Katarina
Meet Katarina, a a first-year student from France and Bolivia.
Having grown up across continents, from Brussels to Haiti, Brazil to the United States, I arrived at UWC Atlantic already used to international environments. But I quickly realised that UWC was different.
“In my old schools, we were all international but we all came from the same education system. Here, there’s no judgement, people just come up and talk to you.” That openness has helped me grow in confidence. I’ve learned to not be afraid to go up to people, introduce myself, and just start a conversation. That’s something that really stayed with me.
Some of my most meaningful experiences have come from everyday moments, like late-night discussions with my housemates. We’ll have these huge conversations about politics, capitalism, and different ideologies. Everyone brings personal stories from their own countries. It’s just so rich!.
Interested in pursuing politics in the future, I value how these conversations go beyond theory. You don’t just learn ideas, you understand how they affect real people. here at UWC Atlantic.
My passion for change is also reflected in my work on campus. As captain of the girls’ football team, I’ve been pushing to create more opportunities for girls in sport. “When I arrived, I saw how big the boys’ matches were for the community. I wanted that for girls too.”
From campaigning to join a league to helping fundraise for team kits, I’ve learned persistence along the way. UWC Atlantic teaches you to be proactive!
Beyond campus, I am the UWC Atlantic representative of the International Student Council, connecting with students across UWC schools worldwide. I also helped launch a student-led newspaper to share stories and initiatives across campuses as a way to connect colleges and schools.
“It’s a way to really see what’s happening across the UWC movement and feel connected to something bigger.”
Alongside my work at UWC Atlantic, I’ve also helped establish the Belgian branch of Cancer Kids First, the world’s largest youth-led non-profit dedicated to paediatric cancer, building partnerships with hospitals and coordinating volunteers.
Reflecting on my journey so far, one thing stands out - it’s given me faith in humanity. Looking ahead, I don’t have all the answers, but I know what matters and I know I want to help people somehow.
