What inspired you to go abroad?
I felt inspired to travel to Cordoba because Argentina's history of human rights activism is powerful and deeply moving. I wanted to learn directly from people working on the front lines of social justice, contribute in a practical way, and return home with a deeper understanding of justice and resilience.
Why did you choose Mondify?
I chose this Human Rights program in Argentina based on positive reviews from previous volunteers and my curiosity to learn more and better understand the ongoing sacrifices made by passionate human rights activists and program coordinators.
I was keen to explore multiple aspects of human rights, encompassing gender violence, gender inequality, and homelessness, to name a few.
What was your favorite part about Cordoba?
Staying with a host family in Cordoba allowed me to truly immerse myself in the Argentine lifestyle. I felt wonderfully welcomed, enjoyed delicious local cuisine, and relished the opportunity to practice my Spanish in a very supportive environment.
Cordoba is a beautiful city, with lots of cultural and tourist activities to do in your free time.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
My experience was incredible on so many levels.
I loved meeting local people, immersing myself in the culture, and most importantly, feeling I had made a small difference in helping victims of human rights abuses and supporting the development of awareness campaigns for ongoing initiatives.
Returning home, I felt my perspective had broadened, and my knowledge and understanding of human rights had increased substantially.
With Agustina, local Human Rights Coordinator and a fellow couple of volunteers from USA
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
Guillermo Cogorno, Mondify's Country Director, couldn't have been more welcoming and supportive.
He ensured that I maximized every learning opportunity and encouraged me to practice my Spanish daily. With a rich understanding of Argentina's history, I was fascinated by the breadth and depth of his perspective and knowledge.
Agustina, the program coordinator for the Human Rights program, was both a great supporter and encourager.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
With insight, I wished I had worked harder on my Spanish lessons pre-departure and researched Argentina's history more deeply.
I also wished I had been able to extend my placement from two-weeks to four. By the time I got into my stride and felt settled, it was time to wrap up.
I would advise all volunteers to stay for at least 3 weeks!
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Breakfast with my host family involved easy conversation about the day ahead.
At 9 am, I head to my placement and continue where I left off. Fortunately, it was an easy bus ride.
My favorite was interviewing people who had suffered human rights abuses, working together to design awareness campaigns, and doing further research.
In the afternoons, I enjoy relaxing over coffee and with other volunteers. Frequently, we would plan activities for the evening.
It was fun to make friends from France, the USA, and the UK.
Alfajores
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
Sitting in public squares sketching majestic buildings and pretty patios: Cordoban patios are famous for their flower-filled courtyards. I loved walking through these beautiful courtyards.
Coffee with Alfajores: I have never enjoyed such beautiful coffee. Extra Alfajores were packed for my return!
Tapas with fellow volunteers: always fun to share stories with new friends and discuss justice, democracy, and social change while living among locals rather than tourists.
Photography and journalling: a perfect hobby to help me remember my memories and solidify my impressions.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed with a host family who welcomed me with open arms. They had space for 6 volunteers; however, I was their only visitor, so I was spoiled rotten!
My room had a double bed, was spacious and clean, with a nice view of the garden. The bathroom, with a separate shower, was right beside my bedroom.
My host Dad was a fabulous cook, so we enjoyed delicious suppers, and I loved sitting around the table after we had eaten and chatting about life in Argentina.
how to plan a trip
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
It would be helpful to arrive with a broad understanding of human rights, as well as some knowledge of the human rights struggles from 1976 to 1983.
If you like teaching, I suggest chatting with the program coordinator ahead of time and preparing some teaching materials in advance.
Remember to pack markers, tapes, and research notes so you will hit the ground running!
Would you recommend your program/provider to others? Why?
Most definitely!
There is real-world impact, not just theory. As a volunteer, you connect with participants who have lived human-rights issues in Argentina, which offers hands-on experience with community organizations, so learning feels meaningful and grounded.
Deep cultural immersion in a vibrant student city occurs, and personal growth is guaranteed to last much longer than the placement.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
Huge personal growth and independence: I had to adapt to a new language, culture, and pace of life. As a result, I grew in confidence and resiliency and became a more capable problem solver.
A cultural perspective that sticks for life: I especially loved the family-centred social life.
Language, friendships, and global curiosity: being immersed in Spanish and meeting local people made my learning feel real and exciting.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I have continued to stay in contact with friends and Mondify staff and plan to return to Cordoba at some time in the future.
My interest in Argentina has increased. I feel I have a special connection and have continued to follow social, political, and economic developments in the country. I love sharing my photographs and telling others about my experience.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is authentic and reciprocal.
There should be a balance of outcomes for both the giver and receiver. Meaningful travel grows empathy and global awareness. One needs to live inside another culture (not just observing it) to see different values and perspectives.
Language learning becomes real and motivating. It is a vital life skill.
