My name is Angel F. I am Venezuelan and I arrived in Brazil in 2021 in search of a fresh start.

I reached my destination with a suitcase full of courage, a backpack loaded with fears and uncertainties, and one last letter my mother wrote to bless me on this new journey.

At the airport, I was greeted by a sign that read “The colors of Brazil.” In that instant I was certain I had arrived at the right place. That was what I wanted for my life: colors, joy, and hope.

Over time I adapted to the new culture and the language. Brazil welcomed me with open arms and I took every opportunity to travel, learn, and get to know this amazing country better.

But life also put me through a great trial. I experienced a family tragedy that changed everything inside me. I sank into a deep depression and had to seek professional help. Being far from my family made everything even harder. It was a period of a lot of pain, silence, and questioning.

In that moment I had to look inward and make a choice: would I just survive or truly start over?

I chose to start over.

In that process, one thing was essential: people. Friends who walked with me, who offered me emotional and spiritual support when I needed it most, and who helped me not feel alone. Some of them are part of the CASA Association, and through those connections I was also invited to take part in the Young Leaders Program, which played an important role in my growth and maturity.

Those relationships, conversations, advice, and opportunities helped me see life with new eyes. Little by little I left the burdens behind and began to see possibilities where before there was only fear. I decided to focus on one word: evolve.

I began to take better care of my body, my mind, and my education. I intensified my Muay Thai practice, deepened my studies in gastronomy, was accepted into a modeling agency, and started creating online content, helping other people pursue financial and geographic freedom.

My sister’s arrival in Brazil strengthened my determination even more. As the older brother, I took on the responsibility of caring for her in this country that was also new to her. Being close to my family again brought me even greater joy and a stronger sense of purpose.

With a lot of effort, discipline, and faith, I achieved something that once seemed too far away: I bought my first property in Brazil.

And now the story takes a new chapter. I came to France, where I will spend a year completing my training in gastronomy — a dream that was born even amid difficulties, but that today is becoming reality.

Today I thank God, the people who crossed my path, and every step taken with courage. I have learned that starting over is not a solitary act. When we have support, true connections, and opportunities, the future can open in ways we never imagined.

And best of all is knowing that this story is only just beginning.