My name is Linda, and I live in the El Consuelo neighborhood in central Bogotá, an area where violence, gangs, and drug use are part of daily life. My story, like that of many young people in my community, hasn’t been easy.

I come from a large family with many economic hardships, and for years we faced difficult situations that forced us to move constantly in search of cheaper places to live. At 14, I was influenced by negative friendships: I stopped studying, distanced myself from my family, and wasted years in parties and environments that led me nowhere good.

Then came an even tougher phase. I had a relationship that hurt me deeply and ended up pregnant. Raising my daughter alone has been one of the greatest challenges of my life. But it has also been my greatest transformation. Thanks to her, I began to rebuild myself.

In the midst of that process, I met the Performance collective, and through it, the YMCA. It was a turning point. They opened their doors to me and gave me tools to express myself, to heal, to lead. Today, I’m a dance leader in the collective: I create choreographies, perform in the community, and share messages of hope through art.

Thanks to the YMCA’s support, I’ve also grown in other areas. I started a small business making desserts, which helps with household expenses and my daughter’s needs. In December, I graduated from high school, something I’d postponed for years.

Thanks to the 17th Solidarity Banquet, supported by Delta Air Lines, funds were raised that made it possible for more young people like me to access these safe spaces. Spaces where we not only learn but also feel seen, heard, and valued.

Today, my motivation is my daughter and my collective. I thank the YMCA for coming into my life, for showing me that it’s possible to move forward, and for giving me reasons to keep going.