In the village of Catandica, in Báruè district, life has never been easy for Izaquel Mário. At just 18 years old and having studied up to the eighth grade, the future seemed uncertain and full of limited opportunities. In a place where employment is scarce, many young people end up losing hope far too early. 
Izaquel’s life began to change when he was selected to take part in a training course promoted under the DELPAZ programme, in cooperation with district authorities, within the framework of local economic development. The son of a former RENAMO combatant saw at this opportunity a door opening to a new path. He travelled to Chimoio with other young people and chose to study metalwork at IFPELAC. 
It was two intense weeks, full of learning. Although short, it gave him the foundations of a profession and, above all, the possibility of believing in a different future. Izaquel is shy and does not speak Portuguese well, but when he expresses himself in his local language, he speaks with confidence — and it is there that his determination becomes clear.
Always by his side is his father, Mário Amadeu, a man of clear ideas and great sense of responsibility. With twelve children, he knows well the value of opportunity. “We must help our young people find a path,” he says. “Without work, what can they do? If we do not give them opportunities, they risk going down the wrong paths.” Mário Amadeu is one of the DDR participants under the 2019 Maputo Agreement. He had already been demobilised in 1994, after the signing of the 1992 General Peace Agreement, having joined the struggle in 1982 in Sofala province. Today he only wants peace. 
After the training and receiving the work kit, the father realised it would not be easy for Izaquel to start on his own. Two weeks were not enough to master the trade. He therefore decided to seek help from a master metalworker to begin the activity.
He recruited Alberto Linosse Macolone, who learned the trade of metalwork in Zimbabwe but had never had the opportunity to work upon returning. When he received the proposal, he accepted immediately.
Today, Izaquel and Alberto, under the supervision of father Mário, work in a small workshop located at the entrance to Catandica, along the N6. The space was provided free of charge by a local trader, which is a great help. Through effort, they began producing iron chairs, wheelbarrows and window grilles. 
Income: a chair is sold for 250 meticais, a wheelbarrow for 2,500, and the grilles bring in around 500 meticais for labour. It is not much, but it is enough to secure the essentials.
More importantly, it is the beginning of a new story. Amid the sound of iron being shaped and daily work, Izaquel is not just learning a trade — he is building his future. And his father Mário can dedicate himself to his small farm, always keeping an eye on the roadside workshop.