At 67, Juan Guanuna is a familiar face at Newark Liberty International Airport, where he greets travelers with a warm smile and a FIFA volunteer badge that gleams with pride.
Roots in Ecuador
Born in the Andes of Ecuador, Juan spent his earliest years watching his father chase a ball on dusty fields, a simple childhood that planted a lifelong love for the beautiful game.
A New Chapter in California
In 1977, he crossed the Pacific, settling first in California, where he built a community around soccer by coaching a local youth team and sharing his passion with a new generation.
The Unexpected Volunteer Call
When a last‑minute email from FIFA invited volunteers for the upcoming World Cup, Juan seized the chance, envisioning a stint at the iconic MetLife Stadium that would bring his soccer dreams to life.
Uniforms, Gifts, and a Viral Moment
The uniform arrived in a personal package from FIFA, complete with handwritten notes that Juan treasures; a short video of him trying it on sparked a wave of online admiration.
Service at Newark Airport
Instead of the stadium, he was assigned to Newark Airport, where he now assists arriving passengers, offering directions and a friendly welcome that reflects his own journey of arrival.
Balancing Business and Volunteering
By day he runs J & G Technical Services, a modest machine shop he founded, juggling its demands with his weekend shifts at the airport, a testament to his relentless work ethic.
World Cup Hopes and Future Plans
As the tournament approaches, Juan plans to cheer for all South American sides, especially Ecuador, and hopes to attend the highly anticipated clash against Germany, a match he calls a dream come true.
For Juan, the volunteer role is more than a badge; it is a lifelong aspiration realized, a honor that underscores the power of perseverance and love for soccer.