Spoilt for travel: Some of my trips of 2024

As 2024 comes to an end, I take a moment to reflect on a year that has been both demanding and rewarding. It has been a year filled with professional challenges, personal milestones, and journeys that reminded me of the beauty and complexity of the world.

Humanitarian Work in Venezuela

This year, my humanitarian work took me to Venezuela, a country navigating profound socio-economic hardships. The experience tested my resilience and reaffirmed my commitment to humanitarian principles.

Every day brought new challenges: managing the allocation of resources, liaising with local and international partners, and witnessing the courage of Venezuelan communities who continue to inspire with their strength and dignity. I feel privileged to have contributed to global humanitarian efforts, which represent the collective commitment of the international community to alleviate suffering and uphold human dignity.

While the financial resources allocated to humanitarian action are significant, they do not reflect any inherent superiority—or at least, I hope this is not the case. Rather, they stand as a testament to the shared humanism that unites us—a recognition of our collective responsibility to help those in need. Many of us who contribute to these efforts have simply been fortunate to grow up in circumstances that enable us to provide support. Recognising this privilege is essential to ensuring that our work remains grounded in humility, respect, and a deep sense of global solidarity.

Personal Milestones: Embracing Dual Heritage

A personal highlight this year was obtaining Portuguese citizenship. Portugal has been a second home to me, offering a sense of belonging and enriching my life in countless ways. At the same time, I remain deeply grateful for what Poland—the country of my birth—has given me. Both nations have profoundly shaped who I am today, and I embrace them equally, recognising the unique cultures and values each offers.

Receiving Portuguese citizenship is not just a legal milestone but also a celebration of the experiences that have connected me to Portugal. One of the places that continues to captivate me is Funchal, with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning landscapes. Each visit there reinforces my appreciation for this beautiful country.

Unforgettable Travels

2024 also brought opportunities to explore the world and strengthen connections with loved ones. Early in the year, I travelled with my mother to Japan and Poland. In Japan, we explored the dynamic city of Kobe, where the blend of modernity and tradition was fascinating. Although I passed through Kyoto briefly by train, the sights from the window were enough to leave an impression of its historical grandeur.

Returning to Poland, particularly Nowy Sącz, was deeply moving. Walking through the streets of my hometown and revisiting places that shaped my early years was a poignant reminder of my roots and the journey that has brought me here.

Later in the year, I found myself in the Caribbean, taking a much-needed holiday. Barbados, with its stunning beaches and the UNESCO-listed Bridgetown, offered the perfect mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. A brief stop in Trinidad and Tobago also left a lasting impression, with its vibrant culture and warm hospitality.

Challenges and Opportunities

Of course, 2024 had its share of challenges. Humanitarian work, by its nature, often means grappling with difficult realities. The scale of crises and the complexity of addressing them can be overwhelming. Sometimes, our work is questioned—occasionally for good reasons—forcing us to reflect and adapt.

In these moments, the support of friends and colleagues has been invaluable. I am especially grateful to Tahir and his wife, Amna, whose friendship and wise counsel have been a source of strength this year. Their ability to listen and share perspective has reminded me of the importance of solidarity and connection.

I also found inspiration in the resilience of my friend Leonel, who recently migrated from Venezuela to Spain. Watching him navigate the challenges of starting a new life, finding his footing in a foreign country, and slowly building his confidence has been a powerful reminder of the human capacity for adaptation and hope. Supporting him through this transition has been both a privilege and a learning experience for me.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As I look to the future, my commitment to humanitarian work remains steadfast. Despite the challenges, I believe in the power of collective action to make a difference. The road is not always easy, but the resilience of the communities we serve, and the dedication of those working in this field, continue to inspire me to persevere.

On a personal level, I look forward to new opportunities for growth, travel, and connection. Whether through work, family, or moments of quiet reflection, I hope to embrace 2025 with the same openness and determination that carried me through this year.

Gratitude and New Year Wishes

To all who have shared this year with me—colleagues, friends, family, and the communities we work with—thank you. Your support and kindness have been invaluable.

Let us welcome 2025 with hope, courage, and a shared commitment to building a better world.

Wishing you a joyful New Year filled with peace, love, and meaningful moments!

Warm regards,
Roman

(As always, you can revisit some of these moments through the photos and stories shared here on the blog. Thank you for being part of this journey.)