CARACAS.- Amid prolonged economic and political instability, Millions of Venezuelans have been forced to leave their home country in search of new opportunities. Despite the challenges they have faced, many remain hopeful of returning to a renewed and prosperous Venezuela.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) estimates that More than 7.7 million Venezuelans have emigrated since 2014settling in various countries in Latin America and beyond. As the presidential elections in Venezuela approach, the Venezuelan diaspora is closely following the events, hoping for a change that will one day allow their return.
Hope from the US and Colombia
Yuly Macedoa 47-year-old lawyer, moved to Miami in 2016. Despite the difficulties, she continues to hope for a change in Venezuela. Although she does not plan to return anytime soon, she keeps alive the hope of a renewed Venezuela. “We will never lose hope for a better future for our country,” she says firmly.
For its part, Mayra Jose Marchana 52-year-old economist, is helping mobilize opposition voters from Florida. Despite threats in Venezuela, he is working for a different nation and dreams of a better future for his home country. “I dream of a different Venezuela. I work for a better nation,” he says.
Meanwhile, Mary Help of Christians Añez60, found a refuge and an opportunity to reinvent herself in Colombia. Since 2020, she and her husband have been running a Venezuelan food truck in Bogotá, a business that has allowed them to sustain themselves and keep their culture alive. “My dream is to see a Venezuela where we can have a dignified life, with basic services guaranteed,” says Añez, who dreams of returning to her homeland.
In addition, Ana Isabel Gomez51, emigrated in 2014 for the safety of his family. In Bogotá, he founded a wellness center and an organization that sends medicines to Venezuela. His optimism is contagious: “I know that one day I will return to a better Venezuela. We do not lose faith in a bright future for our country,” he says.
Overcoming in Chile
Emilia Lizbeth AnguloAngulo, a 51-year-old lawyer, left Mérida in 2018 after facing retaliation for refusing to support pro-government protests. Now settled in Chile as an administrative assistant, she remains hopeful of returning to Venezuela. “I am waiting for the right moment to come home,” she says determinedly.
On the other hand, Liseth Diaza 46-year-old systems engineer, and her family emigrated in 2017 after facing insecurity in Venezuela. Now, in Santiago, Chile, they work in the fiber optics industry. Although they don’t plan to return anytime soon, Díaz says, “Our hope for change in Venezuela is still alive. We want to return when it is safe and stable.”
Opportunities in Spain
Jose Alberto MoranThe 29-year-old left Caracas in 2016 and settled in Madrid, where he works selling tiles. Although he was unable to register to vote in Sunday’s election, he remains hopeful that Venezuela will change for the better. “I will return when my country can offer security and stability,” he says with conviction.
Finally, Jacobo Alonso Sequeiroswho left Venezuela in 2012, works as a computer engineer in Spain. Although he does not plan to return permanently, he is hopeful that the elections will mark the beginning of positive change. “I hope that circumstances will improve so that I can consider returning,” he says.
As Venezuelans prepare for elections, the stories of these migrants reflect admirable resilience and unwavering hope. Despite the challenges, many dream of returning to a renewed and prosperous Venezuela. These elections could be the first step toward that bright future they all yearn for.
Source: With information from AP
