Diego Lopez

Diego Lopez - Washington
Nomination & Photography by Stephanie Boeshaar photography
Issue 76 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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Nomination: Diego Lopez, the youngest of four, left his economically disadvantaged country of Guatemala for a better life and education in the United States. Passionate about baseball and engineering, he exudes joy and faces hurdles with a determined smile. Despite challenges, he takes them head-on with unwavering perseverance. He works hard, trying to pay tuition out of pocket. I watch him take any job he can to make ends meet Currently attending a local university, this marks his first quarter as he pursues a degree in engineering. Diego's spirit and resilience are truly inspiring, leaving me in awe of his journey.
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Photography by Stephanie Boeshaar photography

​How did you find your photographer, Stephanie Boeshaar photography? What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
My journey started with an English exchange program, where my host mother, a skilled photographer, made the experience truly remarkable. The sessions were so fun, we laughed a lot and you could tell they were filled work genuine joy. I particularly enjoyed the creativity involved, including outfit changes and exploring locations. My host mom's expertise shone through and made me feel comfortable. This experience not only enhanced my language proficiency but also gave me an appreciation for the art of capturing people in a genuine way.
 
What else would you like to talk about?
My family is a source of inspiration for me, but the one that provides me inspiration to forge ahead day after day is my mom. Her unwavering fight for my progress shaped who I am today. She lights my path, and all my achievements are owed to her dedication. Alongside, my brothers and sister provide strength and motivation, pushing me towards my goals. My family is a constant source of stability, offering support that has been important to my decision to study in the US. Together, they create a cheering team, inspiration that makes me want to make them proud.

Tell us about your family. Where do you fit in, and where do you stand out?
I'm the youngest among two brothers and a sister. In our family, I'm known as the joker, always aiming to bring smiles and create enjoyable moments for everyone.

What are some things you enjoy doing with your siblings?
I have loved bonding with my brothers through baseball. They taught me the sport from the very beginning. Weekends were often spent at the field, hitting balls and playing together. With my sister, our time was filled with laughter through movies and cooking. Although I didn't contribute much to the cooking, it was a shared experience that I cherish.

What is a family memory you will never forget?
An unforgettable memory was a trip to ¨Semuc Champey ¨. The trip consisted of going to visit the Semuc Champey river, a touristic place in Guatemala that we had never visited before. It was a trip that I will always carry in my heart because we spent quality time, we strengthened our relationship as a family, we laughed like we had never laughed before, we had unique experiences, I strengthened my relationship with my brothers and my mom. That is why that trip left a mark in my heart.

Photography by Stephanie Boeshaar photography

How did you get the opportunity to come to the US?
Thanks to my US host family, my life took a new direction. Following my three-month high school US exchange program, I returned to Guatemala to complete my high school studies. One day, my mom from the United States asked if I wanted to study there, and without hesitation, I seized the opportunity. Initially challenging, my decision turned out to be the blessing of a lifetime, and I owe it all to my host family.

What was the most exciting part vs the most nerve racking part of your experience in the move?
Understanding that this chance would pave the way for my own personal growth, and in academics, by providing the opportunity to study alongside field experts and building new connections and friendships. On the other hand, the prospect of leaving behind everything I hold dear – my home, family, friends, and sports – is deeply distressing. The realization that I won't be able to continue my journey with my loved ones, especially leaving behind my cherished home and dear family, brings a deep sadness but also an excitement of a new journey.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Baseball isn't just a sport for me; it's my passion and a source of unwavering support. The discipline and perseverance ingrained in baseball have shaped my character. It's not just a game; we’re a family, a community of teens that work together to bring joy to each other through sport. Besides entertainment, baseball helps develop values, teamwork, and personal growth. Whether playing or cheering from the stands, it also brings people together, strengthening our community. Baseball, for me, isn't just a pastime; it's a profound connection that leaves a lasting impact on my life and the community that embraces it.

Tell us about your baseball career.
I started playing this beautiful sport when I was 6 years old thanks to my dad. When I was seven years old my dad decided to put me in a team called ¨Bronx¨. After 2 years our team won the first national tournament in my category. In that tournament I was batting leader, stolen bases leader, gold glove, leader of more runs batted in. After that championship I was called to be part of the national baseball team. Now I am just studying and at the same time trying to be part of a team.

