I returned from Mexico in May 2008. I worked as a field volunteer for PBI's Mexico project for over a year. I found out about PBI's work through one of my lecturers at Bristol University where I received a degree in French and Spanish in 2003. At the time I felt I was too young and perhaps too inexperienced for PBI. However, after working as a tour leader in Latin America for 2 years and having gained experience in NGO work I decided to apply for the Mexico project in august 2006.

After a grueling selection process I was lucky enough to be accepted and set off for Mexico in January 2007. The experience was completely extraordinary. I have never been so totally involved in work as I am with PBI. It is a challenging position but the rewards are manifold. There are serious human rights issues to address in Mexico and I feel very privileged to be able to help in some way to raise awareness for these concerns.

It is a testing time for civil society in Mexico as a change of government in late 2006 has severely affected the work of local human rights groups and defenders. PBI's profile in the country has risen considerably in the last year or so and now works right at the heart of the human rights conflicts that are so particular to Mexico and especially the state of Guerrero.

On my return to the UK I have been helping out at the PBI UK office. I am happy to continue contributing to PBI's wonderful work.