Celebrating 25 years of Olarain: the reunion of a community that feels like family.
Some celebrations are measured by the number of guests, others by the warmth of the hugs.What we experienced on Saturday, April 25, at Olarain undoubtedly belonged to the latter. Around 350 of us gathered under our terrace marquee to blow out the candles for our 25th anniversary cake, in a celebration filled with authenticity and affection .
Since we opened our doors in San Sebastián’s El Antiguo neighborhood back in 2001, Olarain has been home to more than 2,300 university students and athletes. But numbers don’t tell the real story, the one heard throughout the celebration in the laughter of former residents who hadn’t seen each other for years, and in the anecdotes shared with the staff who watched them grow.
A reunion full of “magic”
The atmosphere created the perfect blend of celebration and nostalgia. While enjoying an excellent dinner by Sharma Catering and great music, we watched videos that took us on a journey through time: from the construction of the building in its early days to the vibrant daily life that now fills the corridors of this student residence.
For Idurre Altuna, our Director, the day was an emotional whirlwind. “For me, it was a gathering filled with affection and friendship, a chance to relive anecdotes with residents I hadn’t seen in years.” Idurre explains. “I felt that everyone was ready to enjoy the moment and share it with others; for me, it was something truly magical.”
The invisible thread connecting generations
Olarain has evolved from a bold and innovative project into a leading accommodation provider for students and athletes in Donostia / San Sebastián.Along the way, however, its greatest achievement has been the human touch. Javier Marín, Director of Residents, defines it perfectly: “OLARAIN is not just a place to stay; it’s a place where stories intersect and where something is built that goes far beyond these walls. Celebrating 25 years means celebrating those who made this journey possible.”
Javier highlights that sense of belonging that is passed from one generation to the next: “Understanding that you are part of something that started before you and will continue after you leave is one of the greatest gifts this residence can offer. That invisible thread connecting generations is our greatest treasure.” Today, that thread connects residents from places as distant as the US, Japan, Ghana, and Germany, reminding us that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.
Tributes to those who have left their mark
The evening was also an opportunity to honor those who have made an indelible contribution to Olarain. We presented a commemorative artwork by illustrator Mikel Casal to individuals and entities who are part of our DNA:
- Olarain’s shareholder companies.
- Luis Javier Martínez Múgica, our very first employee, who has dedicated 24 years of his life to Olarain.
- Jorge Vitorica, our longest-standing resident (11 years in this house), who also met Elena at Olarain.
- Institutions such as Real Sociedad Foundation, walking hand in hand with us since 2001.
- The Campos Bueno Family, in recognition of their loyalty .
- Mikel Casal, and Ramón & Iker from the company Guinaba.
And, of course, there was one toast that simply had to be made. A toast to Paco Marín, the alma mater of Olarain who passed away recently. As his son Javier so beautifully expressed: “I missed my aita (father); he would be so proud to see all these people here. His spirit and his way of understanding life will continue to be present in every corner of Olarain.”
Observing to continue growing
For those of us who make up the Olarain team, this anniversary has been a moment for reflection. Igor Urbizu, Olarain’s Psychologist and Tutor, experienced the celebration from the perspective of someone who has worked in almost every role within the residence, from reception to student support: “I really enjoyed meeting everyone again and, above all, hearing about each former resident’s professional and personal journeys. It was especially meaningful to see the full range of guests gathered together; beyond the residents, there were people and institutions that give meaning to Olarain’s story: Yuwa, Biziraun, local universities, suppliers, Real Sociedad Fundazioa, and my colleagues.”
Looking to the future
Reaching our 25th anniversary inspires us to continue innovating with the same enthusiasm we had at the beginning. We remain committed to a model of personalized welcome and support, rooted in authenticity and closeness, as well as to a strong commitment to sustainability and excellence.
Our heartfelt thanks to our founding entities, Ekintza Fundazioa and PBP Olarain; to the universities, EHU, Tecnun, Deusto, Musikene, and Mondragon Unibertsitatea; and to every single resident who has made this place their home.
Olarain is celebrating 25 years, but the best part is that this is only the beginning.
