As A Little Girl Growing Up In Colombia

Growing up as a little girl in Colombia means learning to find joy in the cracks of hardship. She is taught to be pilas (sharp) but also cariñosa (loving). She plays hopscotch on sidewalks where, ten years earlier, paramilitaries might have walked. She dreams of being a doctor or a reina (queen). She grows up bilingual: one language of words, and another language of survival, rhythm, and loyalty to her tierra . She is not a victim of her context. She is, as Colombians say, a la orden —ready for whatever comes.

Growing up in Colombia was an incredible experience that shaped me into the person I am today. The warmth and hospitality of my people, the richness of our culture, and the beauty of our landscapes have left an indelible mark on my heart. I feel grateful to have grown up in such a wonderful country, and I hope to share these experiences with others, inspiring them to explore and appreciate the beauty of Colombia. as a little girl growing up in colombia

: Research in the Journal of Comparative Economics indicates that in early childhood, Colombian girls often outperform boys in developmental measures and social-behavioral skills. Growing up as a little girl in Colombia