Returning to Milan for my final week was a bittersweet experience. It’s hard to believe how quickly time has flown by. The stark cultural differences between Milan and Castel Volturno were even more apparent upon my return, highlighting the diversity within Italy. This week was a mix of reflection, appreciation, and farewells.
What went well?
Wrapping up my time in Italy with a send-off dinner with the whole team was a perfect conclusion. The dinner was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our collective efforts and the progress we made. It was heartwarming to reflect on the journey and the connections formed over the weeks. The transition back to Milan allowed me to see the project from a different perspective, appreciating the unique experiences in both cities.
What could have been done differently?
Not much really, it was a great week and great ending to an amazing experience
What did I learn about myself while working with others?
I learned to appreciate the richness of cultural diversity even more. The contrast between Milan and Castel Volturno was striking, yet each place had its unique charm and lessons to offer. This experience reinforced my adaptability and my ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The emotional journey of the past weeks also taught me resilience and the importance of self-care.
What did I learn about leadership?
Leadership involves recognizing and valuing the diverse experiences and backgrounds of your team and the communities you serve. The send-off dinner was a reminder of the power of community and teamwork. Celebrating successes and acknowledging everyone's contributions fosters a positive and supportive environment. This experience has shown me the importance of leading with empathy, inclusivity, and a genuine appreciation for cultural diversity.
What do I want to develop and focus on next?
As I move forward, I want to take the insights and experiences from this project and apply them to future endeavors. I plan to continue exploring the dynamics of cultural diversity and immigrant experiences in different contexts. Additionally, I want to focus on refining my skills in emotional resilience and reflective practice, ensuring I can support both myself and those I work with effectively. Lastly, I aim to stay connected with the people and communities I’ve met, maintaining the relationships and continuing to learn from them.
Tito Mafikuyomi is a passionate researcher and advocate dedicated to advancing mental health and healthcare equity. With a diverse background in research and program coordination, she has worked on projects addressing systemic barriers to healthcare, improving mental health resources for elite athletes, and empowering racialized students in healthcare professions.
As a Program Coordinator for racialized students in healthcare, Tito designed mentorship programs that supported and inspired underrepresented youth to pursue careers in the field. Her research experience includes investigating healthcare access challenges for immigrant women in Italy, developing mental health frameworks for global sporting events, and conducting studies on the mental health needs of Black undergraduate students.
A Laidlaw Scholar and recipient of the InLight Student Mental Health Grant, Tito is committed to creating inclusive, community-focused solutions that address disparities and elevate the voices of marginalized communities. Her work reflects a dedication to building equitable systems that foster resilience and opportunity.
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