In a world where stigma often forces silence, one student is turning the tables by using his voice—and those of others—to break down barriers and spark meaningful conversations. “Entre Tabúes” is a groundbreaking podcast created by David Boada, a Biology student at the University of Alcalá, that gives a platform to individuals marginalized by society. By collecting raw, unfiltered interviews from people living with HIV, individuals who identify as non-binary, and even a sex worker who navigates her profession on platforms like OnlyFans, David’s project shines a light on topics too often shrouded in taboo.
This kind of initiative underscores the importance of the university in supporting socially conscious student projects. The University of Alcalá provides not only academic training but also an environment that encourages empathy, critical thinking, and civic engagement. Efforts like “Entre Tabúes” reflect a broader culture in higher education that empowers students to create real, impactful solutions through social innovation.
Redefining University Engagement
Traditionally, higher education has been synonymous with textbooks and lectures. However, modern universities are evolving into dynamic hubs of social innovation and community engagement. “Entre Tabúes” is a prime example of this transformation. By empowering fellow students to actively participate—from formulating the questions to sharing these compelling stories— Boada is influencing the university’s role in social change. His initiative embodies the third mission of higher education: to contribute actively to society beyond the confines of academic research and teaching.
Giving Voice to the Voiceless
At the heart of “Entre Tabúes” lies the belief that every story matters. In each episode, David interviews a diverse range of individuals, such as Oliver Marcos, a person living with HIV, Secretary General of Cesida, Celia Fernández, who self-identifies as non- binary, and Shelma, a sex worker breaking stereotypes on digital platforms. These conversations are born from questions anonymously gathered from fellow students— a testament to the courage and curiosity brewing within the university community. The project not only addresses prevalent myths and misinformation but also creates a safe space where sensitive topics can be discussed openly and respectfully.
A Catalyst for Social Innovation
David’s initiative exemplifies the spirit of engagement that ACEEU’s Spotlight magazine champions, specifically through third mission activities. “Entre Tabúes” leverages the academic environment to drive social innovation. Financed and supported by the Erasmus+ BeYou project, with mentorship from professors like Inés López and Luis Fernando Fernández Sánchez, the podcast illustrates how institutional support structures can fuel impactful, student-led projects.
The University of Alcalá fosters these initiatives through a combination of academic mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and access to institutional networks and resources. By encouraging student creativity and supporting projects that address social
challenges, the university acts as an incubator for civic engagement. Programs like BeYou and the involvement of dedicated faculty provide a structured framework that transforms bold student ideas into real-world impact.
This support, coupled with modern digital platforms, has enabled the project to reach a staggering audience—over 1.9 million views on TikTok, 60,000 followers on Instagram, and a growing listenership on Spotify. Such numbers speak volumes about the hunger for authentic dialogue and the potential of universities to act as change agents in society.
Entre Tabúes channel on Instagram.
Engaging the Community Through Authentic Dialogue
“Entre Tabúes” isn’t just about breaking the silence—it’s about engaging the community in a conversation that matters. It is a unique example of how a university fosters engagement with vulnerable groups through third mission activities. By giving a voice to those often sidelined by mainstream narratives, David’s podcast encourages empathy and understanding among listeners. Students who contributed questions found that their curiosity led to a deeper understanding of complex social issues. This process of co- creation not only enriches the project but also serves as an educational tool, helping young people gauge the depth of their own misconceptions and the importance of open dialogue.
This dynamic is sustained within the university through an ecosystem that values participatory learning and social responsibility. At the University of Alcalá, initiatives like Entre Tabúes are supported through concrete structures such as the Innovation and Social Commitment Unit (Unidad de Innovación y Compromiso Social), which promotes student-led projects with a clear social impact. Additionally, the Erasmus+ BeYou project, coordinated by the university itself, provides funding and a European framework for inclusion and youth empowerment, enabling students to design and execute socially relevant initiatives. Faculty members such as Inés López Baldominos and Luis Fernández Sanz play a crucial role by integrating these activities into coursework and offering personalized mentorship that bridges academic learning with real-world application.
The Power of Social Media and Future Horizons
In today’s digital age, social media serves as a powerful amplifier for social initiatives. The digital footprint of “Entre Tabúes” is a testament to how a simple idea can resonate across borders. With its substantial following on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, the podcast has become a beacon for social change, inspiring listeners to challenge their preconceptions and engage in meaningful conversations.
Looking ahead, David plans to extend the reach of “Entre Tabúes” even further. One of his upcoming episodes aims to feature the story of a migrant currently residing in the Primo de Rivera barracks in Alcalá de Henares—a move that will broaden the dialogue and continue to tackle the issues of marginalization and misinformation from new angles.
A Model for the Future of Higher Education
“Entre Tabúes” is more than just a podcast—it is a microcosm of what modern, engaged universities can achieve. It illustrates how student-led projects can bridge the gap between academia and society, fostering an environment where open dialogue and innovative thinking lead to tangible social impact. In doing so, it aligns perfectly with ACEEU’s mission to recognize and reward initiatives that drive engagement and excellence in higher education.
As universities around the globe strive to balance academic excellence with societal relevance, David Boada’s project serves as a powerful reminder that real change begins with the courage to listen and the willingness to speak out. By breaking taboos and amplifying the voices of the often unheard, “Entre Tabúes” is not just transforming perceptions—it is reshaping the very fabric of how we approach education and social innovation.
In a complex world filled with challenges, the success of “Entre Tabúes” underscores the transformative potential that lies within every student and every institution willing to dare, disrupt, and dialogue.
Participating in the Triple E Awards in Lisbon was one of the most enriching experiences of my academic journey. From the very beginning, I was impressed by the level of organization, professionalism, and warmth that defined every aspect of the event. Beyond the recognition itself, what truly stood out to me was the opportunity to engage with other innovative initiatives, exchange ideas, and reflect on the evolving and transformative role of universities in today’s society.
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Images courtesy of the author