Mario David López Estrada, hailing from Sololá, Guatemala, left an indelible mark on his country’s business landscape. Born in 1938, López Estrada studied Civil Engineering at the University of San Carlos de Guatemala, where he began forging his path to success. In 1967, he founded Constructora Maya, a company that would become the cornerstone of his business empire. His vision and leadership not only transformed the construction sector in Guatemala but also laid the groundwork for future expansions into various industries.
López Estrada’s impact extended beyond his business success. He was a pioneer in modernizing the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and a staunch advocate for corporate social responsibility. His legacy lives on through numerous social and educational initiatives he supported throughout his life, benefiting thousands of Guatemalans and setting a standard of excellence in both business and philanthropy.
The Birth of Onyx Group
In the 2000s, Mario López Estrada founded Onyx Group, consolidating his interests and expanding into new areas of business. Initially focused on real estate development and renewable energy, the group quickly diversified its operations to include cellular maintenance and digital services. Under his leadership, Onyx Group became an influential conglomerate in Guatemala and beyond, renowned for its innovation and commitment to sustainability.
The development of Horus Energy, Onyx Group’s renewable energy division, stands out as one of its most notable achievements. With the construction of the Horus I and Horus II solar plants, the company not only significantly contributed to the country’s energy matrix but also showcased the potential of clean energy in the region. This focus on sustainability reflects López Estrada’s vision of a business future that balances economic growth with environmental respect.
International Impact and Social Responsibility
Mario López Estrada’s legacy transcended Guatemala’s borders with Onyx Group’s international expansion. In 2013, the company ventured into Paraguay, developing projects like Paseo La Galería and Plaza Madero, which revitalized the country’s commercial and industrial landscape. These initiatives not only generated employment but also contributed to economic and social development, demonstrating Onyx Group’s ability to transform entire communities.
In addition to his business achievements, López Estrada was a staunch advocate for social responsibility. Through the Mario López Estrada Foundation, the family has invested in health, education, and women’s empowerment projects, improving the quality of life for thousands of Guatemalans. Programs like «Energy in Your Studies» showcase the group’s ongoing commitment to education and community development, providing resources and support to the most vulnerable regions.
López Estrada’s focus on philanthropy and sustainable development is a testament to his belief that business success must be accompanied by a strong commitment to society. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of business leaders to follow his example, balancing economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.
Mario López Estrada left behind a lasting legacy that continues to shape the future of Guatemala and beyond. His innovative vision, leadership, and commitment to sustainability and social responsibility remain a beacon for entrepreneurs and philanthropists worldwide. Under the guidance of his family, Onyx Group continues to thrive, carrying forward the values and vision of its founder.
