It starts with power, it starts with passion

Electrification project gives power and opportunity to rural Guatemalans

In the rugged mountains of Guatemala lies the small village of Barejones. The land is plentiful and fertile, providing fruitful ground for crops such as corn, peppers, tomatoes and green beans among other agricultural products.

Their people are filled with gracious charisma. They’re resilient, hard-working and full of joy. They lead simple lives, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoying their piece of paradise.

Yet, many of them aspire for a brighter tomorrow. They have lived without electricity for decades but witnessed history when 15 volunteers from Oklahoma’s electric cooperatives spent three weeks working on their land — building electric infrastructure to turn their lights on for the first time.

Theirs is a story of hope, strength and friendship. For Oklahoma’s electric cooperatives, the privilege of paying forward is profound. Decades ago, rural America was in the dark. Electric cooperatives were created to transform lives with the gift of electricity, at home and abroad.

For us, we believe — #ItStartswithPower.

Behind the lens

By Lance Shaw

When I began my career with the electric cooperatives never did I imagine I would have the opportunity to travel outside of the country doing what I enjoy. Nine years later I found myself in a remote village in Guatemala with a camera in hand.

Since working for the statewide association, I’ve experienced the Energy Trails projects from the outside looking in and falling in love with the scenic country and the people captured in the shots from previous photographers. Last year I had the chance to be the one behind the lens capturing both of those to share with family and friends of our linemen back home and you, our readers — it was a trip I will never forget.

Experiencing the work firsthand, the curiosity and joy of the villagers as we drove in on the first day and the connections of the linemen that grew each day will forever be a core memory, a feeling of joy that will last. I can only hope that feeling came through my lens to those from the outside looking in just as I had been for prior projects. Since getting back I’ve been asked multiple times if I would go back, and the answer is always yes!