Lorena Ankuash, a student majoring in communication in our branch campus in Cuenca, became the first women of shuar nationality to win the “Reportaje RFI en español” prize which is awarded by Radio France International (RFI) in Latin America. Her reportage photography titled "Las maldades sí existen, creencias de la comunidad amazónica shuar", shows the connection between the shuar community and their belief in using traditional medicine instead of conventional medicine to treat illnesses that are considered incurable.

This international recognition not only highlights Lorena's journalistic talent, but also opens doors to future significant projects for her and her Shuar community. Lorena received a four-week funded internship in the Spanish editorial office of RFI in Paris.

 
Currently, she is working in the production of another report titled: "En París, tras la huella de la zampoña", a report focused on Andean musicians in Paris: “We know that in the 70s and 80s they were very popular, so the report shows the current reality that these musicians live today. That's why I called it that," she said.

 
Lorena is happy with the opportunity to conduct interviews in a completely new environment. “I have almost never left the city, much less to other countries. At first it was very difficult for me because I never imagined that I would have to travel alone to the interviews. This helped me to gain experience and also enjoy the city.” She also talked about her future plans and said her desire is to be a correspondent in international media.

 
Lorena Ankuash has become an inspiration for future generations of indigenous journalists, demonstrating that community voices can transcend borders. Her courage and dedication have allowed her to overcome cultural and geographical barriers.

The university is committed to its students’ education, not only developing their academic skills, but also ethical and cultural values. The university recognizes the importance of preserving the country’s cultural diversity.