A Camera, a Calling, and a Cross-cultural Journey

Not all professional journeys are built in offices or production studios. Some unfold across cultures, languages, and beliefs—often in complex and demanding environments. Such is the experience of Javier Guichard, a graduate of Montemorelos University’s communication program in Mexico, who now lives and serves in Lebanon.

Thousands of miles from home, he uses his camera not only to document university life at Middle East University but also to capture stories of faith, resilience, and purpose in a region where communicating hope requires sensitivity, creativity, and conviction.

The desire to serve had been growing in Guichard for years. Since high school he felt called to volunteer abroad, though during his university years he chose to wait. After graduation that calling resurfaced. Confirmation came in an unexpected way during his participation in the 2025 General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he presented his independent audiovisual project, Asno Parlante, developed with his twin brother, David.

Amid hallways, conversations, and seemingly casual encounters, something shifted. Seeing the work of institutions from around the world awakened in Guichard a desire to become part of that global movement of service. What began as an exchange of contacts quickly turned—within days—into a concrete invitation to serve at Middle East University in Beirut. Without having every detail in place, he made a decision grounded in faith: to go where the first door opened.

Today Guichard works in the university’s Marketing Department as a photographer and videographer. His role involves capturing the essence of campus life—from classes and student activities to promotional content that reflects the identity of an Adventist institution in a deeply diverse context. But communicating in the Middle East involves much more than technical skill.

In an environment where most students are not Adventist—and many are not even Christian—every image and video requires a thoughtful approach. Guichard has had to rethink how he communicates, setting aside the direct style he was accustomed to and learning to connect within the cultural context of those around him.

He has discovered that in this setting the message is not always stated explicitly, but is built, suggested, and lived.

His work extends beyond the institutional setting. Outside of his professional responsibilities he participates in activities with the university church, collaborating in community initiatives in contexts where open proselytizing is not possible. This has led him to find new ways to share his faith.

Interestingly, one of the most meaningful impacts he has made has not come through his professional work, but in everyday spaces. On the university’s volleyball courts, Guichard has built relationships with students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment of respect, inclusion, and teamwork. What began as a simple game has become an opportunity to positively influence the culture among young people.

Living in Lebanon has also brought challenges that go beyond the professional sphere. In a context marked by tension and conflict—where explosions can sometimes be heard and daily life is a constant reminder of the fragility of life—his experience has taken on a deeper spiritual dimension.

Far from his family and everything familiar, he has learned to depend on God in a personal, real, and consistent way. His faith has shifted from something inherited to something deeply his own.

In this process the training he received at Montemorelos University has been key. The technical skills he developed have enabled him to take on a comprehensive role in audiovisual production, carrying projects from concept to execution. Beyond technical preparation, he recognizes that the values he learned—a passion for service and a vision for initiative—are what give meaning to his work today.

Guichard’s story continues to unfold in Beirut. His impact, as he acknowledges, is only just beginning.

The original version of this story was posted on the Inter-American Division news site.