NATALY BURGZORG

The journey of the resilient

Uncertainties looming in Venezuela, made me question my future and that of my country. What would become of tomorrow? Were we safe? So, my husband and I decided to leave with our children.

I was hopeful. Excited for a new beginning that Curacao would offer. Those already there spoke of an easy transition. But upon arrival I soon noticed, it was not the picture perfect that we were promised.

Little did I know, our ordeal had just started. Unable to find a job as a graphic designer, I had to settle with whatever I could find. And so I did, three different jobs to make ends meet. I needed to survive and provide. Depending on tipping customers for my family’s next meal. I will never forget that Christmas. A local man refused to pay my husband for his work after it was finished. Instead he threatened him with deportation. Despite the financial difficulties, I still made it work.

A new year came, but the uncertainty remained. I slowly slipped into a depression. Not knowing when it would pass, but still struggling to get by. Still stressed, still afraid we were going to be deported. That it was all for nothing.

Unplanned by me, I became pregnant. A blessing amidst the chaos. Ow, and then it happened. My fear became true. One day as I left my job, a white van pulled up. I knew then that I had ran out of time. Facing deportation, suddenly a sign of hope. Maybe I could stay. The law was on my side. But once they found out I was pregnant, they took away my right and pressured me into turning in my family. I denied and got deported.

Yet, I refused to give up. One year later I returned to Curaçao. To be reunited with my family. Though this time I was stronger and wiser then when I left.

Basado en experiencias de J.S.