A New Partner, A New Chapter
November 22, 2024
Margarita O’Byrne Curtis, a board member of Rostro de Cristo, was born and raised in Colombia. She holds a PhD from Harvard University and has over five decades of experience in education. Throughout her career, she has worked in various roles, including teacher, department chair, dean of studies, and head of school.
Margarita explained that the mission of Rostro de Cristo is important to her for two main reasons. First, she was born and raised in Latin America. Second, and most importantly, she is an educator. “I am focused on shaping the character of young people at a fundamental level. I aim to instill the right values and help them discover more meaningful ways of being in the world, not just academically or athletically, but to help them want to transcend from focusing on themselves and develop a deeper understanding of the responsibilities that we have for one another.”
During her visit to Ecuador, she was profoundly touched by the authentic, respectful, and nurturing connections that existed between Rostro de Cristo volunteers and their neighbors. These relationships were characterized by a deep sense of mutual care and appreciation, with both parties acknowledging and celebrating each other’s positive attributes. “I believe they saw the face of Christ in each other.”
Margarita emphasized the personal growth that comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone. She witnessed young people gaining perspective and self-awareness and broadening their horizons. Rostro de Cristo offers young people the chance to appreciate and understand the privileges they have received and to gain experience serving others and by living and working in another country, culture and context from what is familiar. This experience allows young people to contribute to building a more equitable world. “They develop deep, meaningful relationships and build their faith, and they also learn pragmatic skills like leadership, communication, and resiliency that will be key in their career development.”
Rostro de Cristo is working on a new program in Consuelo, Dominican Republic, in collaboration with ASCALA (Scalabrini Association in the Service of Migrants and Refugees), a ministry of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo. This joint effort aims to transform the lives of migrants and their children through legal aid, education, entrepreneurship training and support, and social services. “By expanding our work into the Dominican Republic, we are all part of a larger community, united in our mission to make a difference in the lives of the marginalized people working on the sugar plantations.” Margarita’s steadfast support for Rostro de Cristo is deeply rooted in her commitment to nurturing faith, values, and a strong sense of self in young people. The organization’s mission is tied to her passion for education and her desire to put her faith of action.
