This reflection was written by a young Honduran man who believes men have a role to play in supporting women’s leadership.

Growing Up Between Respect and Reality

I am a young man born and raised in San Pedro Sula, one of the main cities in Honduras. I grew up in a close family within a Christian community, where the women around me were treated with respect and valued. 

However, outside my immediate environment, I often saw a different reality. Through newspapers, conversations, and media coverage, I became aware of how many women in my country faced unfair treatment — limited educational opportunities, domestic violence, and barriers in the workplace that made professional growth more difficult than it should be.

I do not write from the experience of being a woman, but from the perspective of someone who grew up observing both respect and inequality in the same society. That contrast shaped the way I think about gender and opportunity today.

Why International Women’s Month Matters in Honduras

Every March, the world celebrates International Women’s Month, often considered a time to honor women and their essential role in every part of our daily lives. 

In Honduras, where machismo culture still shapes many systems and expectations, this month carries particular responsibility for us as men. It’s a beautiful opportunity to recognize the voices, roles, and contributions of our women. Let’s become the men God wants us to be- supporting, uplifting, and listening to women’s voices. 

Leadership Mission International’s Role Developing Honduran Women as Leaders

Thirteen years ago, Leadership Mission International began impacting lives in the beautifully mountainous Honduras. Through their educational programs, strong core values, and devotion to faith, they have been empowering one of the most important parts of our population: young women. 

LMI helps them gain the confidence and self-respect they need, and, most importantly, equip them with life skills that will shape them into outstanding leaders—leaders who will serve their country and, why not, the world!

I stand up for women not only because I grew up surrounded by them, but also because I believe women everywhere deserve our respect and admiration for their strength, persistence, and the natural shine God gave them.

Unfortunately, many women have had their light dimmed through neglect and life’s realities. When resources are limited, opportunities narrow. Many women are forced to choose between safety and education, between financial survival and long-term dreams.

I’ve seen this happen many times, especially through my mother, who is a pastor. I’ve witnessed women come to the ministry hurt or broken, and yet, through prayer, God’s word, and reassurance of their value, they became empowered and began to step into the women they were born to be.

This is why Leadership Mission International’s work is vital because through advice, education, and, most importantly, guidance through our Lord, they truly impact the lives of these young women. They nurture the light that exists in these women, and help them to shine in their communities.

I applaud the incredible opportunities that they provide to the hundreds of female leaders they support through their work.

With this piece, I hope to raise my voice and pledge to continue supporting their dedicated mission, while also inviting Honduran men to join this movement and make a difference by playing a vital role in uplifting our powerful Honduran women.

And more importantly, let’s become the men God wants us to be — supporting, respecting, and cheering on the amazing women of Honduras every day.