Yeisson Vargas, a Colombian poet who works in construction, and Valeria Guzmán, an award-winning Salvadoran journalist working in Barcelona, have won an award for their migration stories from the Centroamérica Cuenta Festival and UNAM in Madrid. Their narratives reflect the challenges and experiences faced by many Latin American migrants in Spain, highlighting the cultural dissonance they experience as they adapt to a new environment. Vargas, with a degree in Social Communication and Journalism, and Guzmán, who has a rich journalism background, exemplify the diverse pathways through which migrants navigate their daily lives in a country that often feels foreign despite their efforts to integrate.

They spoke openly about their motivations for moving to Spain, discussing the pursuit of better opportunities and the harsh realities many migrants face. Vargas, who works as a laborer in Alicante, touches on his aspirations and what pushed him to leave Colombia, while Guzmán, who has been surviving through various jobs in Barcelona, reflects on the nuances of her experiences adjusting to life in another country. Both offer insights into the emotional and physical toll of migration, alongside the determination and resilience required to forge a new life away from their homelands.

In the aftermath of receiving their award, both Vargas and Guzmán emphasize the importance of sharing migrant stories, as these narratives provide a voice to those often marginalized in society. Their recognition is not just a personal achievement but a broader acknowledgment of the contributions of Latin American migrants in Spain, illustrating how their experiences enrich the cultural tapestry of their new communities while also advocating for greater awareness and support for migrants’ rights.