A recent research project has placed the experiences of young migrants and refugees in northern Chile at the forefront through the use of photovoice, a participatory methodology that combines photography with collective reflection. Developed the within Escuela de Investigadores, the initiative engaged adolescents aged 13 to 19 as active co-researchers.
Over several months, participants documented their lived experiences through images, exploring themes such as identity, belonging, exclusion, and future aspirations. The process included training in research methods alongside facilitated discussions that encouraged critical thinking and the collective production of knowledge. The project also incorporated creative elements, including writing and artistic interventions of the photographs.
Among its key outcomes, the initiative helped challenge negative stereotypes surrounding migrant communities while strengthening participants’ confidence and skills. Final exhibitions provided an opportunity for the young researchers to share their perspectives with broader audiences, including academic and policy communities.
Grace Amigo, research lead of the photovoice-based research–intervention Escuela de Investigadores. This project was developed in collaboration with Núcleo Milenio MIGRA, reinforcing the Núcleo’s commitment to innovative, inclusive, and socially impactful research. This work highlights the potential of participatory and arts-based methodologies to foster youth agency, strengthen community ties, and contribute to more inclusive and responsive public policymaking.
Our work is important, so we appreciate it if you cite the use of the code and figures available in this repository.
MIGRA, N. (2024). MIGRA Repository (Version 2.0.4) [Computer software].
@software{MIGRA_Repositorio_MIGRA_2024,
author = {MIGRA, NÚCLEO},
month = may,
title = {MIGRA Repository},
version = {2.0.4},
year = {2024}
}