The 2024 Americas Award

Summary: A young boy, eager to win his school's Spanish spelling bee, turns to his grandmother for help. As they study, she shares stories of her past, when speaking Spanish was forbidden in school. Inspired by her resilience, he strives to honor his heritage and make his family proud. This touching tale explores cultural pride and the power of language across generations.

Summary: In the early morning darkness, a young boy embarks on a nine-kilometer trek through Chile's mountains and rainforests to reach school. As he counts butterflies and dreams of possibilities, his journey highlights the resilience needed to overcome obstacles for education. What challenges will he face, and where will his 15,000 steps lead him? This story invites readers to explore the beauty of Chile and the courage of children worldwide who strive for a better future through learning.