An incident in the police force with explosives. An amputation of both hands. 20 years later, Rigoberto Zapata has found a new way to live independently, completing tasks that range from riding a motorcycle to playing table tennis. However, the smallest task poses the biggest challenge for Zapata: typing on a computer.

The Discoverer followed Riogberto Zapata through Day 2 of TOM, April 21, discussing his transport to the event, his opinions on how the event is running, and, most importantly, the work his team has achieved to help him achieve his goal of writing for his university, UdeA.

“I love studying, but in today’s world using technological devices in college is a necessity, and with my nubs, it is impossible for me to type without accidentally pressing various keys at the same time. The meetings with the team have left me with hopes that the device will be successful. I guess only time will tell,” Zapata said. 

The Need Knowers were provided with a means of transportation to get to school from the center of the city. Rigoberto, however, rode his motorcycle every day of the event. He has a prosthesis made up of two clips that allow him to ride it with no problem. Nonetheless, he complains about the prosthesis being too heavy and asks the team to make a prosthesis that is light and easy to use. 

“I am a really independent man. While all of the need-knowers came here with a partner or helper, I have driven myself here and back, and have no problem tackling daily life issues on my own,” Zapata said.

Rigoberto Zapata’s day starts as he arrives at school and is greeted by the “padrinos” and logistics organizers. They guide him through the event and give him a tour, making sure he knows where everything is and introducing him to his team members. 

“I really got to know Rigoberto and delve deep into his life. By showing him around and having deep conversations with him, I was able to learn about his interests and pursuits, becoming impressed by how he overcame the amputation and achieved success,” Maria Celeste Perez, Rigoberto’s “padrino,” said.

Rigoberto feels thrilled to interact with his team and get involved in the process of creating his prosthesis. He shares his ideas with the team, listens to their suggestions, and works collaboratively with them to design a personalized prosthesis that suits his needs. 

“I told my team that I would rather have a single velcro rather than two since with my nubs it is hard to put it on with two. They were really understanding of my necessity and adapted the prototype accordingly,” Zapata said.

Rigoberto’s day continues with long hours of working alongside his team to achieve his goal of being able to type on the computer. The team, composed of makers from TCS, professors and students from EIA, and members of El Comité de Antioquia, have taken on the challenge of fulfilling Rigoberto’s dream. 

“I love being a part of this team, they always ask for my opinion and listened to my ideas,” Zapata said.  

After eating snacks offered by the logistics team, Rigoberto takes a break from the prosthesis design process and heads to the table tennis table, one of his passions. The Makers of Tomorrow and other TOM participants are eager to play against him. Rigoberto feels in his element as he competes against the other players, and many people are amazed at his ability. His prosthetic gives him an edge, and he wins many matches. 

“Playing table tennis gives me a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. I am happy to share my love for the sport with others and to have shown that a physical disability is not a barrier to achieving one’s goals,” Zapata said.

After playing table tennis at the TOM event, Rigoberto feels the need to take a break from the busy atmosphere and the constant attention. He goes for a walk around the school, allowing him to clear his mind and find some peace and quiet. The event has many people involved, including photographers and interviewers who are all eager to capture the moment and get a glimpse of the action. Rigoberto’s teammates ask many questions, which makes it difficult for him to relax and recharge. 

“I often feel overwhelmed by the flurry of activity in the Colosseum. I had never gotten so much attention or appreciation, and although I am grateful for it, it is also heavy mentally and requires me to take some breaks. I am unable to do this in the Colosseum because whenever I sit down to read, someone reaches out to talk to me,” Zapata said.

After coming back from his break, Rigoberto meets with his team to discuss the progress on the prototype they’re building for him. As someone who needs two prosthetic fingers to type on a computer, Rigoberto is involved in the design process and shares his insights and ideas with his team. 

“As I work alongside my team to build this prototype, I remain positive and focused on the end goal of having a functional prosthetic that will allow me to continue working on my computer with ease,” Zapata said. 

Throughout the day, the logistics team ensures that he is well-fed and energized with an array of snacks and meals. The event is sponsored by multiple Colombian brands, including Tres Trigos, Postobon, Celsia, and Il Forno. These brands have provided food and drinks for the people participating in the event. 

“The TCS team has treated us wonderfully, always making sure we eat and are comfortable during the day. The food has been great and I always look forward to enjoying some snacks and chatting with my teammates,” Zapata said. 

The event comes to an end as the team begins to pack up for the night. Rigoberto takes this time to give the makers feedback on his prototype and ensure everything runs smoothly. 

“I have had an enjoyable experience working with the team. They have tailored the design and layout of the event to cater to my specific needs, providing me with all the necessary equipment and assistance to ensure a smooth and successful event,” Zapata said.

As the clock strikes 5 pm, Rigoberto knows it’s time to wrap up the day’s events and head back home. He gets ready to leave and makes his way to his motorcycle, which he knows will take him on a long ride back home.

Back at home, Rigoberto reflects on his busy day. Although he feels tired, he believes it was ultimately rewarding, as he has worked alongside his team to design a custom-made prosthesis, share his story, and meet incredible people who he will remember forever. Before going to sleep, he feels a sense of excitement for the next day at TOM, confident in the solution that his team is creating.

“I have never been part of such a beautiful community and well-planned event. Nothing compares to the joy that TOM brings me, and exhaustion becomes fulfillment as I reflect on the opportunity I got to experience,” Zapata reflected.