Guatemala was not an unknown choice for me. I had already gotten to know the country and its fascinating culture in 2018. I was immediately captivated by nature with its majestic volcanoes, lush green landscapes, clear lakes, and mysterious lagoons. The diversity and warmth of the Guatemalan people had already touched me in 2018. I have always been fascinated by the openness and sense of community in Latin American countries.
My decision to work at NPH Guatemala as a Communications and Volunteer Assistant allowed me to gain new experiences in social media, photography, and story writing, as well as to share the stories and experiences of NPH’s children and youth with a wider audience. I was responsible for documenting the daily activities through photography, writing reports and articles for the international NPH platform, and managing the social media channels. These tasks required not only creativity and commitment but also a deep understanding of the children’s needs and stories. The time when my boss and friend, Sofia, went on maternity leave, and I was able to take on the responsibility was particularly challenging and instructive at the same time. This phase not only strengthened my communication skills but also my self-confidence and my ability to work under pressure. I learned to make decisions independently and take responsibility, which helped me personally and professionally.
My group of children during my time at NPH Guatemala was Juan Batista, the house for the older boys at NPH. Not only did I spend most of my time here, but I built a deep connection with the boys. Gaining the trust of these young men was no easy task, but every day was worth it. The connections I made are deep, and I am convinced that some will last a lifetime. We shared not only everyday life but also moments of joy, learning, and challenges. I learned a lot about their dreams, their fears, and their hopes, which had a lasting impact on my perspective on life. I did lots of different activities with the young people; we cooked together, played games, had lots of conversations, danced, sang, and laughed. This year, I also invited the group to get to know Lake Atitlan and a water park, as it is important to me that they get out and experience things that are not normally taken for granted.
This year at NPH Guatemala was a time of personal growth and inner reflection. I learned to practice patience, especially when dealing with children and adolescents who have often had traumatic experiences and are slow to open up. I developed a deep appreciation for the small advances and moments of happiness that often lay in the simple moments of being together.
The multicultural environment at NPH was another enriching experience. I learned how to adapt to other ways of thinking and living, and in the process, how to consolidate my own identity. Dealing respectfully with different traditions and values was an educational experience that strengthened my intercultural competence and deepened my understanding of global connections.
Of course, a year at NPH Guatemala also brought emotional challenges. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, characterized by highs and lows, joy and sadness, hope and despair. Everyday life at NPH was intense and sometimes overwhelming, but I learned how to deal with and grow from these emotions. Every day was a reminder of how precious life is and how important it is to care for one another.
Outside of my work, I also had the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Guatemala firsthand. From the colorful markets and traditional festivals to the breathtaking landscapes, Guatemala offered me a wealth of impressions and experiences. The warmth and hospitality of the Guatemalan community made my stay very special and allowed me to immerse myself more deeply in the country’s culture and way of life.
I am deeply grateful for all the people who made my year at NPH Guatemala so special. From my friend and boss Sofy and uncles/aunts (tios as we call them here) who have supported me, to the volunteers who have lived with me and shared everything, to the children who have touched my heart and enriched my world, everyone has helped make this experience unforgettable. They showed me that true generosity is giving of yourself without expecting anything in return.
This experience at NPH Guatemala has broadened my mindset and shown me what is truly important in life. It has strengthened me to advocate for social justice and people’s rights and encouraged me to stay active in the future. I would recommend every young person to have an experience like this. It opens your eyes to new perspectives, gives you unforgettable memories and insights, and helps to create a world in which every child has the chance of a happy and secure future.