In a celebration of language and culture that transcends borders, the University of Almería’s Centro de Lenguas hosted a distinguished literary event this week, bringing together students and poetry enthusiasts for an intimate encounter with one of Spain’s most celebrated contemporary voices. Poet Virginia Fernández Collado, an Almería native and educator, shared her work with an audience of Spanish language learners and members of the university community, offering a masterclass in both artistic expression and linguistic beauty.
The event, part of the annual Encuentros con Escritoras series—launched in the 2023-2024 academic year—highlighted Fernández Collado’s unique ability to weave cultural narratives through her poetry. Her recent collections, including Desierto (2024) and Pétalos de anhelo (2025), draw inspiration from diverse traditions, such as the works of the 9th-century Japanese poet Ono no Komachi, one of the Rokkasen or “Six Poetic Immortals” of Japan’s Heian period. The session included readings from these collections, alongside discussions on her creative process and the interplay between language, memory, and identity.
Fernández Collado, who holds a degree in Business Administration and currently teaches at a secondary school in Almería, has published multiple volumes of poetry, including Depredador (2016), Poemas, 2006-2016 (2017), and Bosque (2020). Her work often explores themes of resilience, nature, and cross-cultural dialogue, resonating deeply with students studying Spanish as a foreign language. The event underscored the university’s commitment to fostering linguistic and cultural exchange, particularly through its Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) programs, which attract learners from around the world.
From Classroom to Stage: A Poet’s Journey
Born in Bédar, a small town in Almería’s province, Fernández Collado’s literary career reflects a lifelong dedication to the written word. Her poetry has been described as both introspective and expansive, bridging personal experience with universal themes. During the event, she discussed her early influences, including the Andalusian landscape and the oral traditions of her region, which she often incorporates into her work. The session also touched on her interdisciplinary background, noting how her studies in business and education have shaped her perspective as a writer.
Carmina García, director of the Centro de Lenguas, introduced Fernández Collado, emphasizing the importance of such encounters in enriching the academic experience. “These events are not just about language—they’re about connecting with the soul of a culture,” García said. “Virginia’s poetry does precisely that.” The event was co-organized with Esther González, the center’s subdirector, and featured an open dialogue with attendees, many of whom shared their own creative projects inspired by the poet’s work.
Why This Matters: Poetry as a Bridge Between Cultures
Fernández Collado’s visit aligns with a broader trend in language education, where literature and poetry are increasingly recognized as tools for immersive learning. By engaging directly with a poet whose work spans multiple cultures—from Andalusian traditions to classical Japanese poetry—the Centro de Lenguas demonstrates how language acquisition can be both intellectual and emotional. For students of Spanish as a foreign language, such experiences offer a deeper understanding of the language’s richness and the stories it carries.
The Encuentros con Escritoras series, now in its third year, has become a cornerstone of the university’s cultural programming. Past editions have featured authors from diverse linguistic backgrounds, including Latin American and Iberian writers, each bringing unique perspectives to the table. The series’ success has led to expanded participation, with students from the ELE programs actively contributing to discussions and collaborative projects.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Literary Exchange
As the Centro de Lenguas continues to host events like this, the focus remains on creating spaces where language learners can engage with the creators who shape their target culture. Fernández Collado’s visit is a testament to the power of poetry in bridging gaps—not just between languages, but between people. For those interested in attending future events, the Centro de Lenguas regularly updates its events calendar, which includes details on upcoming literary encounters, workshops, and cultural activities.
Next in the series, the university has announced plans to host a panel discussion on contemporary Latin American poetry in the fall of 2026, featuring authors from Argentina, Mexico, and Spain. The exact dates and themes will be released closer to the event, with registration opening in July.
Key Takeaways
- Cultural Exchange: The event highlighted how poetry and literature can deepen language learning by connecting students with the cultural context of Spanish.
- Interdisciplinary Background: Fernández Collado’s dual career as a poet and educator offers unique insights into the intersection of creativity and teaching.
- Series Growth: The Encuentros con Escritoras initiative has expanded since its 2023 launch, now including students from ELE programs and the broader university community.
- Global Inspirations: Her work often draws from international influences, such as Japanese classical poetry, showcasing the universal themes in her writing.
- Upcoming Events: The Centro de Lenguas will host a fall 2026 panel on Latin American poetry, with details to be announced.
For readers eager to explore Fernández Collado’s poetry further, her recent collections Desierto and Pétalos de anhelo are available through major book retailers and independent publishers in Spain. Her earlier works, including Depredador and Poemas, 2006-2016, are also widely accessible, offering a comprehensive view of her evolution as a writer.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the role of poetry in language learning. Share your experiences or recommendations in the comments below, or tag us on social media with @centrode_lenguas_ual to join the conversation.
Encuentro Literario: Virginia Fernández Collado
Nos complace invitar a toda la comunidad universitaria y amantes de las letras al próximo encuentro con la reconocida poeta almeriense Virginia Fernández Collado.