La Paz, Bolivia; January 2020

At the end of January 2020, after completing my humanitarian mission in Ecuador, I travelled to Bolivia. This visit had a dual purpose—to assess recovery projects following the devastating forest fires and to visit migration centres in La Paz, where Venezuelan refugees and migrants were seeking support.

Throughout the trip, I was assisted by AnaMaria and Sylvia, whose expertise, dedication, and deep knowledge of the region were invaluable. Their support made the journey not only more effective but also more enriching, as we navigated Bolivia’s complex humanitarian landscape together.

This trip was another powerful reminder of human resilience—whether among displaced families striving to rebuild their lives or communities recovering from environmental disasters, the determination to move forward despite challenges was inspiring.

La Paz – A City of Asylum and Struggle

We began our mission in La Paz, visiting refugee and migration centres, which were providing assistance mainly to Venezuelan migrants. It was eye-opening to see how local communities and organisations were trying to support those in need, despite limited resources, bureaucratic obstacles, and legal uncertainties. Many Venezuelans had arrived with little more than hope, seeking stability in a country that, despite its own struggles, had become a place of refuge.

Despite these challenges, the spirit of solidarity was everywhere. Volunteers were offering language courses, job training, and legal advice, helping people integrate into Bolivian society. The humanitarian response was largely grassroots-driven, showing the power of community-led initiatives in times of crisis.

Beyond the refugee centres, I took time to absorb the city itself. La Paz is extraordinary—perched high in the Andes, its steep streets, sprawling markets, and dramatic landscapes make it unlike any other capital. The teleférico cable cars, gliding over the city, offered breathtaking views of Illimani Mountain, a snow-capped guardian towering over the valley.

Santa Cruz, Roboré, and San José de Chiquitos – Recovering from the Fires

After La Paz, we flew to Santa Cruz, Bolivia’s largest and most dynamic city. From there, we travelled deeper into Chiquitania, an area that had been severely affected by forest fires the previous year.

Roboré and San José de Chiquitos were among the worst-hit areas. We visited communities that had lost homes, farmland, and livelihoods, yet were working hard to rebuild. The focus was not only on recovery but also on strengthening resilience—ensuring that future fires would not be as devastating. Efforts included improved fire prevention strategies, reforestation projects, and training for local emergency response teams.

One of the things I enjoyed most during these field visits was observing the stunning architecture of small towns and villages. San José de Chiquitos, in particular, stood out—its beautifully preserved Jesuit Mission architecture, with elegant wooden churches and wide colonial streets, was a fascinating blend of European and indigenous influences.

Connecting with Indigenous Communities

What made this trip even more special was the opportunity to interact with indigenous communities. Their knowledge of the land, traditional farming techniques, and deep connection to nature were invaluable in shaping local resilience efforts. They welcomed us with warmth, sharing their stories and perspectives, which provided insights that no report or briefing could ever capture.

Their ancestral wisdom played a key role in sustainable land management, particularly in areas affected by the fires. Learning from them was a reminder that disaster recovery is not just about rebuilding—it’s about preserving traditions, adapting to change, and empowering local voices.

A Meaningful Conclusion

After completing our mission, I flew back to Panama City from Viru Viru Airport, reflecting on everything I had witnessed in Bolivia. This trip, like so many before, reinforced the importance of community-led recovery efforts—whether for displaced people seeking refuge in La Paz or for rural families rebuilding after environmental disasters.

Despite the hardships, there was hope, strength, and a determination to move forward—proof that even in the face of immense challenges, human resilience knows no bounds.

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Quito, Ecuador; January 2020

Right after Tahir left Panama, in January 2020, I embarked on my humanitarian deployment to Ecuador. This trip was particularly exciting because it was my first time visiting the country, and I was eager to experience its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the vital humanitarian work taking place there.

Adding to the excitement, I was finally going to visit AnaMaria, a close colleague and friend who is permanently based in Ecuador. Having collaborated remotely for so long, it felt special to finally meet in person. To make the trip even better, I was travelling with Nicolas, another fantastic colleague and friend, who joined me from Panama.

Quito – The First Encounter with Ecuador

Our journey began in Quito, Ecuador’s high-altitude capital, where we held various meetings related to our humanitarian work. Despite the work commitments, we managed to find time to explore the city, which immediately captivated me.

Quito is a city of striking contrasts—its colonial heart, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, grand plazas, and beautifully preserved churches, while the modern parts of the city pulse with contemporary life. Walking through Plaza Grande, surrounded by historic buildings and lively street vendors, I felt an immediate connection to Ecuador’s past and present.

The views from El Panecillo, a hill overlooking the city, were breathtaking. From there, we could see the Andean peaks stretching beyond the city limits, a reminder of Ecuador’s dramatic geography.

The Road to the Earthquake-Affected Areas

After our time in Quito, we set off by car towards the regions affected by a past earthquake, where we were tasked with evaluating recovery projects. This part of the journey was both humbling and awe-inspiring—a chance to witness the resilience of communities rebuilding their lives while travelling through some of the most spectacular landscapes Ecuador has to offer.

Driving through Parroquia Pilahuín, we passed vast high-altitude plains dotted with herds of llamas and alpacas. Yes, I had to stop and question myself—are these llamas? Their fluffy coats and curious gazes were a charming sight against the majestic backdrop of Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak. Chimborazo is often called the closest point on Earth to the Sun, due to the planet’s equatorial bulge, and seeing it in person was an unforgettable experience.

