Migration often leads individuals and families to unexpected places. For Luz Dary, a 33-year-old Venezuelan mother of two, her quest for a new home brought her to Colombia, where she found empathy, and a sense of belonging in the midst of adversity.
Luz Dary’s migration story is one of resilience and determination. Leaving behind Venezuela, alongside her partner and two daughters, they initially sought a better life in Cauca, Colombia. However, faced with difficulties later in Peru, including xenophobia and challenges accessing education and healthcare for their eldest daughter, they returned to Colombia, settling in Cali, Valle del Cauca.
Their journey was far from smooth.
Robbed between Peru and Ecuador, they lost essential documents and all their money.
Amidst complex circumstances and relying on the kindness of others for food and lodging, Luz Dary vividly recalls the hardships, including her daughter’s prolonged illness due to poor food quality.
A change for the better
The turning point came when the family arrived in Nariño, southern Colombia, where they encountered a supportive community and assistance from social organisations, like SOS Children’s Villages.
Luz Dary expresses gratitude for the assistance received, describing the support as instrumental in overcoming challenges related to healthcare, education, and general guidance. She became part of the “Keeping Families Together” project, implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in two of the most important border areas of Colombia: Nariño and La Guajira.
Today, Luz Dary and her family have access to education for their daughters, healthcare services, mental health support, and essential resources such as clothing and food kits. The project focuses on strengthening families, aiming to prevent family separation and institutionalization of children or adolescents.
With her husband employed as a builder, the family’s life has become more stable. Both daughters attend school, enjoying a sense of normalcy and happiness. Ana, proud of her academic achievements, actively participates in her school’s environmental committee, showcasing the positive impact of their newfound stability.
Looking ahead, Luz Dary and her partner aspire to improve their economic situation, with dreams of setting up a food stand to sell red wine and arepas. Her goal is to establish her own business and secure a better quality of life for her family. Colombia has become their new home, providing the comfort and tranquillity they sought. Their only desire to return to Venezuela is to visit family left behind during their migration journey.
Luz Dary’s story exemplifies the transformative power of community support and resilience in the face of adversity, showcasing the potential for hope and a brighter future, even in the most challenging circumstances.