What position do you play and why does it suit you?
I cover nearly every position on the field, with shortstop being my primary role. This position resonates with me due to my athleticism, making me quick and agile on the field.

What is a favorite accomplishment with baseball?
Joining the Guatemalan national team was a true honor, especially after being selected following our victory in the children's category championship. My first journey as a national team member was to Mexico, a moment that filled me with immense pride. Since then I have competed in various countries including Puerto Rico, Panama, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Colombia. Notably, we secured a third-place position in the tournament in Colombia, barely missing the chance to advance to the Little League tournament in the United States.

What do you love about engineering and what are you excited for next in the field?
Contributing to individuals or communities is a rewarding part of many engineering professions. Many engineering paths offer the chance to create a real impact by solving important problems and designing solutions that benefit society. Pursing a career in engineering also enables me to perceive the world in a more analytical way. The idea of pursuing civil engineering excites me, as lets me to play a role in the maintenance, control, and operation of buildings and structures.
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Photography by Stephanie Boeshaar photography

​What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
My love for Guatemala's culture, landscape, food, traditions and family capture my heart. The challenges disadvantaged communities face is a daily struggle and leaves a lasting impact on me, especially considering the shadow of government corruption that seems to roadblock positive change. My love for Guatemala is strong but the reality is inequality and corruption of government inhibits many aspects of life. Fortunately, USA education has become a refuge and has given me a wider perspective of careers, friends and opportunities I wouldn’t have had in Guatemala. It has provided an opportunity to navigate a more promising future.

What do you wish people who have never visited Guatemala knew about the community and culture?
That Guatemala is famous for its impressive handicrafts and textiles, which are hand-woven by local artisans using traditional techniques. However we Guatemalans are known for our warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. People usually welcome foreigners with open arms and are willing to share our culture and traditions. In addition, Guatemala is a country with a rich cultural diversity. Its indigenous people, such as the Mayans, have a deeply rooted history and culture that have influenced the country's identity.

If they were going to go visit, what is a must see or do that they would have to experience to get a positive impact?
There are three places that are perfect to get a good impression of Guatemala , among them are : Antigua Guatemala: This colonial city is famous for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and vibrant markets. Lake Atitlan: Considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Lake Atitlan is surrounded by volcanoes and picturesque villages. Finally, Tikal is practically where the Mayan civilization lived. It is an archaeological site, located in the tropical jungle of northern Guatemala, has imposing temples and pyramids found in the jungle.

If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
In Guatemala, enjoying the day with my family, perhaps at a dinner in Antigua Guatemala, an amazing spot in the country to visit, creates a fun and happy atmosphere. It’s warm, friendly, full of life and activities. This would be my ideal way to spend a day, surrounded by my family, sharing experiences, laughter, adventures, and stories. The joy of being with my family brings a happiness and warmth that words can't capture.

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
Completing my two-year studies at TCC and subsequently applying to the University of Washington Tacoma is my pathway to becoming what I truly aspire to be. I'm eager to learn more about the United States, its communities, and actively engage with them.

Photography by Stephanie Boeshaar photography

​What is the most difficult thing you have accomplished and how did you do it?
Graduating with honors from my high school. I achieved it with discipline and effort.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Don't give up. Always keep going no matter how hard it gets, there is always a way to keep going and fight for your dreams.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years and what are your plans?
Completing my studies and making my family proud of everything I have accomplished.

What is your favorite activity or hobby that was not in your nomination?
Hanging out with my friends and spending quality time with them.
Do you have any hidden talents, what are they?
The ability to solve problems, not only academically but in everyday life as well.

3 things on your bucket list
Travel the world with my family
To feel proud of myself when I complete my dreams.
To become a good engineer

Who inspires you?
My mom is the person who motivates me to keep moving forward.

What is it about you that inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
Discipline and never giving up. Because effort is the key to success

Look for Diego in issue 76 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 76

click here to nominate an inspiring teen