Diana's story

Nineteen-year-old Diana couldn't contemplate a world outside the life she was used to. Here she describes her life-changing experience, and how through Y Care International’s partner YMCA's civic empowerment project she has been trained to empower young people to use their influence in society. 

Diana

When she was young, Diana's family moved around for her father's work, but despite the disruption, she was never in want of anything. She describes her teenage years as “a bit cut off from reality”. “My parents would not let me go out alone so I didn't relate to others my age or see that their upbringing might be different from mine.”

After college she took part in a programme for Colombian young people that explored issues affecting them. This led to her involvement with the YMCA in 2005. Here too she found out about social problems in Colombian society and looked for solutions. “I’ve taken courses on subjects like domestic violence and psychological issues. I have grown personally and learnt to mix with others and respect different opinions.”

Diana is also discovering new things about herself. “I am creative as I can be very resourceful even when I have very little to work with. I am able to communicate in a specific way with children so they can grasp concepts easily.”

This is no easy task when you consider this includes topics such as overcoming drug abuse, family problems and stealing as a way of living. Diana's involvement has had as much of an impact on her as the communities she is in contact with. “I have learnt to relate with others and see new perspectives on things. It helps me tolerate or rise above adverse problems and know that if you persevere you will find answers.”

With the support of people like Diana, the YMCA can support young people and provide opportunities for them to participate in their communities. She says: “the YMCA is one of very few organisations involved with young people, helping them overcome problems without fear of prejudice.”