During the month of May, the Training and Operations team of the Pau Costa Foundation carried out an intensive program of activities in Colombia. As part of the collaboration with UNGRD and UNDP Colombia, Jorge G. Rivera and Orli Martínez travelled to Puerto Carreño to deliver the second edition of the Technical Fire Course, together with the Puerto Carreño Volunteer Fire Department, the Kanalitojo Indigenous Reserve, and the Municipal Council for Disaster Risk Management (CMGRD).
Subsequently, we participated as co-hosts of the National Meeting of Forest Brigades of Colombia’s SNGRD and Community Units for Forest Fire Prevention and Monitoring (Bogotá, May 19–20), where we delivered the workshop “Initial Wildfire Assessment: Relevant Information” and conducted a wildfire simulation using the sand table model, to strengthen interoperability among all stakeholders (institutions and communities).
We concluded our stay with the Helitack Brigade Course in Tolemaida, attended by personnel from various SNGRD institutions. The course included the participation of Salvador Lázaro (Helitack Brigade Technician, Castile and León, Spain), who contributed to the training through the Foundation’s Pool of Trainers.
Reflecting on this month’s experience in Colombia, Salvador Lázaro shares his perspective:
“Working in Colombia as a trainer within the framework of the Helitack Brigade Training Project has been an immensely valuable experience, both professionally and personally.
From a professional perspective, this mission has allowed me to develop and strengthen my skills in adaptability, leadership, and knowledge transfer within a multicultural and highly demanding environment, significantly enriching my operational and instructional experience.
On a personal level, this experience has allowed me to build meaningful human connections and to grow in key areas such as resilience, empathy, and the ability to adapt while being far from my usual surroundings. The commitment, professionalism, and hospitality shown by everyone I had the opportunity to work with made this period especially rewarding and unforgettable.
I would also like to express my gratitude to the Pau Costa Foundation for the trust placed in me and for promoting international cooperation and training initiatives as relevant as this project, which makes a significant contribution to strengthening capacities and fostering knowledge exchange among professionals.
Overall, this mission has represented a unique opportunity for growth, learning, and personal development, leaving a very positive mark on both my professional career and my personal journey”.
