Voices of Change: Community-driven Mental Health Interventions for Displaced and Migrant Populations in Colombia

Abstract

The project, Voices of Change, addresses the urgent mental health needs of internally displaced and Venezuelan migrant youth in Bogotá, Colombia. Through a collaboration with a non-government organization in Colombia, this initiative builds on prior research and community partnerships to co-develop a culturally relevant and evidence-informed mental health intervention. Using a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) approach, the project centers the voices of internally displaced persons and Venezuelan migrants in every phase—from identifying mental health priorities to designing sustainable solutions. Activities include interviews, community workshops, and the formation of advisory boards composed of local youth and stakeholders. The main goal is to create a sustainable, community-driven intervention that reflects the lived experiences, cultural contexts, and resilience of those it serves. This work advances mental health equity in the Global South as well as social justice, global engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration, aligning with Boston College’s mission to promote the common good through research and community partnership.