The LiA was challenging before it even started.

Travelling alone for the first time on a long-distance journey can be exhilarating. As I embarked on my solo adventure from Tokyo to Mexico City, I found myself navigating unfamiliar airports and rushing between terminals to ensure I made my flights on time. The challenges were compounded by the fact that I could barely speak Japanese or Spanish, leaving me to rely on gestures and basic phrases to communicate. By the time I reached my accommodation in Roma Norte, Mexico City, exhaustion took over, resulting in a deep sleep that lasted for more than half a day.

I had the privilege of discussing with other scholars from diverse backgrounds. What struck me was their eagerness to share their perspectives. The seemingly simple discussion tasks, with just a few guiding questions, evolved into complex inquiries that required rigorous analysis and exploration. It was fascinating to witness how each scholar dissected and expanded upon these questions, delving deeper into the subject matter. The hour allocated for each discussion flew by as we unraveled layers of understanding and challenged our preconceptions. Beyond the academic setting, the connection among fellow scholars was heartwarming. I cherished the opportunities to engage in conversations with each group member. From discussing veganism and fitness routines to sharing personal struggles, we found common ground and built connections. Despite our contrasting personalities and backgrounds, we formed a cohesive and supportive community with active communication, often making plans as a group. Lunches together near the Impact Hub, a shared working space for local social entrepreneurs, became some highlights of our time. What delighted me even more was the chance to try delicious plant-based food at affordable prices, which seemed surprisingly cheaper than what I was accustomed to in Hong Kong.

Little did I know that the vegan-friendly culinary delights we find reasonably priced are often out of reach to most Mexicans. Following our cultural visit to Iztapalapa, I have realized how privileged we are to be in the security of Roma Norte, a 'posh neighbourhood' in Mexico City. The poverty-ridden area laid bare stark contrasts that I had overlooked while residing in the seemingly secure neighbourhood of Roma Norte. From the heights of Utopia Banco, an educational and recreational space, I gained a bird's-eye view of the vast disparity. Our visit to a farm in Utopia Liberte, another hub similar to the mentioned Utopia, housed rabbits raised for consumption, was a stark reminder of the realities faced by local communities --- veganism appeared to be a luxury reserved for the privileged few, myself included. The cable car ride further emphasized the contrasting landscapes of Iztapalapa. As we soared above the neighborhood, I witnessed a dense expanse of buildings adorned with beautifully painted rooftops. The narrow, seemingly unplanned roads stretched from the heart of Mexico City to the distant, potentially quarried hills. What I initially perceived as tourist sightseeing infrastructure revealed itself as a vital form of public transportation, shedding light on the diverse operational contexts of transportation systems worldwide. This eye-opening experience served as a humbling reminder of the privileges we often take for granted. It deepened my appreciation for the resilience and resourcefulness of the local communities, who navigate daily challenges with grace and determination to bridge the gap between privilege and necessity.

It was truly unexpected that one week into the LiA alone would already translate to completely novel experiences and insights. With newly established connections with fellow scholars and friendly locals, I am eager to manage my time well in the coming weeks, simultaneously enabling exploration of the city and hopefully making a small positive change with the partnering NGO.