Venezuela’s Earthquake: A Bricklayer Finds Purpose in the Rubble

Yerfenson Torres, a 29-year-old bricklayer from Catia, Venezuela, joined rescue efforts in La Guaira immediately following the June 24th earthquake. Torres, without formal training or specialized equipment, felt compelled to help search for survivors, believing the first hours were critical. He quickly mobilized a volunteer brigade, “Pico y Pala” (Pick and Shovel), comprised of students and citizens from across Venezuela, working tirelessly alongside professional rescue teams.

Torres’s construction experience proved valuable, allowing him to assess structural risks and guide volunteers. He continued assisting even after dislocating his shoulder, prioritizing the search for those trapped. He observed the lack of preparedness for such disasters in Venezuela, and now intends to create a permanent volunteer group at the Universidad Central de Venezuela to improve the country’s disaster response capabilities.

The experience underscored the importance of community solidarity and left Torres with a renewed sense of purpose, recognizing the value of collective action in times of crisis.