Vivir al margen y crear infraestructuras: Jóvenes y Espacio en una periferia de Cali – Colombia

Public spaces are structuring settings with significant value in cities, yet in Colombia they often show deterioration and limited accessibility in vulnerable contexts. Therefore, it is important to study space and well-being to generate discussions that contribute to solutions in complex societies. The aim of this article is to analyze how young people on the periphery of Comuna 18 in Cali, Colombia, construct well-being through territorial leadership and uses of public space. Theoretically, the study employed an intersectional approach within urban studies, along with understandings of public space, the right to the city, infrastructure, and well-being. Methodologically, it followed a qualitative and transdisciplinary orientation, incorporating a participatory design with inclusive techniques such as walking interviews and a co-creation workshop. The results highlight that young people experience socio-spatial segregation and, in response to the challenges posed by this phenomenon, lead processes to confront urban inequality and the absence of inclusive planning. In conclusion, for young people, well-being is collective, and public space retains social dimensions more than physical ones. Moreover, from a comprehensive notion of infrastructures, public space must be strengthened socially/physically/institutionally in urban planning and development.