeply, urging us to consider the impact our decisions today have on generations to come. Playa Puertecito becomes the stage where our hearts, muscles, and spirits align with nature, Earth, and all that is mysterious and alive. It is a place where being uncomfortable becomes an opportunity for growth and where we reinforce our belief in a future where many worlds coexist harmoniously.
Alyssa, a community health nurse, beautifully captured the essence of Playa Puertecito as a majestic realm where nature’s beauty and wonder envelop us. It is a space where we can tap into our inner child, embracing play, mystery, and a profound connection to the source of all life. The stewards of the land, along with the warm-hearted Gente of the local community, create an atmosphere of welcome and care, making us feel like we belong. Simmering in the starlight of the night sky and dancing with the bioluminescence in the sea, we witness the symphony of life unfolding. Eagle rays gracefully glide through the waters, puffer fish share their contagious smiles, and a multitude of magnificent sea creatures open their doors to us. In this enchanting place, we are reminded of the vibrational harmony of la Tierra, urging us to cherish each day as a blessing and to express gratitude for all that Mother Earth provides.
Victor Jr., one of our exceptional guides and family partners, invites us to revel in the glory of Playa Puertecito. From small encounters with marine life like the endearing pufferfish to thrilling night swims amidst bioluminescence, every experience connects us in a marvelous and unique way with the Earth. The sheer joy and vitality that fill this place awaken our spirits and infuse us with a sense of being truly alive. Victor’s intention is to provide us with unforgettable moments, woven with the essence of Playa Puertecito. Each day spent in this extraordinary setting offers spontaneous adventures, brimming with serendipity and unique encounters. Amongst the countless remarkable experiences, swimming with eagle rays and witnessing the breathtaking bioluminescent spectacle in the Sea of Cortez stand out as indelible highlights etched into our memories.
Kate, PeaceJam Executive Director, who helped orchestrate this adventure, was sitting on the beach during our final morning, and beautifully expressed the magic that envelops Playa Puertecito. “In this haven, we transcend the chaos of the outside world, peering deep into our own beings. Amidst fears, doubts, opinions, and beliefs, this land liberates us, grounding and illuminating our souls. Playa Puertecito becomes a space where stillness and love emanate, revealing the profound interconnectedness of all things.”
In our journey at Playa Puertecito, we are privileged to encounter incredible individuals who embody the spirit of youth changemakers. Next week, we will shine a spotlight on Jill, a remarkable young voice who has been making a difference since the age of nine. We will delve into her unique perspective on the different spaces and worlds that exist within and beyond Playa Puertecito. Moreover, we will explore the concept of “genius” and its original meaning, which describes a place that possesses extraordinary power derived from natural forces and the people who inhabit it.
Join us next week as we unravel the inspiring story of Jill, a true catalyst for change, and discover the profound insights she brings to the transformative journey at Playa Puertecito. Together, let us continue to embrace the extraordinary and pave the way for a future where dreams become reality.
To read more empowering articles and share your voice in our EmpowerGen column, visit our website: Join the ‘EmpowerGen’ Revolution – Dream Tank (wearedreamtank.org)
Diving into a World of Wonders: The Unforgettable Playa Puertecito Adventure
Immersed in the mesmerizing turquoise waters, a sense of awe washed over me as a blissful puffer fish found solace in my hands. The gentle strokes from 28-year-old Victor Vargas Junior, one of the stewards of Playa Puertecito, created a connection that words cannot fully capture. If only tears could mix with the surrounding water, I would have wept with overwhelming joy. Victor, the son of my esteemed business partner, is not just a steward but also a part-owner, embodying the intergenerational vision we strive to cultivate at Playa Puertecito. Alongside him, his sister Anneth, a 24-year-old visionary, orchestrated a magnificent fiesta for both Loretanos and now Puertecitanos, exemplifying our commitment to multigenerational collaboration and the vital importance of listening to the voices of the next generation and the local community, who hold the keys to our off-grid paradise in Loreto.
As I sit atop the community palapa, embraced by a gentle breeze, my surroundings become a canvas for inspiration. Surrounding me are the passionate team of PeaceJam volunteers, who generously sponsored a trip to explore the endless possibilities of co-creating a new eco-village and off-grid campus dedicated to play, healing, and the love of nature.
This land, situated on 20 acres near the picturesque fishing community of Loreto, Baja California Sur, holds a profound significance. It is here that a caretaking couple and their fully grown nephew have embraced a fully off-grid lifestyle since December 2022, when our collective vision first broke ground and laid the foundation for an eco-friendly structure. This bold step toward sustainable living has already fostered connections with the mayor and her esteemed officials. I couldn’t help but express my admiration for their leadership, proclaiming “Tres Mujeres Fuertes y Amorosas” (Three Strong and Loving Women) guiding this community. This powerful bond has inspired the establishment of a sister city connection, fueling our “Boulder to Baja” adventure of cross-cultural learning and co-creation.
