PodMudar, a podcast from the Universidade Católica Portuguesa dedicated to stories of volunteerism and social impact, supported by Renascença, releases its second episode featuring Catarina Santos Silva, a former student at the Universidade Católica's Faculty of Education and Psychology in Porto Campus, who shares her journey marked by supporting hospitalized children, vulnerable families, and migrants in an international context. The conversation is led by Rita Curvelo, a professor at the Universidade Católica’s Faculty of Human Sciences and host of the podcast. 

At 24, Catarina Santos Silva holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in forensic psychology and deviant behavior. Driven by a desire to put her knowledge to work for others, she volunteered in the pediatric ward at São João Hospital through the Ronald McDonald House in Porto between 2021 and 2022, and in 2024, she joined the international Fly program run by the organization No Name Kitchen in Ventimiglia, Italy, supporting migrants in their integration and transition processes. 

In this episode, our guest reflects on the impact her academic training had in preparing her for demanding human realities and on the emotional challenges of supporting sick children and their families during particularly difficult times. The conversation also addresses the lessons learned, challenges faced, and achievements experienced on the ground while working with migrants and refugees in a context marked by vulnerability, but also by resilience and hope. 

“Often, the toughest moments are the ones that bring the most beautiful rewards” Catarina shares, summing up the sentiment that has guided her volunteer journey, from her experience at Ronald McDonald House to her mission with No Name Kitchen in Ventimiglia. 

Throughout the interview, listeners will gain a better understanding of the work carried out by volunteers, the preparation needed to navigate emotionally demanding situations, and the personal and professional skills that volunteering helps develop. The episode also highlights the importance of social inclusion and a compassionate response to today’s migration challenges. Listeners who wish to support this cause can contribute to the work of No Name Kitchen through donations, volunteering, or by spreading the word about its mission within their communities.

As part of the celebrations of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, PodMudar will give a voice to students and alumni of Universidade Católica, seeking to inspire the academic community to engage in volunteering and social impact projects.

The second episode is now available on the Católica`s Spotify channel or at popcasts.pt.