Gloria Ospina is a prominent community leader in Moravia (Comuna 4), whose legacy of resilience and leadership has transformed her neighborhood. From her childhood in a marginalized area to becoming one of the most influential figures in the community, she has dedicated her life to improving the living conditions in Moravia. Through her tireless work, she has been instrumental in the revitalization of the area and the creation of the Cultural Development Center, a space that promotes culture, art, and social development.
You can help Glorias proyects in Moravia in this Community Leader in Moravia Donation Link (see more below)
Background and Personal Story:
- Birth: Gloria was born in Buenaventura, Colombia, in 1962. However, she moved to Medellín with her parents when she was just six months old.
- Growing up in Moravia: Gloria grew up in the marginal neighborhood of Moravia, which, in the 1960s, was infamous for being the city’s unofficial garbage dump. The area, once filled with toxic waste and discarded food, became home to many displaced families seeking refuge from violence across Colombia. Moravia, though considered a “dump” by many, was always a special place for Gloria.
Family and Influences:
- Mother – María Lucia Peréz (“Mamá Chila”): Gloria’s mother, María Lucia, was a key figure in their community. Known as “Mamá Chila,” she became a beloved community leader in Moravia who cared for up to 15 children at a time, many of whom had parents who worked long hours or were unable to care for them. Mamá Chila was one of the first “community mothers” in Moravia and played a pivotal role in helping other families through times of hardship. She became a matriarch not only of her family but also of the entire neighborhood, embodying the spirit of solidarity and care that defined Moravia.
- Loss of husband and brothers: Gloria’s life was marked by tragedy when her husband was killed in 1988, then a brother in 1991, another bother in 1993 and the last one in 2009. The drivers of the violence several (Pablo Escobar’s violence, gangs violence, extortions). Despite the immense pain, Gloria showed remarkable resilience, continuing to raise her daughter and fight for the improvement of her community.
Transformation of Moravia:
- Community Leader in Moravia: Inspired by her mother’s leadership, Gloria became an active community organizer and advocate for the people of Moravia. Her efforts, along with other leaders in the area, eventually led to the cleaning up and transformation of Moravia, which had long been an infamous part of the city. This transformation involved not only physical changes but also the empowerment of the community through culture and art.
Resilience and Social Work:
- Overcoming Tragedy: Gloria lost three brothers and her husband to violence, but her determination and deep love for her community allowed her not only to survive but also to help lead Moravia towards a better future. She played a significant role in the “Macro Proyecto de Moravia” with the local government that led to the re-allocation of the garbage mound and the resettlement of families in the early 2000s. Althogh things didnt work out as the local government promised, this is still a milestone in Moravia’s history.
- Fighting for a Better Future: Despite the continued economic struggles in Moravia, where many families still live in poverty, Gloria continues to fight for social justice, equality, and opportunities for the people in her neighborhood. Her story exemplifies resilience, hope, and the power of community in overcoming adversity. She leads the “Encuentro de Lideres” project, in her words “to take care of those who took care of us”.
Role in Barrio Transformation Tour:
- Guide and Storyteller: Gloria is our co-guide on the Barrio Transformation Tour: Colombia, where she shares her personal story and the story of Moravia with visitors. As someone who has witnessed and contributed to the remarkable transformation of the neighborhood, Gloria offers a unique perspective on the power of community, resilience, and change. Her stories provide an in-depth understanding of the struggles and triumphs of those living in one of the most historically stigmatized areas of Medellín.
How to help Gloria?
- To Help Those Who Helped Us: Gloria currently runs “Encuentro De Lideres”. A project to make sure that those old inhabitants of Moravia, who made active part of the transformation but now are lacking a basic income still get access to basic baskets to dignigfy their days. This basket contains essential items such as vegetables, fruits, carbohydrates, proteins, and personal hygiene products. She identifies vulnerable families, purchases the goods, and delivers them. A 10% goes to Gloria as a service fee to help support her family. Real City Tours collects the funds, covers transaction fees, and transfers the full amount to Gloria, who will provide proof of donation and the receiving family.
- You can help Glorias proyects in Moravia in this Community Leader in Moravia Donation Link
In Summary, Gloria is a dedicated community leader in Moravia, mother, and survivor. Her life has been shaped by the struggles and violence of Medellín but also by her relentless drive to improve her neighborhood, Moravia. Her work in the community, especially with the Cultural Development Center, has empowered many to break the cycle of poverty and violence. As a guide on the Barrio Transformation Tour, Gloria offers an intimate look at the changes in Moravia, from the toxic dump to a vibrant neighborhood full of life, culture, and art. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and the enduring power of community.
You can help Glorias proyects in Moravia in this Community Leader in Moravia Donation Link
