Immersing myself in Ecuadorian culture has given me a new perspective on priorities, balance, and communication as I experience different interpretations of time, courtesies, and welcome.
By Caroline Williams (PCV Ecuador 2023—present)
Since taking an extended volunteer trip in a completely new culture far from home six years ago, I have been curious about a long-term, service-based cultural exchange program. The Peace Corps was the perfect opportunity to merge my love for service with a passion for cultural immersion and community building—all while representing my country. Little did I know how much my time serving as a Health and Wellbeing Volunteer in Cuenca, Ecuador would positively impact, teach, and influence me far beyond the impact I could create.
Beginning in May of 2023, I first stepped foot onto the soil of the hidden gem that is Ecuador. Named after the equator which runs right through the country, Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world fitting coastal, Amazonian, and mountainous regions into a land area roughly the size of Colorado. Recognized for its unique beauty tied to such historical importance, Ecuador houses the world’s first and second UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Galápagos Islands and capital city of Quito. Rich in history and culture, this country captured my heart with its unique cuisine of cuy and hornado (guinea pig and roasted pig skin), traditional art and festivities, and warm communal culture of invitation.
During my time in Ecuador, I have taught health workshops in rural schools, played games with sick children in the regional public hospital, and danced passionately with my local folklórico dance group. Immersing myself in Ecuadorian culture has given me a new perspective on priorities, balance, and communication as I experience different interpretations of time, courtesies, and welcome. Wrapping up dance rehearsal, the spontaneous invitation to converse over fries and drinks creates a space for community. Passing through another regular weekday, I receive a notification that a friend is in town for a spontaneous day visit and rush to rearrange my schedule for an impromptu cafecito (afternoon coffee). Living in a slower paced Latino culture has taught me the value of relationships and the beauty of spontaneity, creating an invitation to throw off all priorities in the welcoming of visiting family and friends. As I wrap up service to return to my home of residence in Southern New Mexico in the coming months, I look forward to implementing a more thoughtful approach to my priorities that allows unexpected opportunities to create lasting memories.
If you would like to follow my journey as I wrap up service in Ecuador as well as see how you can support some of the ongoing causes I am passionate about, follow my blog at https://adventureswcarol.
Saludos,
Carito