ALF Voices: Néstor Durón
This month’s ALF Voices blog post is by our Program Manager, Néstor Durón, a recent addition to the ALF team. We’re excited to welcome Néstor to the team and greatly appreciate his broad experience managing teams, developing and running programs, and work in both the public and private sectors. Welcome to the ALF Team Néstor!
- Are you a native islander? If not, what brought you to the island?
While I’m not a native islander, my journey to the island was driven by my role as Program Manager at ALF. I’m from Tegucigalpa, the capital city, to contribute to the organization’s mission and make a positive impact in the community.
- What inspires you to be a part of ALF and what do you love most about your role with the organization?
What inspires me to be a part of ALF is the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. The aspect I love most about my role with the organization is seeing the tangible results of our work and witnessing the positive changes we bring to individuals and communities.
- What are some of your favorite hobbies or interests outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy a variety of hobbies and interests. I find relaxation in reading suspense novels and manga, watching anime, playing classical guitar, indulging in mountain biking, tennis, video games, and spending quality time with my wife and two-year-old son. I also love exploring new culinary experiences and trying different dishes.
- Can you share a fun or interesting fact about yourself that others may not know?
A fun fact about me is that I’ve always had a keen interest in outdoor adventures. From hiking to rafting, I’m always up for trying something new and daring, especially if it involves exploring the beautiful landscapes of Honduras.
- How do you like to spend your weekends or days off?
On weekends or days off, I cherish spending time with my family. Whether it’s embarking on a mini road trip to discover new places, enjoying a cozy barbecue at home, or engaging in various household activities, family time is precious to me.
- What’s something adventurous or daring that you’ve always wanted to try?
One adventurous activity I’ve always wanted to try is rafting on the Can-Grejal River in La Ceiba. The rush of adrenaline and the breathtaking scenery make it an enticing adventure I look forward to experiencing.
- Is there a particular skill or talent you have that you’re proud of?
A skill I’m proud of is my ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments. Whether it’s navigating complex projects or fostering teamwork, I pride myself on my versatility and determination to succeed.
- Describe a dream vacation destination you’ve always wanted to visit.
A dream vacation destination for me would be a journey through Europe with my wife. From savoring authentic pizza in Italy to basking in the sun on the beaches of Greece, exploring the rich history and diverse cultures of Europe would be an unforgettable experience.
- What’s one piece of advice or motto that guides you in life?
Two mottos that guide me in life are: “El que estudia aprende, El que aprende sabe, El que sabe triunfa” (he who studies learns, he who learns knows, he who knows succeeds) and
“Si algo se puede hacer en menos de 5 minutos haz eso primero y luego sigue con lo demás” (if something can be done in less than 5 minutes, do that first and then move on to the rest). These principles remind me of the importance of continuous learning, efficiency, and perseverance in achieving success.