A young opposition activist is gearing up for an extraordinary journey. His plan involves trekking through seven countries and a perilous jungle to reach the United States, driven by the political turmoil in his homeland.
Simultaneously, a dedicated journalist is on the brink of abandoning everything she knows to build a new life abroad, seeking the promise of stability and opportunities beyond Venezuela’s borders.
Meanwhile, a 60-year-old lawyer is gripped by fear as she contemplates the looming departure of her last daughter, torn between the desire for her child’s safety and the attachment to their homeland.
For thousands of Venezuelans, a pivotal date looms large on the horizon: July 28. On this day, the country will conduct a high-stakes presidential election that will shape the nation’s future.
If the incumbent authoritarian leader, Nicolás Maduro, secures victory, many have resolved to flee. Conversely, if the opposition candidate emerges triumphant, they pledge to remain and rebuild their lives in Venezuela.
“Everyone echoes the same sentiment,” expressed Leonela Colmenares, 28, the young opposition activist. “If Maduro retains power, they are making plans to leave.”
Approximately a quarter of Venezuela’s population has already sought refuge elsewhere, with nearly eight million individuals residing in foreign lands, as reported by the United Nations. This mass exodus has contributed to one of the most significant migration crises globally, underscoring the depth of challenges faced by Venezuelans.
