Overcoming fears and embracing identity: Rosángela’s journey
Rosángela Martínez, now proud of her Wayuu identity, once lived in fear of discrimination. For years, her indigenous background contributed to insecurities that silenced her voice and kept her from expressing herself publicly. These fears, that have been carried from childhood and were unaddressed by psychological support, shaped her adult life.
In Venezuela, Rosángela made a living by selling her handicrafts, but the income was insufficient. As conditions worsened, she made the difficult decision to migrate to Colombia in 2022, settling in Matitas, a rural community in Riohacha. Women in Matitas face numerous challenges: access to education is limited and issues such as gender-based violence, xenophobia and emotional well-being are rarely addressed.
In her early months in Matitas, Rosángela endured discrimination as a Wayuu woman and an irregular migrant. “Many times they told me to my face that I had come to take their jobs and that I should return to my country,” she recalls. This hostility deepened her insecurities, and challenges in a personal relationship added to the strain on her mental health.
Finding safe spaces
In February 2024, Rosángela joined social cohesion sessions facilitated by Malteser International Americas with support from USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA). Part of the "Improving Livelihoods and Resilience of Multiethnic Communities in La Guajira" project, these sessions help participants build emotional skills, foster empathy, and address issues like anxiety, fear, and gender-based violence.
Initially, Rosángela was sceptical and feared that sharing her insecurities might make her feel exposed. However, the supportive atmosphere changed her perspective. “At first, I wasn’t sure these sessions would be truly helpful for me, but from the very first time, I found a space where I could express what I felt and receive support. I haven’t stopped attending since then because here I find a safe place to share and learn about topics that have helped me manage my anxiety and feel stronger every day,” she says.
Broader impact
Through these sessions, Rosángela has embraced her Wayuu identity and grown emotionally. “Now I understand that I shouldn’t feel less than others because I am Wayuu,” she shares. She values the opportunity to discuss topics often avoided at home, learning practical skills that strengthen her confidence. Over time, Rosángela has formed friendships and is now recognized as an empowered woman who voices her ideas and confronts challenges with determination. Equipped with emotional tools from the sessions, she faces discrimination and rejection with newfound resilience.
From February to September 2024, the project has engaged 443 participants from 17 rural communities in Riohacha and Dibulla. This initiative, supported by USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) and Malteser International Americas, aims to benefit 20,000 people across Riohacha and Dibulla, fostering resilience and strengthening communities like Matitas.
This text is based on an article by Malteser International Americas from December, 2024.
