Our time here is coming to an end in Puerto Colombia and these past five weeks have definitely been unforgettable. Puerto Colombia is a very special place alive with vibrant people, music, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Puerto Colombia is a pretty big community compared to the others in the Global Health track. Since it is big, there is a very large youth presence. Our biggest ally is the youth group Campamentos Juveniles. Together we discovered the lack of recreational activities for the youth here; therefore, there is a very big drug problem amongst the youth. Our second ally is Fundación Puerto Colombia. They have opened their doors to us as a space for youth to do activities at in their free time. Which now comes to our (awesome) CBIP. We were able to put together a team, Amigos de Puerto Colombia, made up of youth who are each designated a role with different responsibilities. The idea is to continue using the space at Fundación Puerto Colombia to do healthy, educational, and fun activities such as: our “Jueves de Jóvenes” where we put on a movie night, charlas, art classes, dance classes, board game tournaments etc. We want to occupy the free time of the youth here with enriching activities that will distract them from pursuing negative options and create a sense of community amongst them.

It’s incredible in such a short time how close you can become to people. It doesn’t matter about the language barriers, the color of your skin, or where you are from. They welcome you with open arms and leave you with a stomach full of arroz and a heart filled with love. The best part of this experience is the friendships that were made. Athough we may be across the world in different countries, states, or cities, they will always have a special place in my heart. But especially my Puerto Colombia team, nunca los olvidaré.