Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Ojeda Amaya Deibi, a postgraduate student and assistant in the Department of Human Ecology and Bioelementology at the Institute of Ecology at RUDN University, won the All-Russian "Flagships of Education" competition, part of the "Russia – Land of Opportunities" platform. In the "Culture" track, he was among the top 40 educators and administrators from 27 regions of the country.
For the Colombian, this victory is not just a personal achievement, but a launchpad for a unique project that unites two cultures and helps international students find their place in Russia. We spoke with the graduate student and learned how the magic of Marquez and Bulgakov helps foreigners adapt to our country and why it's impossible to learn a language without culture.
The "Flagships of Education" competition brought together the best. What does winning the "Culture" track mean to you?
This is an event I want not only to document, but to preserve. The "Culture" track is for those who believe that art, traditions, and values can inspire learning. Participating was a serious professional challenge, but here I met colleagues from all over the country with whom we speak the same language—the language of a love of education. For me, this victory is the start of new projects. And, as I always say, it's impossible to fully understand Russian culture without speaking Russian!
What sparked your belief in the power of culture? Was there a special teacher or event?
As a child, I was deeply inspired by the works of Gabriel García Márquez—One Hundred Years of Solitude and Nobody Writes to the Colonel. Through them, I first felt the power of my native culture. And when I came to Russia almost seven years ago (I'm now studying and working at RUDN University), I realized a key thing: to adapt and learn the language, you need to understand the country's traditions and culture. I was captivated by Bulgakov's The Master and Margarita, Pushkin's The Queen of Spades, and the films Operation Y and Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears. This was my cultural gateway to Russia.
You worked on your own project at the competition. What was it about?
The project is called "Open Colombia and Russia." It's an initiative to promote cultural adaptation for international students arriving in Russia to study. We create a space for dialogue where, through an understanding of traditions, language, and values, students can more quickly overcome cultural shock and begin to feel a part of Russian society. It's a bridge of mutual understanding.
You called the victory "the start of a new phase." What specific steps are you planning?
The victory opened new horizons. I'm already being invited as a lecturer not only at the regional but also at the federal level: to the Moscow Longevity program, to the M.I. Rudomino Library of Foreign Literature, and, of course, to RUDN University, as well as to other universities. Being a winner gives me the opportunity to be a project ambassador and participate in key educational and cultural events. I plan to actively share this experience with my RUDN University students and colleagues to implement best practices in cultural education at our university.
Ojeda Amaya's victory is a shining example of how RUDN University's values (internationalism, cultural integration, and high-quality education) are embodied in the successes of our employees.
The Institute of Ecology congratulates its colleague and looks forward to seeing his projects implemented within the university!
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