The photoset I have curated reflects my experiences as an LGBTQIA+ individual navigating life abroad. My specific journey takes place in Sevilla, Spain. Traveling to a foreign country brings a unique blend of wonder, cultural curiosity, and challenges. But I also found myself in an uncertain place, surrounded by unfamiliar cultural norms and societal expectations.  

Through this project, I aim to share the moments of joy, growth, and inclusion that defined my time abroad while offering insight into the complexities of living authentically in unfamiliar spaces. 

Arriving in Sevilla walking across the main square across from my apartment

Taking in the culture and learning the history of the city 

Each image encapsulates a different facet of my journey: the initial overwhelm of being in a new place, the quiet solitude of introspection, the joy of finding community, and the liberation of self-expression within this new environment. While many of these moments reflect the broader queer experience, others are deeply rooted in the specific cultures I immersed myself in. 

Me (second from right) out to dinner with my friends

Pride Parade in downtown 

I was welcomed by everyone and met several people who invited me to walk with them 

Being abroad was, in many ways, an experience of duality. When I first arrived, I felt stressed and uncertain, struggling to navigate the norms and expectations of my new surroundings. However, over time, I discovered vibrant queer communities and supportive allies who provided me with a sense of belonging and validation. 

An example of posters in a dedicated LGBTQ+ restaurants in Sevilla. “Orgullo” means “Pride.” 

A special Flamenco performance during pride in which 2 men danced together  

I hope this photoset serves not only as a personal narrative but also as a medium for fostering cross-cultural understanding and empathy. It underscores the need to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights on a global scale while celebrating the progress and safe spaces that exist, even in the most unexpected corners of the world. By sharing these experiences, I aim to highlight both the challenges and triumphs of living authentically as a queer person abroad. 

Going for a walk at the beach (Taking time for myself to think) 

Me (far right) with my friends for the last night before we left. Sharing gratitude to those who made me feel special and loved 

Through these photographs, I hope to inspire solidarity and connection by reflecting on my journey. My aim is to reach those who may feel isolated in their own experiences, encouraging them to embrace their identities and recognize that, though imperfect, the world holds spaces where they can thrive and be authentically themselves. I also hope it serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating inclusivity and supporting one another in building a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered to be who they are. 

 
This post was written by Lindsey Wilhelm, a CEA CAPA Alumni Ambassador, from Baylor University and studied abroad in Seville, Spain.