Week 3: 

Computer Workshops in the Media Lab

​We visited Sora throughout the mornings and afternoons. Every time we arrived, kids were there ready to learn! We visited 2 to 3 times a week, running interactive coding workshops using Scratch.

Ayudé a los niños individualmente. Les pregunté qué les gustaba y los guié para programar sus propias ideas. Para ayudarlos a entender la lógica, les sugerí metas claras: ¿Quieres programar un gol? ¡Vamos a hacer que el futbolista mueva la pierna!. Después, los animé a crear la secuencia de acciones ellos mismos. Las sesiones de la tarde con los niños más pequeños fueron más lentas y requirieron más paciencia.

*Sticking to a little challenge using a translator, but under the condition that I understand every word and form.

(Scratch Workshops)

​​The 8th Computer, no internet, no work done

​I was puzzled by the computer system in the Media Lab, regarding user accounts and safety filters. Worse, one computer lacked an internet connection, leaving us with only 7 usable screens for 8 kids.

​Determined to make all 8 available, I spent an hour on the phone with my dad (who works in IT) testing wires, sockets, and connections (sorry to the rest of our team who were waiting for me). With his guidance, I identified the network issue and passed my findings and recommendations to the Sora staff. Although we couldn't resolve it immediately, as I later learned the IT staff member, Santi, was on holiday. Marisol was grateful for the investigation and I left recommendations for internet safety filters as food for thought for when Santi returns. It was worth the attempt, showing me that taking initiative often means exploring every possibility even if the outcome isn't immediate. 

(Kids teaching us their game)

​Week 4: 

​Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival)

​Week 4 brought the amazing Feria de las Flores. Medellín was filled with decorations, festive events, and millions of fresh flowers. Waiting in the heat for the parade, one of the first groups to march were street sweepers and police officers. Everyone cheered loudly! It was heartwarming to see such public appreciation for everyday essential workers.

​My favorite part was the orchid exhibition at the Botanical Garden. Orchids are Colombia's national flower, and the variety was breathtaking, some were the size of my hand! Orchids are my mum's favorite flower, so I called her on video to share the moment. I realised then that special travel experiences have even greater value when shared with loved ones.

​While looking for a souvenir for her, I ended up in a long conversation with an orchid farmer. He shared his life dreams, his travels to Europe, and his awe at seeing snow for the first time. He also shared his personal perspectives on Colombian societal topics and regional differences, offering me a fascinating window into local life. (To clarify, I acted in line with my risk awareness form. He wanted to share, and I didn't ask any uncomfortable questions). 

Song: Me voy para Medellín 

(Me with a big orchid, photographed by Sophie)