A New Leader for Costa Rican Youth: Miguel Arrieta Berrocal, CATIE Student, Appointed Vice Minister of Youth
In a world where the future is increasingly shaped by young voices and innovative thinking, Miguel Arrieta Berrocal stands as a beacon of hope and leadership. On October 10th, President Rodrigo Chaves of Costa Rica appointed Miguel, a student at the prestigious Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE), as the new Vice Minister of Youth. This significant recognition highlights Miguel’s dedication to sustainable development, youth empowerment and his vision for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Shaping the Future of Costa Rica
Miguel Arrieta is not just any student. He is completing his Master’s Degree in Economics, Development and Climate Change at CATIE, an institution globally recognized for its commitment to sustainability and innovation in tropical regions. As part of the 2023-2024 graduating class, Miguel has consistently demonstrated leadership, resilience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the youth of today—particularly those related to climate change and economic disparity.
His appointment as Vice Minister of Youth is a testament to his outstanding abilities and his commitment to the next generation. In his new role, Miguel will be tasked with leading the national youth agenda, fostering participation and working to implement inclusive public policies that create better opportunities for young people throughout Costa Rica.
CATIE’s Legacy in Action
Luis Pocasangre, Director-General of CATIE, proudly reflected on Miguel’s journey: "Miguel Arrieta’s appointment is a moment of immense pride for CATIE. His passion for sustainable development and his dedication to youth empowerment perfectly align with the values we nurture here. His leadership is an example of the impact that education, commitment and vision can have on the future of Costa Rica."
Mariela Leandro, Dean of the Graduate School at CATIE, also expressed her confidence in Miguel’s ability to make a difference: "Miguel’s understanding of the needs of young people and his capacity to create policies that foster participation and development are exactly what the country needs right now. His leadership will leave a lasting mark on Costa Rican society."
A Vision for Sustainable Youth Leadership
As the Vice Minister of Youth, Miguel Arrieta will be at the forefront of creating spaces where young people can actively engage in shaping their futures. He will work hand in hand with various national and international organizations to push forward policies that promote youth inclusion, sustainability and meaningful participation in decision-making processes. His goal? To ensure that the voices of the youth are not only heard but also empowered to make real change.
This appointment is a clear reflection of the profound impact that institutions like CATIE and organizations like The Tropics Foundation, have in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow. By fostering education, research and sustainable practices, we are contributing to a world where visionary young leaders like Miguel can rise to positions of influence, driving change for their communities and beyond.
A Future of Opportunities
At The Tropics Foundation, we believe that the future is built on the foundations of education, sustainability and leadership. Miguel Arrieta Berrocal embodies these values and we are thrilled to witness his journey as he steps into this vital role. His work will undoubtedly shape the next generation of Costa Rican youth, creating opportunities for growth, innovation and empowerment.
We congratulate Miguel on this incredible achievement and look forward to seeing the impact he will undoubtedly have on both Costa Rica and the global community.
Written by: Karla Salazar Leiva. .
Edited by: Estefanie Ramirez B.