Alejandra was born in Usulutan, El Salvador. At only twelve years old, she is already a skilled worker to collect curiles and small mollusks.

Alejandra wakes up as early as 5 A.M. and works for 14 hours a day without adequate protection or care. Even in harsh weather, illness, and injuries, she collects shells. All this endearment earns her only $1.40 per day, which is 10 cents an hour. 

Alejandra suffers from low self-esteem and social exclusion. Her work marks her identity. Without proper education or time with her friends or family, she lacks any type of interactions. Feeling isolated, she views her life as a tunnel without an exit. 

However, Alejandra also has a dream. Although she can not attend school, she has a dream to get a proper job that will help her feed and support her 7 other siblings.