NauFest 2025: Empowering Guatemalan Youth for Employability and Entrepreneurship

NauFest, the flagship youth training festival organized by Junior Achievement Guatemala (JAG), successfully wrapped up its 2025 edition with great enthusiasm. The event provided thousands of Guatemalan students between the ages of 15 and 25 with tools and knowledge in employability, entrepreneurship, and financial education, combining in-person and virtual sessions.

A Four-Day Festival of Learning and Inspiration

From August 26 to 29, the INTECAP auditorium in Guatemala City’s Zone 4 hosted hundreds of students in morning and afternoon sessions. These gatherings offered an interactive experience designed to inspire, train, and open new opportunities for the future.

The agenda included keynote conferences and panels on essential topics such as building a strong CV, developing a personal brand, and gaining confidence in job interviews. Students also received guidance on financial health, including budgeting, saving, credit, and insurance.

Extending the Reach Through Virtual Sessions

To expand the impact, additional online sessions were held on September 2 and 4, connecting students from different regions of the country. These virtual encounters ensured that young people unable to attend in person could still access practical tools and inspiration from national and international corporate experts.

“In each student, we saw enthusiasm, talent, and willingness to learn. NauFest – EmpléaT ya! is a platform that gives them real tools to face the challenges of the job market and to pursue entrepreneurship with confidence,” said José Herrera, Executive Director of JAG.

The Power of Alliances and Partnerships

The success of the festival was made possible thanks to the support of key partners and sponsors who believe in the potential of Guatemalan youth to transform the country.

These included Open Marketing, Incaparina, LOS40 Guatemala, Progreso, Banco Industrial, 24/7.ai, Taco Bell, BIC, Banco Promerica, Alianza por los Jóvenes-CentraRSE, INTECAP, Nestlé, CACIF Joven, Bantrab, and Interbanco.

“This event is a testament to the power of partnerships. Thanks to our sponsors and allies, thousands of young people have received practical training that will mark a before and after in their lives,” highlighted Lissette de Garduño, President of JAG.

Preparing the Next Generation for the Real World

Through NauFest 2025, Junior Achievement Guatemala reaffirms its mission of transforming lives with innovative educational programs that prepare young people to succeed in the real world.

By equipping students with skills for employability, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, JAG continues to inspire a generation ready to lead change in their communities.