Building bridges between identities – Ashley's Story   

I was born and raised in Barcelona with my younger brother. My parents had moved there from Ecuador in their twenties, along with other family members. Life felt settled until I was fifteen, when my family made the difficult decision to migrate. We moved to Reading, England, a place that felt completely unfamiliar. 

The change was a shock, but also an opportunity. I had to adapt quickly to a new language, culture, and school system. My parents were still learning English, so I often helped them navigate everyday life while focusing on doing well at college. When it came time to apply for university, I knew London was not financially realistic. I wanted somewhere busy but affordable, and Cardiff felt right. My partner choosing Swansea University also helped draw me to Wales. 

I still remember the journey to Cardiff. Our whole family squeezed onto a National Express coach with all our luggage. We arrived early in the morning, took a taxi through the city, and only later realised we had taken a very long and expensive route to my accommodation. But it felt like an adventure. Growing up, we rarely had the chance to travel, so those few days together in a hotel before term started felt special. 

Seven years later, Wales feels like home. That sense grew through community, landscape, and small moments of belonging. One morning, cycling to Mumbles, I watched children laughing, dogs running ahead of prams, neighbours greeting each other by the sea. Standing there, looking out over the water, I felt grounded in a way I had not before. 

During my medical training, my connection to Wales deepened. One placement at Withybush Hospital stayed with me. A Welsh speaking mother brought her child in, and the daughter translated during the consultation. I recognised myself in that moment. I had translated for my own parents many times growing up. What once felt like a burden now felt like care. I tried a few Welsh phrases, bore da and shwmae, and the atmosphere changed instantly. It was a small gesture, but it built trust and respect. 

I still miss things. Family gatherings in Spain and Ecuador. The food, the spice, the warmth. But Wales has given me something different. Strong friendships, supportive communities, and a pace of life shaped by the sea and by kindness. 

Looking ahead, I see myself becoming a doctor, possibly in emergency medicine or anaesthetics. I may train abroad for a while, but I know I want to return. I imagine walking a future dog along the beach, waves at my feet, sunset on my face. That image feels like home. 

My story is not just about moving countries. It is about learning to belong. About translation, both literal and cultural. About building bridges between identities. Home is not fixed to a map. It is built through care, connection, and being seen. 

What I value most about Wales is that people ask, “Where are you from?” not to judge, but to listen. That question gives me space to exist fully. I did not always feel that elsewhere. 

I am grateful. For the chance to study without juggling multiple jobs. For the support systems that helped me thrive. Soon, I will graduate as a doctor, the first in my family. I worked hard, but I could not have done it without Wales giving me opportunities and believing in my potential.