Walking the Way with Others Transforms You, Too
This is Virginia, a volunteer at Vínculos Project at Fundación Asha-Kiran in Málaga. Today, she is sharing her experience as a mentor with us.
“Being a mentor has taught me that integration goes far beyond helping someone adapt to a new country. For me, it has meant being there for others, listening, sharing, and creating moments that leave a lasting impression.
I’ve learned that the simplest experiences—like a themed meal, a celebration, or a group activity—can become opportunities for our students to get to know Spanish culture in a natural and intimate way. By spending time together, having fun, and connecting with others, I’ve seen how, little by little, they stop feeling like visitors and start feeling like part of this society.
This experience has been transformative for me as well. It has taught me the value of small actions, the importance of making someone feel welcome, and the joy of seeing new friendships and shared memories take root. Today, I realize that true integration isn’t just about living in a country, but about feeling welcomed, valued, and part of a community. Being able to contribute to that has undoubtedly been one of the most enriching experiences of my life.”
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Thank you, @lafuentecoronel, for your generosity and for walking hand in hand with so many people.
Stories like Virginia’s remind us that integration is built, above all, with human connections. Sometimes all it takes is a conversation, a stroll, a shared meal, or someone willing to listen for a person to start feeling at home.
If you’d like to support someone who is starting a new life in Málaga, we invite you to join our volunteer team.
And if you don’t have the time, you can become a member of Asha-Kiran and help us continue creating welcoming spaces for learning and giving hope to many more people.
When we reach out to someone, both of our lives change.
With the support of Málaga City Council.