My name is Mateo Acero and I have founded Mathematics Without Borders, an initiative devoted to bringing quality mathematics education to underserved communities around the globe. At its heart, this initiative seeks to bridge cultures and overcome linguistic barriers by uniting students through the universal language of mathematics.

Long before I set foot in Colombia, I envisioned a global movement, one that would empower students in even the most remote corners of the world through math. That vision began taking shape in its first location: the rural town of Vado Real, Colombia, at Colegio Luis Carlos Galán Sarmiento. There, I have had the privilege of teaching nine of the most brilliant, curious, and kind-hearted students I’ve ever met, under the guidance of their dedicated teacher, Mrs. Nini Johanna Cortés Rincón. I have been working closely with them for the past several weeks, and from the moment I arrived, I was welcomed like family.

Together, we dove headfirst into strengthening their mathematical thinking while also building cross cultural friendships. But teaching alone isn’t enough. When I returned home to Miami, I brought with me three iPads and a laptop to stay connected through virtual mentorship, but the school currently has no access to WiFi, making it impossible to continue supporting them digitally until the necessary infrastructure is in place.

Through my time there, I witnessed firsthand the urgency of their situation. The school lacks a functioning water fountain. The roof is in dangerous condition, with holes and cracks that invite both heavy rainfall and potentially harmful wildlife. The outdoor play area has broken cement, making it unsafe, and the students lack basic sports equipment. Most troubling of all, there’s a severe shortage of books and learning materials—resources these eager learners not only need but deeply yearn for.

Your donations will directly support this mission. The funds raised will be used for:

Renovations, including roof repairs, safe play area improvements, and basic structural fixes

Equipment such as WiFi installation and protective materials

Educational necessities like books, learning supplies, and recreational resources for physical activity

Once the campaign is funded, I will personally return to the school to oversee and ensure that every dollar is used to meet the needs outlined above. The funds will not go through any third party; I will directly coordinate their use on-site to resolve the most critical issues first.

These children live in a rural, agriculture-dependent area where many are pulled from school to work at a young age. Yet their love for learning remains unshaken. This is our opportunity to step in—to not just teach math, but to build hope. Let’s help ensure that no child’s potential is lost to circumstance. Let’s invest in a brighter, bolder future for these students—one rooted in education, opportunity, and compassion.