Meet the Boxing Family Fighting to Improve the Lives of Young People in Mexico
The Ramirez family in Ecatepec de Morelos, Mexico, is on a mission to transform the lives of young people in their community. Their unique approach involves using boxing as a means to keep children away from the streets and potential criminal activities. Gym Ramirez, located under a busy bridge, serves as a sanctuary for aspiring boxers who seek discipline and guidance. Miguel Ramirez, the family patriarch and founder of the gym, believes in the power of boxing to provide an alternative path for youth in a crime-ridden area.
Miguel, a former boxer himself, understands the challenges faced by the young people in Ecatepec. He wants to offer them a different perspective and teach them the valuable life lessons that boxing provides. As a coach, Miguel takes on various roles, from being a father figure to acting as a psychologist, doctor, and therapist to his students. For him, the growth and development of each student are deeply personal, as they become an integral part of his extended family.
The gym not only offers boxing training but also serves as a refuge for those in need. There are times when young people face financial difficulties, which prevent them from affording meals or attending training sessions. In such cases, Miguel steps in, offering his support and mentorship in exchange for their dedication and commitment to the sport.
Miguel’s passion and expertise have led to numerous achievements for the young boxers he trains. He has been named manager of the year three years in a row, as his boxers consistently excel in local and national competitions, bringing home medals for the city. His commitment to their safety is unwavering, and he takes proactive measures to ensure they are properly prepared for the challenges they may face in the ring.
Fernanda Michele RamÃrez Pérez, Miguel’s daughter, is a former fighter turned boxing coach. With over a decade of experience, she takes pride in positively influencing the lives of young people who seek refuge at Gym Ramirez. Fernanda recognizes the importance of teaching self-defense to combat bullying and believes that boxing has the potential to bring about positive changes in individuals’ lives.
The Ramirez family’s impact extends beyond the walls of the gym and into the wider community. Through their passion for boxing and dedication to guiding young people away from crime, they inspire others to make positive changes in their own lives. Miguel hopes that every young person in the area finds the motivation to choose a better path and create a brighter future for themselves.
The Ramirez family’s story serves as a powerful example of how a shared passion can transform lives and uplift communities. Their commitment to the young people of Ecatepec de Morelos shines through in every aspect of their work at Gym Ramirez. Through boxing, they offer not only physical training but also invaluable life skills that can shape a brighter future for the youth in their community.