Yet, as I pen this article, I am keenly aware of the limitations of words in capturing the true essence and magnificence of Playa Puertecito. It is a place that defies easy description, a tapestry of beauty woven through the stories of the growing community surrounding this project.
“I just swam through the universe! That was the best night of my life!” exclaimed Jill, her eyes gleaming with delight. Her midnight snorkeling escapade beneath a star-studded sky unveiled the mesmerizing dance of bioluminescence in the calm waters of the Sea of Cortez.
In the following articles, we will embark on an exploration of the enchanting stories that unfold at Playa Puertecito. Together, we will dive into the depths of this magical world, where dreams take flight and generations thrive. Join us next week as we delve further into the wonders of this extraordinary journey and encounter the extraordinary souls who call Playa Puertecito home. Check out last week’s article on AboutBoulder for more about Playa Puertecito.
Stay tuned for the next installment, where we will share more heartwarming encounters, captivating experiences, and the profound insights that Playa Puertecito has to offer. Together, let’s discover the uncharted realms of this remarkable place and pave the way for a future where dreams become reality.
To read more empowering articles and discover how you can share your voice in our EmpowerGen column, visit our website: Join the ‘EmpowerGen’ Revolution – Dream Tank (wearedreamtank.org)
“I’ll Get Up For Dolphins!” Unveiling the EmpowerGen Boulder to Baja Adventure Series
Embarking on a Journey of Co-Creation: Join the Playa Puertecito Adventure!
Get ready for an exhilarating storytelling journey as we unveil a multi-part series within the EmpowerGen column, showcasing the extraordinary “Boulder to Baja” adventure of cultural exchange, innovation, and sustainable living. Building upon the inspiring stories of youth changemakers featured in our previous articles, we’re thrilled to share the exciting progress made by these young visionaries.
In a recent article, we highlighted Summer, a remarkable young leader who, along with two other teens, recently explored the breathtaking landscapes of Playa Puertecito, a magical land on the Sea of Cortez on the Baja peninsula, Mexico, where a “Playground of Possibilities” is emerging.
A purpose-aligned community currently being grounded by youth serving organizations: PeaceJam, Dream Tank, along with land, education, adventure and tourism partner organizations in Mexico, is coming together to fund and design a campus bolstered by a regenerative eco-village where like-minded residents share their expertise and support our youth in dreaming, designing and inheriting the future they need to know is possible at this critical time.
Together, the teens immersed themselves in the beauty and potential of this magical land, envisioning the creative possibilities for our collaborative community.
This adventure goes beyond mere exploration—it’s an opportunity for healing, cultural exchange, play, and connection with nature. Research has shown that play is a powerful tool for youth development, fostering creativity, resilience, and social connections. In an article by renowned psychologist Dr. Peter Gray, he emphasizes the importance of play for young people’s well-being and their ability to navigate an ever-changing world.
Drawing inspiration from Summer’s impactful journey and the growing momentum of youth-driven change, our upcoming series will delve deeper into the transformative experiences and discoveries made during our time at Playa Puertecito. It’s a testament to the power of play, cultural exchange, and connection with nature in shaping a sustainable future for the youth of Boulder and beyond.
Here is what Summer has to say about the land:
“Upon arrival at Playa Puertecito, I was immediately stunned at the beauty and possibility of the land. The beautiful teal blue water, the beach, the sunsets. We camped out for two nights, and the experience was a noteworthy one. I could feel that this cove was special and was excited about the future projects that were being planned.
I had been told that in the morning dolphins came right into our cove, and you could see them from the beach. However, they are only there early in the mornings. Being a teenager, I wasn’t happy that early morning was the only time to spectate these magical creatures. However, I decided that of course, I would wake up for dolphins. The next morning, my mom and I walked down to the beach, and sure enough, there they were. Around twenty dolphins swimming right in front of our beach. I couldn’t believe it. I could sit there and watch them for hours splashing and playing in the waves. Too bad the water was choppy that day, because my mom and I tried to take a small dinghy out to get a closer look. It was definitely a struggle, and my clothes got soaking wet. Eventually we realized it probably wasn’t a good idea to take such a small boat out in choppy waters. But as soon as I go back, I’m taking a stand-up paddleboard right out to see the dolphins up close. Watching them was an amazing experience and I can’t wait to do it again.”
As we embark on this adventure, we invite you to join us in celebrating the passion and ingenuity of these young changemakers. Follow along as we share their inspiring stories, the connections they forged with local communities, and the creative visions they developed for a better world.
Stay tuned for the first installment of our Playa Puertecito Adventure series, where we’ll dive into the initial explorations, the unique cultural exchange, and the boundless potential that awaits in this remarkable corner of the world. Watch a fun video of Summer and I on the beach that morning watching the Dolphins!
