💖 FROM IZTAPALAPA TO THE HEART: This is how we turned support between friends into a caring diploma.
- I. The beginning: When need becomes a goal
Living and observing day-to-day life in western Mexico City, particularly in Iztapalapa, opened my eyes to a harsh and silent reality: mental health was a luxury that many could not afford. I saw people, especially women, facing enormous emotional burdens, but the idea of going to therapy was almost inconceivable. It wasn’t just a lack of financial resources, but also a lack of time to commit to weekly sessions.
However, I saw something inspiring: the healing power of connection. I saw how a simple conversation between friends could become an emotional balm that soothed the soul. I realised that the solution was not to continue replicating the traditional model, but rather to develop the potential of moral support. From this conviction, the proposal was born: Healing the Heart.
- II. The process: post-COVID innovation and hybrid training
The urgency of addressing this need became even more apparent in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, where isolation and stress worsened the emotional crisis. The solution had to be flexible and accessible.
This is how I managed to establish a crucial collaboration with a university to develop a solid training programme. The nine-month ‘Healing the Heart’ diploma was created, designed with a
hybrid methodology to suit the lives of women in the community:
• Distance learning courses to ensure accessibility and save travel time.
• In-person practical workshop: the training ends with an intensive in-person workshop, an essential space for practising deep listening and emotional support tools in a safe and real environment.
The most significant part is the end of the course: each participant develops an individual life project. This project consists of a concrete plan for sharing what has been learned, whether by applying it to improve one’s personal life or by launching initiatives to have a positive impact on one’s community.
- III. Impact: The First Generation of Healers
‘More than just a graduation ceremony: how this diploma became a network of healing and friendship’
Today, the greatest testament to this project is the first generation of women who graduated. They are tangible proof that knowledge and community are drivers of change.
• Transformation and action: these women not only graduated, but also developed an action plan. They improved their own lives by applying their knowledge in their work or by leading new community initiatives.
• The friendship network: I remain in contact with them, and the most beautiful thing is to see how this first group of ‘heart healers’ remains strongly connected to each other. They have found a space of friendship, mutual support and belonging so precious that the bond remains.
‘Healing the heart’ has taught me that the greatest act of love is to create the conditions for others to help themselves, and that proper training can transform empathy into a force for community healing.