“A stronger, more thoughtful, and more open-minded version of myself” (English version)
LAYA participant Ameth Rodriguez, from Panama, shares Kalamazoo experience from Fall 2024 - Guest blog
Global Ties Kalamazoo hosts, staff, and volunteers welcome the 2024 LAYA participants.
Hello! I'm Ameth Jhosue Rodriguez Perez. I'm from Panama, I'm 17 years old, and I arrived in Kalamazoo with a mix of emotions. I can't deny that my initial expectations of this city were a bit low, but not because I had a bad attitude, but because I hadn't done much research before arriving. However, my mind was open and my attitude was positive. Of course, I was also a bit nervous: I was going to meet my host family, and I would also be sharing this trip with classmates with whom I had barely spoken.
The first day in Kalamazoo was calm, but full of emotions. I met my host family, the Youkers, who made me feel at home from the first moment. I also met Joshua, my roommate. Despite it being our first time together, the connection was immediate, as if we had known each other forever.
In the afternoon, we attended a dinner hosted by Nayda and Patricia, two wonderful women who welcomed us with a meal that blended Caribbean and Latin American flavors. It was a gesture that not only filled me with nostalgia, but also made me feel how important community and hospitality are in this experience.
Scenes from the first days in Kalamazoo including food and friends at the welcome party and meeting his host family at the airport.
Monday officially marked the start of our agenda. At the Global Ties Kalamazoo offices, we met Emma Baratta, the program manager, and Beth Clark, who with her charisma and sense of humor made us all laugh from the start. Our first activity was at Can-Do Kalamazoo, a space dedicated to promoting small entrepreneurs through innovative ideas and accessible resources. They explained to us how they support those who seek to start from scratch, something that really inspired me.
Afterwards, we visited El Concilio Hispanoamericano, an organization that works for the Latino community in Kalamazoo. The most impressive thing was to discover that they have their own Spanish-language newspaper, dedicated to informing and empowering Latinos in the region. It was amazing to see how a community can come together to preserve its identity while also integrating into a diverse society.
In the afternoon, we strolled through downtown Kalamazoo, famous for being one of the world's first pedestrian shopping malls. I was fascinated by the architecture, shops, and history of the place. We had lunch at Benny DiCarta's, where we tried delicious pizza, and ended the day at the Youker's, carving pumpkins for the first time. Although it was something completely new for me, I enjoyed it very much, especially sharing laughs with my host family and colleagues.
A mural in the new El Concilio building, a skyline in Kalamazoo, and the first time carving pumpkins.
Tuesday started with our first check-in, a dynamic in which we shared how we were feeling and how we were adjusting to our host families. I thought it was a great way to connect as a group and make sure we were all comfortable.
Next, we visited a trail along the Kalamazoo River, where we learned about its history. This river, once severely polluted, has become a symbol of resilience thanks to community efforts to clean and restore it. It was exciting to see how nature can recover with human engagement.
Our next stop was at Open Roads Bike, where we took apart bikes. It was an unexpected, hands-on activity, but one I thoroughly enjoyed. There I met Phillip, the shop manager and photographer, whose positive energy was contagious. His willingness to help me and my partner Suglin from Costa Rica was admirable and inspired us to work with enthusiasm.
In the afternoon, we visited Public Media Network, where we received equipment and training to create blogs. My group Nexar and Luis showed incredible teamwork. Later, my host father took me to his son’s rock academy, where I was able to enjoy live music and immerse myself in the local music culture, something that fascinated me as a rock lover.
LAYA participants walking along the Kalamazoo River Trail behind Open Roads Bike Program.
Ameth’s host brother playing the drums, working on bikes at Open Roads and Mil from Public Media Network leading a workshop on vlogging.
Wednesday was a day full of learning. We visited the Office for Sustainability of Western Michigan University, where they explained to us how they implement sustainable practices to reduce their environmental impact. As a young environmentalist, this talk resonated deeply with me. It helped me better understand how small actions can make a big difference in the community and how we can inspire others to do the same.
At noon, we had lunch at the university and met Sofia Hartman, an intern who works at Global Ties Kalamazoo. During the tour, we passed by an interesting statue. Tradition says that if you manage to replicate the position of the statue with your friends, the university will give you a full scholarship. Although I don't know if it's true, it was fun to try and laugh together.
