In 2023, I partnered with Libia Edith to combine my passion for art and my Colombian heritage to address a social crisis. Through an entertainment event fundraiser, community partnerships in Aldana, and a group of passionate community leaders coming together, we were able to provide cultural immersion, engaging extracurriculars, and mental health and goal-setting workshops—helping youth build cultural pride, discover motivating passions, strengthen mental wellness, and develop the resilience to pursue their dreams despite trauma.

Overview

Sembrando Arte, Cosechando Esperanzas was created in response to a youth mental health crisis in Aldana, Colombia, where 11 adolescents lost their lives in 2023. The program offers holistic workshops addressing mental health through art and celebrating indigenous heritage, including ceramics, nature-inspired paintings, traditional music and dance, and sports. Activities are followed by guided mountain hikes with Cosecha offerings, a sacred ritual used as a tool for emotional healing and mental wellness. Through these culturally grounded experiences, alongside goal-setting and supportive workshops, youth build resilience, explore their passions, and strengthen their connection to community and culture—empowering them to envision brighter futures.

Program

Fundraising

We Raised $1,500 to fund the first cohort of program development through a full-scale fundraising campaign. The initiative included a traditional Colombian Christmas show in partnership with local artists, collaborations with 10 restaurants for food sales, and partnerships with three businesses and a local soccer team for auctions. Additional fundraising efforts included a GoFundMe campaign with an organizational video and a mini açaí bowl fundraiser.