The recent news that several Covid-19 vaccines are likely to be highly effective have been received with relief all over the world. There is light at the end of the tunnel. The situation everyone had to endure for ten months is going to come to an end soon.

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This one-in-a-lifetime crisis has been experienced with great difficulty by many: we’ve seen, day in day out and in all corners of the world, not only the direct effects of the disease, but also the secondary effects such as unemployment, poverty, and social isolation. In addition, it has heightened the sense of vulnerability that many of us feel, whether for our own health or for that of the planet.

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But it has also seen the very best of the human condition on display at times, too: solidarity, friendship, generosity towards colleagues, neighbours, friends, and relatives... Within our institution signs of this have been manifest: whether discretely or publicly, individually or collectively, by volunteering in a community, or by contributing to fund-raising campaigns, or just by taking time to listen to others.

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Historically, crises have been times to show that beyond our diversity there is much more that holds us in common. We often undervalue the fact that we share basic needs, wishes and life expectations, focusing instead on what divides us. It is when confronted by transcendental moments such as the present that the need for interaction, strong and active social and family networks, and the needs of others, make themselves apparent.

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The last few months have tested our endurance but conversely proven yet again, how important it is to be part of society and to experience a sense of community. Taking the individual decision to participate in artistic, cultural or sporting activities, or any other socially or community-focused activity is an opportunity to develop skills and contribute something back to society. More, such activities help build the rounded set of life experiences necessary to fulfil the demands of work and encourage a more healthy approach to work-life balance.

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Raul Trujillo Herrera

TAO-AFI President