Building Dignified Housing: Our Story in the DAAD Changemaker Series

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A recognition that comes full circle: from knowledge acquired in Germany to community transformation in the Dominican Republic

It is a profound honor that the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has featured the work of Casita para la Vida in their Changemaker Videos series, as part of their celebration of 100 years building bridges of knowledge between nations and cultures.

A Circle That Closes

For me, this recognition holds special and personal meaning. The DAAD gave me the opportunity to complete my master's and doctoral studies at the Universität Stuttgart, a transformative experience that deeply shaped my professional approach and social commitment. Today, that knowledge comes home, translates into concrete action, and serves the communities that need it most.

Dignified Housing: A Right Built in Community

Since 2015, Casita para la Vida has been working alongside families in informal settlements in the Dominican Republic, promoting the construction and repair of dignified housing through community participation. Our conviction is clear: dignified housing is not given as a gift—it is built in community.

This assisted self-help housing approach not only provides a safe roof, but strengthens community resilience, builds technical capacities, and restores dignity to those who transform their own homes with their hands.

Gratitude and Commitment

The DAAD video showcases our collaborative work with the Movimiento Comunitario Integral Los Alcarrizos, highlighting how the union of efforts—technical knowledge, community participation, and solidarity—makes it possible for entire families to be protected from the rain today, living with dignity in safe and healthy spaces.

I am deeply grateful to the DAAD not only for this recognition, but for making my academic training possible and for continuing to be a bridge between cultures, knowledge, and opportunities. In its 100-year history, the DAAD has transformed millions of lives through education—and mine is one of them.

Moving Forward

This recognition drives us to keep working, to keep believing that another model of city is possible, and to keep building dignified spaces alongside communities. Because the most powerful urban transformation doesn't come from above, but from within: from the hands, will, and heart of those who inhabit and build their own territories.

🎥 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/OEvVDTOhDI0?si=4LphLac48EeOSERD