Author: Maria Isabel Mejía Agudelo
Juan Carlos was born on October 31, 2000. He is currently 24 years old. His life is split between Tunja, where he studies veterinary medicine and animal science, and Sibaté, where his parents and grandparents live. Even though Juan moves between urban and rural environments, he feels deeply connected to the countryside.
His grandparents lived in the highland páramo areas of Romeral and Alto del Cabra, which allowed Juan to discover, from a young age, a sense of peace and a connection with nature in rural life.
For him, territory is more than just a geographic space; it is the sum of experiences, smells, landscapes, and memories that link him to his history and roots. One of his most meaningful memories is the scent of his grandparents’ house, with its aroma of leather and countryside, which evokes his deep bond with the páramo. There’s also the sky, which is the first thing he looks at every time he steps outside. In fact, during the day, he likes to pause and admire the warm, cloudy sunsets that he loves so much.
For Juan, closeness and support within his community hold great value—this proximity that allows people to know and help one another. Juan enjoys lending a hand, but beyond that, what truly drives him is the fight against injustice. He states: “I can’t remain indifferent in the face of abuse of power, whether it’s against a person, an animal, or a plant.”
Since he was a child, he has been known for speaking out against situations he felt were unfair—first at home, and later in the various places he has passed through in life, always defending beings who cannot defend themselves.
For Juan, his territory has shaped the way he sees and connects with the world. It has helped define his identity, his relationships, and the way he inhabits the world.
