Hey there! I'm Rafael — a 30-year-old Brazilian software engineer, born in the vibrant chaos of Rio de Janeiro and currently based in Belo Horizonte. I’m Black (light-skinned), queer, ethically non-monogamous, and endlessly curious about people, places, and possibilities.

My life has always been a mix of contrasts. I grew up in the suburbs of Rio — and just a quick note: in Brazil, "suburbs" aren’t fancy middle-class havens like in the U.S.; they’re where working-class communities thrive, dream big, and dance even bigger. 💃🏾

I’m a Capricorn with a thousand tabs open in my brain — always dreaming up new projects and ideas. One of the things I'm most proud of is co-founding Technogueto, an initiative that teaches coding to young Black folks from the favelas. For me, tech only makes sense when it’s paired with social justice. Inclusion, diversity, and community are not just buzzwords — they’re values I live by.

🌈 Being queer is a central part of who I am. I say this proudly — not to turn Couchsurfing into Tinder (no thanks! 😅) — but because I believe in showing up as my full self, and I’m only interested in connecting with people who are respectful, inclusive, and kind. If you're LGBTQIA+-phobic, racist, misogynistic, or fatphobic… this couch is not for you, darling. 💁🏾‍♂️

I believe family is not always blood. I’m raising a beautiful daughter, Wytoria (she’s 18 now and still teaching me every day), and I share a home with my ex-boyfriend Will — now one of my closest friends. Together, we’ve built a chosen family based on care, affection, and trust. That’s my dream for the world: more families formed by love and intention, not just tradition.

I discovered Couchsurfing during my first trip abroad to Argentina, and it was love at first sight. I didn’t stay with anyone then, but I joined meetups and instantly felt part of something magical. I’ve hosted a few folks in BH and can’t wait to now experience the other side during my first trip to Europe (May 15 – June 26). Let’s share stories, meals, music — or just sit in silence under the same sky, if that’s your vibe.

🧠 What I love:

* Deep conversations (bonus points if we talk psychology, tech, society, or dreams)
* Dancing to Beyoncé or funk carioca like nobody’s watching — unless you are watching, then clap! 😄
* Wandering cities on foot to feel their rhythm
* Hiking trails that end in waterfalls (mandatory, or I’m turning back)
* Laughing over drinks, building safe spaces, imagining better worlds

I might seem a little shy at first, but give it a minute… I’m a talker. Like, “talk your ear off while cooking dinner and discussing the meaning of life” kind of talker. And I’m also — or so they say — a great listener. Exchanging life experiences is one of my absolute favorite things in the world.

Let’s connect — as travelers, as humans, as people trying to make life a little softer and brighter for each other. 💫

P.S.: If you ever pass by Belo Horizonte, feel free to ask for a couch! My house is still open, and Will & Wytoria would love to welcome you too.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I’m on Couchsurfing because I truly believe that the world gets smaller — and warmer — when we share it. For me, traveling isn’t just about seeing new places, it’s about connecting with people, hearing their stories, and creating little moments of magic through kindness and curiosity. As someone just starting to explore beyond my continent, I see Couchsurfing as a beautiful way to build friendships, learn with open hearts, and remind each other that no matter where we’re from, we all belong somewhere — especially around a shared meal, a long conversation, or a cozy couch.

Interests

• arts
• yoga
• technology
• rock music
• lgbt
• pop music
• gastronomy
• roller derby
• polyamory
• gastronomia local
• non-monogamy

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Beyoncé; Avril Lavigne; Lady Gaga; Whitney Houston; The Pretty Reckless.
Books: Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling); Descolonizando Afetos (Geni Núñez); Feliz por Enquanto (Geni Núñez); All About Love (bell hooks); Agatha Christie.
Movies: Scenes from a Marriage; Amélie Poulain; The Others; Life is Beautiful; John Q; The Rocky Horror Picture Show; The Devil Wears Prada; Past Lives; Her; Everything Everywhere All At Once; Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
Anime/Animation: Naruto; Clannad; Demon Slayer; Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Series: Grey’s Anatomy; House of the Dragon; Game of Thrones; Scandal; How to Get Away with Murder; Black-ish.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Definitely adopting my daughter. She’s 18 now, and being a father has been the most beautiful — and most challenging — experience of my life. It’s taught me more about love, patience, and growth than anything else ever could. I’m endlessly proud of her and grateful for the journey we’ve shared.

Teach, Learn, Share

I love talking about pretty much anything — from deep life stuff to the most random topics. I work with technology, so I’m always up for sharing (and learning) tech-related things, but I also have a bunch of hobbies and interests I’d love to explore with others. One thing I’d really enjoy is teaching you how to cook a Brazilian dish — and maybe, in return, you could show me something from your local cuisine? I think sharing food, stories, and skills is one of the best ways to connect.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share a lot with my hosts! From Brazilian culture and stories to cooking a traditional dish — I’d love to teach you how to make a delicious Brazilian meal. I also work in technology, so if you’re into that, we can chat about tech, gadgets, or anything in between. Another fun thing I can share is teaching you how to dance funk carioca — it’s one of my favorite things to do! I’d love to go out with my host and dance, as I’m always up for a good time and a dance party. I’m always open to learning new things too, so if you have a skill or hobby to share, I’m all ears! Most of all, I believe in making meaningful connections and exchanging ideas, whether it’s over a meal, a dance, or a deep conversation.

Countries I’ve Visited

Argentina, Brazil

Countries I’ve Lived In

Brazil