In the afternoon, we visited the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, where we learned about local history. One of the objects that caught my eye was a mummy, which looked like something straight out of a movie. The visit ended with a glass art activity, where my patience was put to the test. Although it was a challenge, in the end I managed to create something that left me satisfied.
A busy day for LAYA in Kalamazoo: visit to WMU and the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, a selfie on the bus between activities and LAYA participants in a glass art workshop at Glass Art Kalamazoo.
Thursday was packed with excitement and unforgettable experiences. The day began with a visit to the Air Zoo, one of Kalamazoo’s most remarkable attractions. Walking among legendary planes like the SR-71B Blackbird was awe-inspiring, and the flight simulator added a layer of fun that I shared with Nexar and Luis as we recorded parts of our vlog. It quickly became one of my favorite stops of the trip.
In the afternoon, we went to a bowling alley [Airway Fun Center], marking my very first time playing the game. The experience was thrilling—learning to roll the ball, laughing at both hits and misses, and cheering each other on created a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. For me, it wasn’t just about the game; it was about bonding with the group in a lighthearted and fun setting.
Afterward, we returned to Elena’s house to get ready for Halloween night. Going trick-or-treating through the neighborhood was magical. The festive decorations, glowing jack-o'-lanterns, and the community's warm spirit made the evening special. It was like stepping into a movie, and I loved every moment of it.
Activities on Halloween: a visit to the AirZoo, bowling at Airway Fun Center, and trick or treating with host families.
Friday started with a visit to Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC), where we learned about the educational programs and their focus on innovation. One of the workshops that caught my attention was the 3D printing workshop, designed to boost technological development in the region. Seeing how technology can be a tool for progress was inspiring.
Later, we had a workshop with Natalia, a Brazilian woman who works at the college. She shared a poem called There's a Hole in My Sidewalk by Portia Nelson. This poem invited us to reflect on how we often face the same problems because we don't close the "holes" in our lives. It was a powerful lesson that resonated in my mind.
In the afternoon, we returned to the Public Media Network to finish editing our vlog. Although my background is more in photography than video editing, I thoroughly enjoyed the process. It was amazing to see how each member of the group brought their own vision and perspective to the experiences they had in Kalamazoo. This activity sparked a new interest in video editing, something I am excited to continue exploring.
That evening, I met my host father’s grandfather, who had arrived from Honduras. Hearing his stories as a Peace Corps volunteer and his life teaching English was inspiring. His anecdotes and passion for helping others left a mark on me and made me reflect on the impact we can have on the lives of others.
LAYA participants in front of flags of the world at Kalamazoo Valley Community College.
Ameth's group sharing their finished vlog at PMN, a hallway at KVCC, and a poetry exercise from the workshop with Natalia.
Saturday began with a road trip to Lake Michigan, a place whose beauty is hard to describe in words. Joshua and I couldn’t resist the urge to run up a nearby hill to get the best views and capture photos that would immortalize the moment. Standing before that vast horizon of crystal-clear water made me feel a deep connection with nature.
In the afternoon, we returned home to rest for a while, but the evening brought an entirely new and special experience: attending a concert by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. What made it even more meaningful was that my host mom was part of the event’s organization, allowing me to see the behind-the-scenes work and appreciate even more what it takes to plan something of this magnitude.
I had the incredible opportunity to meet prominent figures in the world of classical music, such as conductor Julian Kuerti, clarinetist Anthony McGill, and composer James Lee III. Being in the same space as these icons was inspiring, and their performances left me speechless. The music filled the auditorium with an energy that transcended notes and scores, touching the soul of everyone present.
It was an honor to witness such a grand event and, even if just for one night, to be part of a world so sophisticated and filled with passion. That evening reaffirmed for me that music is a universal language, capable of connecting people from different cultures and backgrounds in a unique and powerful way.
Ameth’s photos from the weekend with his host family: visiting Lake Michigan in South Haven, attending a Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Concert and a shell from the beach.
On Sunday, our host family took us out for lunch of sushi and fried rice, a perfect combination for a leisurely afternoon. Later, we visited South Beach and the town of South Haven, accompanied by Suglin. We had a wonderful time exploring the area, enjoying the breeze and the lake views. It was a relaxing day, perfect for recharging our batteries before the last day of activities.
South Beach on Lake Michigan in South Haven and a selfie with Ameth’s host family, the Youkers.
