We caught up with FFI’s Dana Jackson after her very first Friendship Force Journey — a vibrant, eye-opening experience in Chiapas, Mexico. Here’s what she shared about cultural connection, marimba concerts, and the magic of going with the flow.
FFI: What inspired you to join this Friendship Force journey to Chiapas?
Dana: It was my first-ever Friendship Force Journey, and I wanted to truly understand the heart of what we do. I’d never experienced home
WATCH: The celebration of Chiapo De Corzo
hosting before, so I went in with an open mind, ready to learn. A seasoned member told me to “stay flexible,” and they were absolutely right.That mindset helped make the entire experience unforgettable — even better than I imagined.
FFI: Was there a moment with your host family that really stood out?
Dana: Honestly, it’s hard to pick just one. Every laugh, meal, and shared story made a lasting impression. The Friendship Force of Tuxtla Guiterrez members worked so hard to make this journey special and they treated their guests with incredible hospitality and kindness.
FFI: What surprised you the most about Chiapas?
Dana: The richness of the culture blew me away. Each town — even those just minutes apart — had its own unique traditions, dress, and stories. It really made me think about how I’d share my culture with a visitor.
FFI: Tell us about some of the unforgettable activities. Dana: There were so many! We joined a day of the Feast of Chiapa de Corzo, learned about Mexico’s “Magic Towns,” and visited two marimba museums. One day, we had a private concert by a marimba family on the banks of the Rio Grande. Dancing with friends old and new, there was endless clapping and joy — it was truly unforgettable.
Talented students at the Centro Cultural Artex de San Juan Chamula
We also visited San Cristóbal and the indigenous village of Chamula, where we learned about their unique way of life and community rituals; it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our hosts made sure we understood local customs and how to show respect, which was incredibly important to all of us. We were also treated to a private tour of a local art gallery and school, where we admired the incredible talent of young artists. Add in a boat trip through a stunning canyon (with monkeys and alligators!) and a surprise welcome celebration — complete with flags, Coronas, and warm hugs — and it was pure magic and the perfect ending to an incredible Journey.
FFI: How did connecting with people deepen your understanding of the culture?
Dana: It showed me that experiencing a different culture firsthand — through the people who live it — is powerful. It brought everything to life. If anyone has the chance to join this journey when it’s repeated in January 2026, I thoroughly recommend it.
FFI: What’s one big takeaway from the Journey?
Dana: This might sound a bit cliche, but I truly learned the value of a growth mindset. My hosts and fellow travelers came from diverse backgrounds and our differences were undeniable. Yet, despite those differences— and different languages— we found a connection through curiosity, laughter, and an eagerness to embrace something new together. I left Chiapas feeling like I had made dozens of new friends. It reminded me how universal kindness and open-heartedness really are.
FFI: Any advice for someone thinking about their first Friendship Force journey?
Dana: Yes! Be ready to go with the flow. This isn’t a vacation — it’s an experience. And if you’re open to it, it might just be one of the most memorable adventures of your life.
Left to right: 1. Dana at the Palenque ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important archaeological site of the ancient Mayans. 2. A boat ride through the Sumidero Canyon, viewing spider monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas and many types of birds. 3. Inside the house of an artisan woman in the indigenous village of Zinacantan, where the group was treated to traditional food and crafts.
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You could join this same journey in 2026!
Discover more here about Friendship Force’s journey “The Great Feast of Chiapa de Corzo”, January 15 – 21, 2026
Secure your space today. Space is limited to 30 people.
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Featured image shows Mavi Ramirez and Veronica Ramirez Vázquez, daughters of Mavi Vázquez and Enrique Ramirez, Dana’s hosts in FF Tuxtula-Guiterrez