My second week as a Laidlaw Scholar in Medellín has been a beautiful tapestry of learning, exploration, and inspiration. I have strengthened my understanding of Medellín and the region, Antioquia, while continuing to exercise my capacity to create social change with my peers, teammates, and local partners.

The rich culture, history, and patchwork of experiences of Medellín continues to amaze me, and my connection to the city is ever deepening. This past week I was able to visit with make_sense and on my own a number of interesting sites across Medellín such as a rural community center that has been making chance for 30 years, Casa de la Memoria, a museum hosting the memories of four decades of violence, and memorials to the victims and survivors of decades of narcoterrorism. Through these site visits, I have had the honor of speaking with those who have lived through the transformation of Medellín and come to even more deeply appreciate just how far the city has come. Despite initial difficulties in my linguistic journey - including a little mix-up where I claimed to study "tongue" instead of languages - my command of Spanish has improved, becoming a bridge to more authentic connections with locals and much greater cultural enrichment.

The end of the week and weekend offered a delightful escape to the enchanting town of Guatapé, an Antioquian jewel that sparkles with vivid houses, sparkling lakes, and breathtaking landscapes. The picturesque streets were a symphony of colors and designs, and the towering El Peñón de Guatapé stood as a natural masterpiece, offering an astonishing view from its summit. The experience began with make_sense's leadership camp, a series of activities that closely connected me with my peers while introducing powerful leadership tools that, in the weeks since, I have been employing in my project. Our acrobatic yoga activity allowed us to look inside of ourselves and learn to rely on one another while team kayaking encouraged us to practice communication, cooperation, and coordinator. My adventure in Guatapé was marked by activities that transcended a touristic experience; boating across serene waters, savoring the unique flavors of local coffee, and exploring the rich local culture became channels for deeper understanding and appreciation of this mesmerizing part of Colombia and the people who inhabit it.

Upon return to Medellín, I got back to work. The partnership with Sueños y Huellas, our collaborating organization, continued to be a source of profound fulfillment. Our project evolved, and the dynamics within my incredible team allowed me to exercise my burgeoning leadership skills as we began to recruit student volunteers to our project. Our collective vision, guided by shared commitment and fueled by the passionate pursuit of empowering the community, became more tangible with each passing day. Our shared effort is paving a path that we believe will make a real difference in the lives of many in Medellín.

This week has not just been a continuation of my journey but an elevation. From the bustling streets of the Boston neighborhood of Medellín to the tranquil beauty of the village of Guatapé, every moment has been an opportunity for growth and enlightenment. The challenges I have faced have transformed into stepping stones, the learning into wisdom, and the potential into action. My leadership capacity is expanding and my conviction that I can contribute positively to social change is no longer just a dream. Medellín's inspirational transformation, driven by the vision, passion, and devotion of great leaders and sustained by a committed public, and the vibrant culture of Antioquia kept alive by community elders and leaders resonate in my heart, shaping me as a scholar, leader, and global citizen.