Monday dawned with a melancholy air. We knew it was our last day together, and that was reflected in the group's mood. Our first activity was a tour of the KVCC Food Innovation Center, where we got a close-up look at a greenhouse growing flowers and foods that are resistant to Kalamazoo's cold climate. It was interesting to learn about how they combine sustainability and technology to boost local production.
In the afternoon, we had planned a visit to Western Michigan University, which unfortunately did not work out. However, that did not stop us from enjoying the day. We walked around downtown Kalamazoo, sharing laughs and reflecting on the moments we had experienced.
The day ended with a certificate presentation ceremony at the Global Ties Kalamazoo offices. It was an emotional moment, where everyone shared words of gratitude and reflected on what this experience meant. I couldn't help but cry, as everything we had experienced together had left a deep mark on me.
That evening, my host sister gave me a handwritten letter that moved me to tears. It was a loving gesture that closed this stage of my trip in a special and unforgettable way.
A LAYA participant takes a selfie in a vintage mirror with Ameth’s camera.
Bike Nights and Friends: Ike, Luis, and Joshua
Some of the most vibrant memories I take away from this trip are the nights spent on the bike with Ike, Luis, and Joshua. Nights where the fresh air enveloped us as we rode through unfamiliar streets, sharing laughs, anecdotes, and comfortable silences that reflected the connection we had created. In those moments, the city felt like ours, as if the world had stopped to allow us to fully enjoy our youth. Those nights weren’t just fun; they also taught us to trust each other, to feel free, and to value the friendships that are forged in the most unexpected circumstances.
The importance of each person in my personal development
I never imagined how much impact the people I met for a few weeks could have on my personal development. Each one, with their personality and experiences, left a mark on me, helping me grow and see the world from different perspectives.
Cristian and Emma were like guides on this journey. Cristian not only took care of us, but also taught us to face challenges with patience and dedication. His ability to handle any situation calmly inspired me deeply. Emma, with her enthusiasm and kindness, taught us that leadership is not only about directing, but also about connecting and supporting others.
Beth gave me a unique opportunity that I will never forget. By including me as a photographer on the Ties team and trusting me to document our experiences through the blog, she showed me that my talent can open doors and tell stories that impact others. That experience motivated me to continue exploring photography as a means of expression and connection.
Paul Miller, with his passion for photography, was a constant inspiration. Sharing moments with someone who loves what he does so much reminded me that the most beautiful things in life are those we do with our hearts.
Joshua became the brother I never knew I needed. He was always there to support me, to listen to me, and to share those simple yet meaningful moments that only true friends understand.
Luis was not just a traveling companion; he became someone deeply important to me. His words of encouragement and his outlook on life made me reflect on my own dreams and goals.
Ike , on the other hand, became one of the best friends I had on this journey. His loyalty, sense of humor, and unconditional support made any moment with him memorable. Ike taught me that true friendships are not measured in time, but in the connection that is formed.
My host family
From day one, my host family treated me like one of their own. They passed on to me their passion for music and their love for the little things in life. Through them, I learned the value of hospitality and how family ties can overcome any cultural differences.
Grandpa was a source of inspiration with his crazy and exciting stories. His enthusiasm for life and ability to find adventures in every corner of the world motivated me to always look for the extraordinary in everyday life.
Helena, with her joy and sweetness, was like a little sister to me. Her enthusiasm reminded me how important it is to live with curiosity and openness.
Maria Fernanda, our mentor
Maria Fernanda, our mentor from Costa Rica, was more than a caregiver; she was a guide and an example. Her patience, empathy, and dedication showed us what it means to lead with the heart. Thanks to her, I understood the importance of caring for others and always giving my best in every situation.
Final reflection
This trip was not just a change of scenery or a tour of new places; it was an encounter with myself and with extraordinary people who have marked my life. Each experience, from the nights spent on bikes to the deep conversations, helped me grow and appreciate the richness of human connections.
I leave Kalamazoo with a heart full of gratitude, with friendships that I know will last beyond distance, and with a stronger, more thoughtful, and more open-minded version of myself. This trip was a reminder that every person we encounter has something to teach us, and that the simplest moments are often the most meaningful.
If there is one thing I can take with me, it is the certainty that the most valuable experiences are not those we accumulate, but those we share. And so, to all of you who were part of this journey: thank you for being part of my story.
Connect with Ameth: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ameth-rodr%C3%ADguez-1b21822a0
Ameth visited Kalamazoo in late October 2024 through the Latin American Youth Ambassadors Program (LAYA) implemented in Kalamazoo in partnership with Georgetown University