Max Lizano’s life in El Salvador revolved around education and a passion for change. As an agricultural
engineer, he was struck by the disparity between the balanced diets he prepared for livestock and the
malnutrition faced by rural workers. His work in rural communication and agriculture intersected with
politics during the 1980s, leading him into activism despite his father’s warnings. When political violence escalated, Max fled with his wife and daughter, enduring a treacherous journey through Mexico. After crossing into the U.S., they faced frightening experiences, feeling like “prey in the jaws of coyotes.” In Buffalo, they navigated a difficult immigration process at a refugee centre, ultimately securing refugee status in Canada in 1991. Starting anew, Max learned English, pursued agricultural training, and became a Spanish instructor at Queen’s University. Over two decades, he taught, wrote novels and poetry, and inspired many. His journey reflects resilience and a commitment to meaningful change.