I am in my final year at the University of Toronto, completing a double major in international relations and peace, conflict and justice studies. I was born in Ecuador, parents are Colombian but since the age of 11 I have lived in Canada.

Growing up in a diverse community, I have learnt to embrace and welcome diversity at its fullest, with taking up an interest in learning Mandarin in high school [after my trip to China and Hong Kong) and recently Arabic (since my trip to the Middle East this past summer).

I love engaging in interesting conversations about our contemporary world--or why Beyoncé is always slaying our existence.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

As a broke student, travelling is not always feasible, depending on when you want to travel (high peak seasons) or where (some places are ridiculously expensive).

To be honest, the thought of staying at a stranger's place is a bit daunting, but I believe that with any friendship, the first step is always the hardest (i.e. should I approach the person?). I consider myself a trustworthy, considerate and worldly person that is willing to give this experience a go.

Interests

• street art
• chinese food
• watching films
• arabic food

Music, Movies, and Books

I am definitely a Swiftie fan, loved her since her first album 10 years ago! I also enjoy R&B, soulful, classic and pop music.

In the past few years, Canada has certainly exported top-charting singers/songwriters with the likes of Shawn Mendes, Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Drake and most recently Alessia Cara. Definitely support my Canadians!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Sitting on a 23-hour bus ride from Lima to the Amazonas region of Peru. I think having a 30-minute break in between all that sitting, with the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the flatlands, the Lord of the Rings inspired scenery and then our destination--a small town in the middle of nowhere was indeed an experience.

Teach, Learn, Share

As a native spanish speaker, I can definitely teach anyone willing to learn a few words!

I am a listener. I love to offer fruitful advice (to those that request it) and engage in life's most pressing questions. I think we are all trying to navigate our 20s with as much ease as we can, so there's never a dull moment of "YOLO" or "To be or not to be."

I love trying new foods--never do I miss a chance to say "I tried it!" You never know if you like something, unless you try! (Big motto on mine)

What I Can Share with Hosts

A listener, perspectives on life, lots of laughs and cheeriness and most of all a friend.

Countries I’ve Visited

China, Colombia, Ecuador, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Jordan, Mozambique, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Switzerland, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, Ecuador