Be part of the Playa Puertecito Collaborative’s journey to create a sustainable playground of possibilities. Discover how you can contribute, engage, and join us in building a better world for the next generation by following our Patreon page and filling out the form to get involved. If you’re a young changemaker with a powerful voice and a passion for creating positive change, we invite you to apply to be featured in our EmpowerGen column and have your voice heard. Visit the Dream Tank website and apply now: Link to EmpowerGen Application
Turning Passion into a Livelihood: Meet Dakota, a Young Entrepreneur Driving Climate Action
By Heidi Cuppari
While Summer was putting the finishing touches on last week’s EmpowerGen article, Gen Z: Rising Up for Climate Action and a Sustainable Future, the doorbell unexpectedly rang. On my doorstep was a smiling teenager named Dakota Hess-Tolene, who was going door to door in my neighborhood with a great deal to help Boulder residents go renewable, saving money and energy. I was astounded at the beauty of this synchronicity. Inside my house was a young person who is taking action and urging others to do the same for our climate, and right on my doorstep materialized a young person making it his business to do something about the rising global temperatures. I noticed his passion for his work immediately. So I decided to interview him on the spot and highlight him for this week’s column. This story was the perfect opportunity to keep the positive vibes and youth action front and center for the AboutBoulder community and beyond.
The best part: he is doing this with his mother, too. They are both having a blast making an impact and making money together. A powerful mother-son duo striving to make a change to improve the future of our world.
Below is the interview:
Heidi: What do you want to say about your generation and climate change, and what you are doing about it and how it has helped you?
Dakota: Most importantly, I want to pitch in and save the environment as well as help people save a ton of money. I want to help people own their electricity instead of being controlled by the corporate greed of the electric companies. These companies raise rates when they want. Solar power gives more power to the people. It allows us to make money, help the environment, and help ourselves.
Heidi: That’s wonderful! I have been working in impact investing for 19 years, including climate action, where one can make a profit while doing good. Models like these have the best chance of success in driving change – when change is economically driven and helps people in their day-to-day lives, it has a greater impact. You are a shining example of that. What drives you? What is your big dream?
Dakota: My big dream is to have a big family. I’m doing this business because I want to be able to support my family and create generational knowledge and wealth to inspire future generations.
Heidi: Interesting you said that about having a big family. That’s different from what I’ve heard from others in your generation, as Summer mentioned in last week’s article. Many are scared of having kids for a future they don’t know is secure, especially with the environmental issues. What’s different for you?
Dakota: If I have all these kids, I can help guide them to the future and teach them about keeping the environment clean and spreading that knowledge to their kids and everyone they talk to. It’s a positive spread. The more people that teach and do positive things, the more it will take over.
Heidi: That’s wonderful! And you can already do that now by inspiring others your age, right?
Dakota: Absolutely!
Heidi: Tell me more about your solar job. I love hearing about passionate young people addressing the Sustainable Development Goals through business. (The SDG’s are an urgent call for action by all countries – developed and developing – in a global partnership. Latest Progress Report Here)
Dakota: Solar is making a positive impact in every way. It helps the environment and allows people to save money.
Heidi: It also seems to bring a huge smile to your face! That’s wonderful to see, Dakota. Smiling and maintaining positive mental health are crucial, especially for your generation. In recent years, there has been a growing concern about mental health challenges among young people. Have you noticed any of these challenges among your peers? What’s your take on it?
Dakota: Many people in my generation feel like there isn’t much room for growth in their jobs. They often find themselves stuck in minimum wage and feel like they can’t progress because it doesn’t provide enough financial incentive and good products, or the companies don’t treat their employees well. At ADT Solar, one of the best solar companies out there, we can offer security and roofing services in addition to solar. There are a lot of scammy solar companies out there that don’t prioritize doing what’s right. ADT has the best warranties and focuses on keeping people safe. They also treat their employees well, which is why I made the switch from other companies.
Heidi: That’s interesting, and it aligns with my work in helping people create more options and redefine the future of work. It’s truly magical to connect with you and hear your story. So, tell me a bit more about your life. Did you grow up in Boulder?
Dakota: No, I actually moved to Boulder from Georgia during my freshman year of high school. I just graduated from Boulder High School. Due to the pandemic, I didn’t have many opportunities to make friends in person as I was mostly online. When I was in the neighborhood, I started to make friends, but then we moved to the mountains, and I experienced absolute isolation for two years. I decided to make peace with the situation and focus on my personal growth. That’s when I started working out a lot and prioritizing my physical and mental well-being.
Heidi: That’s incredible, Dakota. You turned a challenging situation into something positive, and your determination is truly inspiring.
As I conclude this interview, I am amazed by Dakota’s drive and passion for creating a sustainable future. His commitment to environmental action and his desire to support future generations is truly admirable. Dakota is a shining example of how young people can make a positive impact and shape a better world.
Let’s all take inspiration from Dakota’s story and continue to support the youth in their journey to create change. There is hope for a brighter, more sustainable future as long as we all decide to make a change for the better.To read more empowering articles and discover how you can share your voice in our EmpowerGen column, visit our website: Join the ‘EmpowerGen’ Revolution – Dream Tank (wearedreamtank.org)