A number of visits and conversations with a variety of people during the first week already gave me a much better understanding of Medellin and its history. One of the most impactful experiences I had during week 1 was a tour of Communa 13, which gave us massive insights into the amazing story of hope and change embodied in Medellin. Despite its history of involvement in drugs and criminal gangs, the commune being a self-built neighbourhood with a lack of state support, we saw first hand its beauty, vibrancy and explosive energy. There were a plethora of amazing walls covered in street art and graffiti; dancers, rappers, singers and performers lining every street; children and young people with immense talent. However, we learnt that this was not all there was to the community, which had been victim to many violences and tragedies. However, we learnt that much of the incredible change which had occurred in the community had come about through a focus on the arts and educating and fostering dreams in the younger generations which had reduced involvement in drug-related crime and gangs. Although it was clear that there was much more to be achieved in the process of dissolving divide between the city and rural area, all in all, the visit taught us a lot about the history of specific communities. It also gave us a broader frame-work to think about when dealing with the issues of our specific projects.