Alexandra Falla’s journey into the field of human rights and migration began at the age of 20 when she first worked with UNICEF. Her mission was clear: to empower indigenous communities and vulnerable migrants along the border regions. This experience ignited a passion within her for advocating for displaced individuals, a commitment she carries with her today in her role as Field
Coordinator for the World Food Programme (WFP) in Peru. For Alexandra, migration is a human reality that demands action, empathy, and unwavering dedication.
When asked why she continues to dedicate herself to the cause, Alexandra says, “If we have the capacity to contribute, we should do it. It’s not enough to be aware of injustices, we need to take responsibility and use our skills to make a difference.”
Her path in human rights led her to pursue further education, enrolling in the International Migration Law course at the Sanremo Institute. This course was pivotal for Alexandra, as it expanded her perspective beyond her initial focus on unaccompanied adolescents. “Migration law is often taught from a global north perspective, and we need to understand how the policies affect regions like Latin America, where the challenges are different,” she notes.
Her participation in the course proved to be an essential step in her professional development. The course provided not just legal and policy insights but also an opportunity to exchange knowledge with experts from United Nations agencies, civil society organizations, and humanitarian institutions. “Listening to the experiences of professionals in various fields, I think this is a super-enriching value, because it allows us to build together and find ways to improve.”
Beyond theory, the course had a direct impact on Alexandra’s work. Her new responsibilities in monitoring and evaluation demanded a broader understanding of migration policies. “Although our agency is dedicated to food security, the project I was working on had to do with migration. I needed to have this focus, this experience.” The course equipped her with the necessary tools to approach migration holistically, enhancing her ability to design and assess programs that support displaced communities.
In addition to her professional achievements, Alexandra is actively involved in supporting individuals facing the complexities of displacement. She is currently assisting a refugee from Turkmenistan, a father of eight, who is struggling to navigate Peru’s legal system. “We’ve been able to help him secure his foreigner’s card, and now we’re working on his nationality application. It’s not easy, but it’s rewarding to know we’re making a difference,” she explains.
For those who are considering a career in human rights, Alexandra’s advice is straightforward: “This work is about service, not recognition. The real reward is seeing people’s rights fulfilled. If you want to make an impact, you need to leave your ego behind.”
The Sanremo Institute plays a crucial role in equipping professionals like her with the tools, networks, and expertise needed to address migration challenges effectively. Through its specialized courses and global community, the Institute continues to support participants in turning learning into action.
