How did you get involved with Human Connections?
I found Human Connections last spring on Idealist.org, an online platform that posts about career and volunteer opportunities with non-profit organizations around the world. At the time, I was working with a non-profit in Memphis, TN, but was looking for an opportunity with a social services organization in Mexico. I was moved by Human Connections’ mission and vision, and once I interviewed with the team I knew it would be a great fit.
Hiking the Boca de Tomatlán trail to Los Animas Beach with students from Ohio Wesleyan University.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?
Working with my co-workers on our two different tours is extremely fulfilling because I help facilitate interactions between international visitors and local partners. It is so heartwarming to see people from completely different backgrounds, and sometimes who don’t even speak the same language, creating connections about all types of things. It is moving to see how inspired our visitors and partners become when they share their thoughts, passions, plans, and experiences with each other.
How can Global Fellows prepare for a trip to Bucerías?
If you are on your way to work as a Global Fellow with Human Connections, prepare by getting ready to jump quickly into the role, which is multi-faceted and constantly changing. Even before you get to Bucerías, the staff will include you on emails and will be eager to get to know and work with you. Be open-minded and ready to learn new skills. You will be an integral part of the team!
Painting the blackboard wall in our new office in Bucerías.
Who would be the most successful type of Human Connections Global Fellow?
An individual who is open to learning new skills, working with new softwares, and who is not afraid to communicate in Spanish will excel in this role. Also, someone who is proactive, thinks critically, and works well individually as well as in group settings will thrive.
How do you help visitors become involved in the area?
I help visitors and student groups become involved in the Bucerías community by helping with our day tours, educational student trips, and internships. I work with our Tour Program Director by engaging with international visitors during the tours and communicating with our partners to receive their feedback. I work with our Student Programs Director to ensure all our student programs run smoothly by helping with the logistics of the programs before the trips and working with the groups while they are in Bucerías.
The whole Human Connections team in front of our newly printed windows!
What is a typical day like for a Human Connections Global Fellow?
As a Global Fellow I wear many hats, so every day looks different. My first few months here, I was in charge of launching our annual Holiday Fundraiser. This year our goal was to raise USD $10,000 to help our team transition to a more visible, sustainable, and accessible office space close to downtown Bucerías. I was responsible for choosing the platform for the fundraiser, helping to create graphics and work on the language, as well as reaching out to supporters and monitoring donations. It was very exciting when we exceeded our goal (by about USD $3,000!) with a private grant from a Canadian foundation.
This December I helped our winter interns get quotes from solar panel organizations in town as part of the green initiative for this specific grant proposal. More recently, I have been helping with creating our new website, sending out quarterly newsletters, and providing support on day tours, students programs, and in the local markets. Now I am researching different opportunities for grant applications for the organization.
How have you seen visitors benefit from their time in Bucerías?
I have seen tour participants make deep connections with our partners and leave our office understanding a little more about the local community, as well as about some of the different cultures in Mexico. Students who have participated in our Global Engagement Trips and internships learn valuable professional skills that come from working hands-on with a small social enterprise. These students have also sharpened interpersonal skills, advanced their intercultural competency, and made connections with people from completely different backgrounds—with students in the program from other schools, with their host families, with people in town, and with our partners. Many students also gain confidence in their Spanish language skills and in exploring new and different places.
Why should future Global Fellows be excited to travel with Human Connections?
Future Global Fellows should be excited to travel and work with Human Connections because this organization truly focuses on the people—the employees, partners, visitors, volunteers, and students. The Human Connections team really cares about every person involved in every aspect of the organization. The staff works hard to make sure you get the most out of your experience in Bucerías, and supports you every step of the way.
