Name

Alejandra Cano

Major/Minor/Field of Study

Native American Studies

Class Standing

Ph.D. Candidate

Graduation Year

2025

Program Title and Location

Global Grad Grants, Colombia

What motivated or led you to participate in your global learning program?

My deep commitment to anti-colonial approaches and cross-cultural knowledge exchange motivated me to participate in my global learning program. My work as an agroecologist focuses on integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) with environmental science, particularly in the conservation of stingless honey bees and eco-cultural health. Engaging in global networks through this program allowed me to amplify Indigenous perspectives, like those of the Embera community I work with, and contribute to climate justice and sustainable practices that bridge local knowledge with global solutions.

What was your experience like in this program? What did you learn from your experience: interacting with other people and cultures; academics; addressing global challenges; and/or developing global skills and leadership?

My experience in this program was deeply enriching, allowing me to engage with diverse perspectives and build cross-cultural relationships. Interacting with diverse people and cultures broadened my understanding of how both local and global contexts shape conservation practices. I learned how crucial it is to center Indigenous peoples and TEK when addressing global challenges like biodiversity loss and climate change. Academically, it reinforced the importance of situating conservation efforts within socio-cultural dynamics. This understanding has sharpened my ability to navigate and lead within global networks to create more inclusive, sustainable solutions.

What was the most challenging part of your program and the most rewarding?

The most challenging part of being abroad was not having easy access to the comfort food I was used to. However, I overcame this challenge by opening my mind to new foods and tastes. The most rewarding aspect was contributing to the revitalization of the Embera People’s relationship to stingless honey bees —like (re)membering six names of different species in Êbêrâ Β'e'dea, their native language.

What’s one of your most memorable experiences from your program?

One of my most memorable experiences while abroad in Colombia was working alongside Embera youth in Chigorodó to transfer wild stingless bee hives into beekeeping boxes. We tended to the bees and, after several months, harvested the medicinal honey to share with the community. This hands-on knowledge exchange is revitalizing eco-cultural practices and integrating contemporary beekeeping practices, both of which contribute to pollinator conservation.

What advice do you have for someone considering your program or a global experience, in general? What would you like to share with students who might have similar identities or experiences as you?

I advise anyone considering a global experience to approach it with humility and a willingness to listen and learn from others, especially those whose knowledge systems might differ from your own. For students committed to decolonial approaches or who embody non-dominant identities and experiences, know that your perspective is valuable in global spaces. Embrace the opportunity to cross-pollinate ideas and practices that integrate your values and community-based knowledge.

How do you think your program experiences will benefit you in the future—thinking academically, future career goals, or personally?

My experiences in Colombia, thanks to the Global Grand Grant, will benefit me in numerous ways. Academically, they have deepened my understanding of how to respectfully collaborate with Indigenous Peoples to co-produce knowledge that advances environmental and community resilience. The skills I gained in cross-cultural collaboration will help me navigate global conservation networks that work toward more inclusive, community-centered environmental solutions. Personally, this experience has reinforced my commitment to decolonial practices and maintaining strong, reciprocal relationships with the communities where I work.

Identities or Experiences

First Generation Student, Graduate Student, Scholarship Recipient, Student of Color (Black, Indigenous, Person of Color)

Please elaborate on any other identities or experiences that impacted your program decisions or time on the program.

As a mestiza, a mixed-race person whose ancestors were colonizer and colonized, my identity deeply influenced my decision to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples to advance a research agenda that revitalizes eco-cultural practices. Further, my identity as a Colombian-American helped me navigate the complexities of cross-cultural interactions, allowing me to see value in braiding different knowledge systems, and it reaffirmed my commitment to decolonial approaches in environmental work.

About the Global Learning Hub at UC Davis

As a part of Global Affairs, the Global Learning Hub aims to inspire and advance global curiosity, understanding, and engagement.

Through the Global Learning Hub, every UC Davis student can find global learning opportunities available on campus, in the region, virtually, and internationally. The Hub offers global learning programs, workshops, and resources that enhance all UC Davis students’ academic and career pursuits through four broad areas of opportunities: Community Engagement; Global Skills and Leadership; Internships and Research; and Study Abroad. UC Davis is committed to preparing the next generation of global problem solvers and change makers. As such, we aim to prepare our undergraduate, graduate, and professional students to solve global challenges collaboratively, equitably, and sustainably.