Creating local impact for a global challenge

Gerardo Rangel García’s experience as an (S) Heroes Ambassador

Creating change within a local community

Sustainable development is often discussed as a global challenge. But real change usually takes shape in one’s local context. For Gerardo García Rangel, that place is Mexico. Originally from Mexico and currently studying Industrial Engineering, Gerardo joined the Time for (S) Heroes project through an internship at Xamk in Finland, where he worked on UX research. His role focused on listening. Conducting surveys, analysing user insights and understanding what different communities actually need from a platform built around sustainability, creativity and collaboration.

“Sustainable development is a global challenge, but its impact must be local.’’

Through this work, the project became more than a research task. What stood out to him was not only the theme of sustainability, but the way the project approached it through openness, dialogue and collaboration across borders.

Why becoming an ambassador felt like a natural next step

When Gerardo’s internship ended, stepping away from the project did not feel right. He had seen the project’s potential and relevance first-hand and wanted to continue contributing. The Ambassador Programme offered a way to do that, while also bringing the project’s ideas into a local context that mattered deeply to him. Gerardo strongly felt that the conversations and tools developed within Time for (S) Heroes were just as relevant in Mexico. Becoming an ambassador allowed him to act as a bridge between these contexts.

Learning, growth and stepping outside the comfort zone

Being an (S) Heroes Ambassador was a learning experience in many ways. Professionally, the role helped Gerardo strengthen his UX skills, develop ideas into clearer concepts and improve his ability to communicate in an international setting. Collaborating with people from different countries and disciplines pushed him to articulate his thinking more clearly and confidently.

Some of the most meaningful growth, however, happened on a personal level. Gerardo speaks openly about how the experience helped him deal with imposter syndrome. Being part of a supportive community where ideas were welcomed and taken seriously made it easier to trust his own perspective and vision.

“It has helped with my imposter syndrome and really taught me how to trust in myself. The Time for (S) Heroes community has given me so much support that it has made it easier to trust myself and my vision.”

Safe spaces as a foundation for change

One of the strongest lessons Gerardo took from the project was the importance of safe spaces. Within the Time for (S) Heroes community, he felt comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions and exploring uncertainty. This atmosphere of trust and openness stayed with him beyond the project itself.

“Working in the project taught me a lot about safe spaces and communication, and I felt very comfortable talking about my ideas.”

It motivated him to think about how similar environments could be created in his own community. Spaces where people feel safe to share ideas, learn together and develop solutions around sustainability and creativity. For Gerardo, this is what being an (S) Hero truly means. Not titles or achievements, but enabling others to participate and feel included.

The value of an international community

Being part of an international community has played a significant role in Gerardo’s journey. Coming to Finland exposed him to new ways of thinking about how meaningful change can happen within communities. Collaborating with people from different cultural and professional backgrounds showed how diverse perspectives can strengthen sustainability work rather than complicate it.

“It’s amazing being able to learn how to create positive change in all kinds of communities with people from different backgrounds.”

Through the Ambassador Programme, these connections continued across borders, reinforcing the idea that local action and global collaboration go hand in hand.

Who should consider becoming an (S) Heroes Ambassador?

According to Gerardo, the Ambassador Programme is not about fitting a specific profile. It is for people who want to create positive change in their communities. People who value empathy, listening and connection. A creative mindset helps, but curiosity and openness matter even more. Simply put, it is for those who want to build meaningful solutions for the future.

“Someone who wants to influence positive change and create a safe space in their community. It’s all about connecting with others and having empathy towards your community and environment.”

Looking ahead

The most meaningful part of being an (S) Heroes Ambassador for Gerardo has been the sense of community. The people, the conversations and the shared purpose have supported Gerardo’s growth both professionally and personally.

As Time for (S) Heroes moves into its next phase, with upcoming kick-off events and the launch of the digital portal, ambassadors play an important role in bringing the project into new local contexts. Gerardo’s story shows how a global challenge can be approached through local action, one community at a time.

Written by Alina Viontsek