The journey through the heart of Mexico begins here. Science communicator América Valenzuela joins the acciona.org Foundation to discover that other vast and remote Mexico, taking research from the “papers” to the field. Together, they’ll visit communities where the Foundation delivers sustainable energy, clean water, and appropriate sanitation—driving progress for those living in the most hard-to-reach areas of the country.

In the community of Rancho la Palma, Oaxaca, we discover a perfect example of a circular home: solar-powered lighting and an eco-friendly dry toilet that reduces waste and improves family health. But the journey comes with challenges—an unexpected event will test the spirit of collaboration, not only among the team, but within the entire community.

These are communities so remote that building materials can only be carried in by hand. Yet the reward far outweighs the effort, as life is completely transformed for families gaining access to electricity, clean water, and proper sanitation. In the Oaxacan community of San José Arroyo Copete, we get a first-hand look at what a truly ecological kitchen looks like—and América Valenzuela learns how to make traditional corn tortillas.

Electricity brings health and prosperity—not just to homes, but to small businesses as well. Like Doña Honorina’s shop, now able to supply her community with refrigerated goods thanks to sustainable electricity. From there, we travel to the community of Villa Nueva, also in Oaxaca, where we take part in a community assembly, explore the value of tequio (collective labor), and join the effort to build a dry toilet.

Before wrapping up this journey, we head to San Luis Potosí. Our final night is spent in the remote community of Sierra Fría, awaiting us at the end of a long and steep road. There, we encounter a new culture, a breathtaking environment—and a final surprise. It’s clear that this journey is far from over, and that the mission to bring essential services to Mexico’s most remote communities continues to transform lives.