Born in New York and raised in Paraguay, creative DJ and producer Tiffy Vera (29) recently returned to Paraguay to reconnect with her roots. On this occasion, she was accompanied by her partner, former professional footballer Kieran Gibbs, making the visit a very meaningful shared experience.
For Tiffy, introducing Kieran to the country that shaped her early life, and ultimately, her identity, was both important and deeply emotional, she shares with The Asunción Times. While in Paraguay, the couple enjoyed the country’s culture, food, and atmosphere. Beyond these experiences, they also visited an indigenous community, sharing their time, attention, and care during the holiday season.
A strong Paraguayan identity
Tiffy grew up in Paraguay until she was twenty-one years old. Because of this, she confirms that her identity was formed in the middle of South America. Although she now lives in Miami, she is proud to share that her heart remains deeply connected to Paraguay.
“My Paraguayan roots shaped everything about me, my values, my work ethic, my humility, and my way of loving people. Paraguay teaches you to be grateful and to give even when you do not have much. That inspires the way I treat my team, my supporters, and how I show up professionally.”
Tiffy and her creative path
Tiffy is a DJ, producer, and founder of the record label RTA Sounds. She is currently based in Miami, where she creates house music with a groovy, emotional touch. Her art is about building community through music and connecting people through shared spaces of interest.
“Right now, I am in a stage of my life where I’m focused on growing as an artist while also staying grounded: remembering where I come from and why I do what I do. Music is my expression, but helping others is what gives my life purpose.”
At 21, Tiffy moved to Miami, navigating several jobs as she searched for her true path. During COVID, when everything slowed down, she realised that her love for music could turn into a career, something she had never considered a real possibility.
“I started DJing just for fun at home, and little by little it became something way bigger. People started to connect with what I was doing, and doors began to open. That is how the journey started, from something that felt like a hobby, to discovering my purpose.”
Visiting Paraguay together
Bringing Kieran to Paraguay with her this time was full of emotion; it meant opening the doors to the world that made her who she is today.
“I wanted him to see the world that shaped me, not just hear about it. I wanted him to meet my family, feel the warmth of our people, and understand why giving back means so much to me.”
As a recognised former football player of Arsenal, Norwich City, West Bromwich Albion, and Inter Miami, Kieran was naturally surrounded by fans who shared his passion for the sport. However, during his visit to Paraguay, he arrived not as a famous football figure, but as a person with an open heart. This allowed him to experience the true essence of the Paraguayan people.
“Kieran arrived simply as ‘Kieran,’ not as ‘the famous player,’ and I think that is why people received him so beautifully. We even watched a match with the Paraguay Arsenal fan base, and seeing how everyone welcomed him with such warmth and respect really moved him. It was emotional to witness, because it showed him the heart of Paraguay: humble, generous, and always ready to make someone feel at home.”
“Coming home to my soul.”
Having grown up in Paraguay and now living abroad, Tiffy often feels nostalgic about returning home.
“Returning to Paraguay always feels like coming home to my soul. There are always funny or sweet moments, like Kieran trying to speak Guaraní or not understanding why we give two kisses. But beyond that, it is healing. It reminds me of who I was before the world told me who I should be.”
Coming to Paraguay was intentional, as Tiffy planned to introduce Kieran to her grandparents and show him the places from her childhood. Between the food, the music, and the simplicity of the country, the trip became special for Kieran as well.
“I think what he enjoyed most was the sense of community, how people treat you like family even if they just met you. And the way we just get together any day to have asado. He also loved vori vori and pretty much all of our traditional foods.”
Giving back to the community
Beyond returning home, visiting family, and enjoying Paraguay, the couple also focused on supporting the community. For both Tiffy and Kieran, giving back is a driving force in their lives, something they deeply connect with. While in Paraguay, the couple visited an indigenous community near Horqueta. The idea was to dedicate time to the children and bring them laughter, gifts, and care.
“It was an initiative from the heart. My family and I have always helped when we can. It was not planned for publicity; it was just a personal responsibility. Bringing toys and food does not fix everything, but it reminds these kids that they matter, that someone sees them.”
Future plans for Tiffy in Paraguay
Although they have now returned to their international lives, Tiffy and Kieran plan to come back to Paraguay in the future. The goal remains the same: to give back and support those in need. With their powerful platforms, both hope to create opportunities and provide support while continuing to pursue their own passions, music and football.
“We absolutely see ourselves returning to Paraguay. We are currently dreaming and planning to build a foundation here one day, something that helps single mothers, abused women, and their children. A space for emotional support and job training, and a space for kids to learn.”
To see more of Tiffy and Kieran’s works, follow Tiffy Vera and Kieran Gibbs on Instagram.
