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Nicol arrived in New York 20 days ago, seeking better financial opportunities to support her family and build a future. Her biggest challenge was crossing Mexico, where she faced extortion and the constant fear of migration officials and cartels. Unlike other migrants, she was able to travel by plane, but along the way, she heard stories of those who risked their lives crossing the Darién Gap. Now, as she adapts to her new reality, she advises those making this journey to be mentally prepared and never give up.

Jhon and Santiago decided to leave their home behind in pursuit of a better future. From Quindío and Duitama, they embarked on a journey full of obstacles, crossing dangerous paths, facing a lack of resources, and overcoming the hardships of travel. Along the way, they encountered both challenges and acts of solidarity that gave them the strength to keep going. Their story reflects the struggle of thousands of migrants who seek new opportunities without giving up. A testimony of courage, resilience, and the determination to reach a better destiny.

Luis embarked on a journey from Ecuador to the United States, facing challenges, uncertainty, and dangers. He crossed borders, traveled through jungles, and experienced firsthand the harsh reality of migration: corruption, extortion, and fear. However, he also found solidarity and hope along the way. Despite the obstacles, he never stopped trying, because giving up is not an option. His story is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and determination in the pursuit of a better future.

Manuel describes his first migration to the US, then to Switzerland, and years later his return to the US where he has six children across two marriages and a successful career in construction. Both marriages ended badly, but he manages to maintain custody of his kids.

Manuel’s estranged wife keeps a letter from him which causes him to miss an immigration court hearing. Meanwhile, he is awarded a 5 year work permit and he awaits his permanent residency. However, only days into the Trump presidency he is detained for missing his hearing. When he refuses to sign authorizing his voluntary removal, ICE agents physically force his fingerprint and deport him anyway. He is now in Nogales where he is being treated well and has hopes to start up a business.

José Mares, a single father, was deported to Mexico in 2017, leaving behind his 17-year-old daughter. Despite numerous challenges, including failed attempts to return to the U.S., he found support through the organization Al Otro Lado, where he now works as a Business Operations Coordinator. With their help, he reunited with his daughter, established a Welcome Center for deportees in Tijuana, and continues to assist others in similar situations, finding purpose and hope in rebuilding his life.

Hugo López narrates in his story how he arrived in the U.S. from Mexico as a baby, his teenage years in Washington State, and the various circumstances that led him to become involved in gangs, ultimately landing him in prison. As an undocumented immigrant in the U.S., he was forced to sign voluntary deportation. Once in Mexico, he embarks on a long journey to integrate into society, reconnect with family, recover from addiction, and secure stable employment.

In the first part of his narrative, Colombian migrant Hernán Dario recounts his “first attempt” to cross from Mexico to the U.S. His story highlights the various legal obstacles he faces as an undocumented Colombian migrant living in Mexico, as well as his time in multiple detention centers in both Mexico and the U.S., after which he is deported to Bogotá.

Following his deportation, Hernán leaves again for the US, this time suffering a number of setbacks along the way. He records some dramatic moments of his voyage on his phone, for example in the Darien Gap, and boarding la Bestia. This installment of his story ends in Tijuana, in uncertainty.