“We grew up in communities where there was no electricity and no communication,” explained Palma. “Even providing a light and a way to charge a phone can open the door to more business, communication, and eventually bigger systems.”

For Miriam Choc, the journey into solar energy began when she was selected, along with other women in her community, to attend technical training abroad.

“In our culture it was not easy,” she said. “Women were not expected to travel or take these opportunities.” With support from her family, she went on to train in India, where she learned to build solar systems. After returning, she helped electrify her community and later co-founded a company that now provides solar installations, system design and training.

That experience also shifted how women are seen, and how they see themselves.

“Before, women were not allowed to speak in meetings or become leaders,” Miriam said. “Now things are changing. Women are participating and becoming leaders in their communities.”

This is the shift the Belizean team continues to carry into each new country they work in. It is not only about transferring technical knowledge, but about creating space for women to engage with that knowledge directly.

There is a moment they often describe. A trainee finishes assembling her first system. The connections hold. The light turns on.
“It’s the happiness of seeing that glow,” Palma said. “But it’s not just the light. It’s when they realize the power they have within.”