Chillanes and Bolívar Province – Community Resilience

Our destination was Chillanes, a town in Bolívar Province, where we were briefed on ongoing recovery efforts and visited communities affected by the earthquake. Despite the hardships these communities had endured, what stood out most was their strength and determination. People were actively rebuilding their homes, improving infrastructure, and finding ways to restore their livelihoods.

As we toured different villages and towns in Bolívar Province, we saw firsthand how humanitarian aid and reconstruction projects were making a tangible difference. Meeting local families and hearing their stories made the work we were doing feel even more meaningful.

Back to Quito – Preparing for the Next Leg

After days in the field, we returned to Quito, where I had some time to reflect before continuing my journey. Ecuador had left a deep impression on me—from its warm people to its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. But this trip wasn’t over yet; after a few days, I was off to Bolivia for the next part of my humanitarian mission.

This first visit to Ecuador was an unforgettable experience, blending meaningful work, friendships, and awe-inspiring landscapes. It was a reminder of why I do what I do—helping communities rebuild and ensuring that people affected by crises receive the support they need. I left Ecuador knowing that it would not be my last time here.

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The end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020 brought a wonderful opportunity for a reunion with Tahir—this time, in Panama. After months of planning, we finally arranged for him to visit from Canada, and seeing him step off the plane in Panama City was a moment of pure joy. He had left the freezing Toronto winter behind and landed straight into the heart of the tropics, an experience that in itself was something unforgettable.

These two weeks together flew by too quickly, but they were filled with celebrations, reunions, and incredible explorations—from city life in Panama City to the lush highlands of Volcán and the serene beaches of Boca Chica and Río Hato.

Panama City – A Festive Reunion

We kicked off Tahir’s visit with Christmas and New Year celebrations in Panama City, sharing the joy with friends, some of whom—like Alessandro—still remembered him from his time in Bangkok. The city was alive with holiday spirit, illuminated by festive lights, while fireworks lit up the skyline as we welcomed 2020 together.

Panama City is a place where history and modernity exist side by side. We strolled through Casco Viejo, the city’s historic quarter, where colonial-era buildings, charming plazas, and rooftop bars offered the perfect setting for catching up. Nearby, the towering skyline of the modern financial district stood in stark contrast, reminding us of the city’s rapid growth. And, of course, no visit to Panama City would be complete without stopping by the Panama Canal, where we watched massive cargo ships navigate the locks, a feat of engineering that never ceases to impress.

Gamboa – Into the Heart of the Jungle

Leaving the city behind, we headed to Gamboa, a small town on the edge of the Panama Canal Zone, known for its untamed rainforest and rich biodiversity. This was a stark contrast to the city’s urban buzz—here, we were surrounded by towering trees, dense jungle, and the sounds of exotic wildlife. We took a boat trip along the Chagres River, spotting toucans, howler monkeys, and even a few crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. The highlight, however, was seeing Tahir experience the jungle for the first time—his fascination with the raw beauty of nature was contagious.

Paso Ancho, Cerro Punta, and Volcán – Exploring the Highlands

Wanting to show Tahir a completely different side of Panama, we made our way towards Paso Ancho, Cerro Punta, and Volcán, a region near the Costa Rican border. Unlike the tropical heat of Panama City, the highlands offered crisp, cool air, rolling green hills, and coffee farms stretching as far as the eye could see.

One of the most special moments of the trip happened in Volcán, where Tahir had the chance to interact with a sloth up close. Watching him gently hold and observe the slow-moving creature, with its endearing expression and unhurried movements, was a moment of pure joy. Sloths are iconic to Central America, and seeing one in such an intimate setting was a rare and beautiful experience.

Cerro Punta, the highest town in Panama, was another highlight. Known as the breadbasket of Panama, the region is famous for its fertile volcanic soil, producing a large portion of the country’s fruits and vegetables. Walking through the terraced farms and mist-covered valleys, we took in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, a side of Panama that most visitors never get to see.

Las Naranjos and Boca Chica – Quiet Escapes

We also took time to explore Las Naranjos, a peaceful area surrounded by coffee plantations and cloud forests. The scenery was stunning—rolling hills, flowering plants, and hummingbirds darting between the trees. It was the perfect place for long walks and quiet moments, appreciating the stillness of nature.

From there, we made our way to Boca Chica, a hidden coastal paradise along the Pacific. With its tiny islands, turquoise waters, and untouched beaches, it felt like stepping into a postcard. We took a boat out to one of the secluded islands, where we spent the day swimming in crystal-clear waters and soaking in the sun.

Río Hato – A Farewell by the Sea

Before Tahir’s visit came to an end, we made one last stop at Río Hato, a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts. It was the perfect place to slow down and savour our last few days together. We spent our time walking along the shore, watching the sunset over the Pacific, and simply appreciating the company of a dear friend before parting ways once again.

A Visit That Ended Too Soon

Two weeks in Panama passed in the blink of an eye, filled with laughter, adventure, and meaningful reunions. Seeing Tahir experience Panama for the first time, moving between bustling cities, remote jungles, and coastal escapes, made the trip even more special.

As he boarded his flight back to Canada, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for these moments—proof that, no matter where life takes us, some friendships remain strong, stretching across continents, time zones, and changing seasons.

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