"You can't love what you don't know, and you can't feel passionate about what you don't understand" - @Daniela Garavito 

Learning about Medellín

My first week in Medellín, Colombia, conducting a leadership-in-action project hosted by make_sense, has been a mix of new experiences and reflection. The initial days were all about getting familiar with the program, the country, and the overarching themes of peace and social resilience. The make_sense team, particularly Daniela and David, have been instrumental in this process, sharing their vast knowledge about Medellín and the many facets of social volunteering and charity work.

One of the most impactful experiences this week was our visit to the Museo Casa de las Memorias (House of Memory Museum). This museum is a political and social project developed to represent communities affected by violence and to celebrate resilience in Medellín. Created by the Commission of Truth and hundreds of locals, it shares the stories of those who have endured violence. Many parts of the museum were honestly hard to put into words—it’s more of a feeling. Our guide, Simon, explained the meticulous care that went into the architecture, both inside and out. For example, as you enter the main room, you are faced with a mirror, prompting a moment of self-reflection.

“It is not just about surviving but also about living, and this museum is a testament to that.” - @David Gaviria Acevedo 

Medellín's history is complex having faced many difficulties within its politics, economy and geography. The city’s geography, surrounded by the Andes Mountains, once served as a strategic advantage for cartels. However, the same geography now symbolizes hope and renewal. The implementation of innovative urban projects, such as the escalators and metro system connecting impoverished neighbourhoods to the city centre, has played a crucial role in bridging economic disparities and fostering social cohesion. 

At the museum, we met a woman named Selina, who introduced us to the practice of creating an 'Adiato'. This involves placing soil on a cloth with a seed and a word that reflects something you wish to grow and flourish. I chose 'community'. We then tied the cloth and buried it, allowing a tree to grow and carry our intentions into the earth. This practice resonated deeply with me, encapsulating the spirit of Medellín’s journey of resilience and strength.

Working with Sueños y Huellas

A key component of my project is collaborating with Sueños y Huellas, an organization dedicated to guiding, supporting, and empowering people at risk and in social vulnerability. Founded in 2014, Sueños y Huellas just celebrated its 10th anniversary (woop woop!). The organisation has three main projects:

• Childhood in Family: Providing comprehensive support to children from boarding houses in Medellín through food, education, and security.
• A Hand on the Way: Offering support to young women aged 16-24 who have completed drug rehabilitation programs.
• Transformation: Giving international volunteers the opportunity to experience Medellín while collaborating with the local community.

Working alongside two other Laidlaw Scholars, @Echo Yongqi Luo and @Pui Yan Lee Michelle, our goal is to support the non-profit with funding and communication strategies over the next five weeks. But first, to find the right answers, we must ask lots and lots of questions. Addressing complex issues like funding, especially within a cultural context foreign to us, requires thorough understanding. (Especially with our rough around-the-edges Spanish speaking skills). However, the make_sense team has been guiding us through a thoughtful process that prioritizes empathy and ideation. We are starting by understanding the organization internally, its beneficiaries, stakeholders, and the broader social context. I am eager to work with such an incredible organization and contribute to their mission of supporting the people of Medellín. If you are interested in learning more about Sueños y Huellas, check out their website - which was actually designed by Laidlaw Scholars last year!

Exploring Medellín

Beyond the project, I’ve had the chance to explore this vibrant city, soaking in its culture and stunning landscapes. Medellín is much hotter than Leeds, and so far, I’ve managed to avoid sunburn (fingers crossed it stays that way!). From watching Colombia reach the finals in Copa America, visiting the botanical gardens, and spending almost three hours on a basic food shop (Exito Wow did not disappoint), I’m trying to absorb as much as possible during my time here. It’s a privilege to be in such an amazing place, and I am looking forward to the weeks ahead.