In this episode, we hear the powerful story of Mariana, a young Ukrainian woman whose serene life was upturned during a vacation in Barcelona. Previously accustomed to the ongoing conflicts with a neighboring country, she never anticipated that suddenly, she would be unable to return to her homeland, her career, or her loved ones. Overnight, she became a refugee and embarked on a transformative journey to support her fellow compatriots in finding a new place to call home.

We delve into the complex lives of war refugees, exploring the unseen privileges of nationality and race, and uncovering the profound impact and mutual benefits of welcoming those displaced from their native lands.

A big thank you to Mariana, and all of the refugees who are working in Asociación Ucraniana Dejerelo to transform your reality and ours.

1. (2:21 – 7:35) Roots of Resilience and the Weight of War – Mariana reflects on her Ukrainian heritage, the deep-seated values of freedom and family, and how the ongoing war has scarred her homeland and her heart.

2. (7:36 – 17:45) A Refugee’s Path: From Survival to Service – Uprooted by the sudden invasion, Mariana channels her pain into purpose, leading efforts to support fellow refugees through art, community, and compassion in Barcelona.

3. (17:46 – 27:55) Weaving a Tapestry of Hope in a Foreign Land – Through determination and unity, Mariana helps create the first Ukrainian library in Spain and provides essential services, turning refugees into contributors to the local society.

4. (27:56 – 30:00) A Call for Global Awakening – Mariana urges the world to see the interconnectedness of all nations, emphasizing that the war in Ukraine is a fight for the future of humanity and a reminder of our shared responsibility.