Hector Aristizábal grew up in the neighborhoods of Medellin, Colombia, facing significant challenges such as poverty, the temptations of drugs, and pervasive violence from various factions including guerrillas, paramilitary groups, drug cartels, and government forces. As a young actor and psychology student, Hector was detained by the military, subjected to torture, and later found solace in nonviolent activism both in Colombia and during his years of exile in the United States.
Despite the adversity he faced, Hector utilized his theatrical skills and psychological training to connect with marginalized and vulnerable communities, including at-risk youth, immigrants, and incarcerated individuals. He helped people explore and shape their own narratives and identities, while also grappling with questions surrounding his own identity and beliefs, particularly in relation to his revolutionary brother and another sibling who was gay. Through his experiences, Hector confronted his own motivations and began a journey towards healing his own emotional wounds.