People from every corner of the globe are drawn to Asunción, where Paraguay’s laid-back capital has quietly become a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and ambition. Each Tuesday evening from 18:00 to 21:00, digital nomads, expats, and friendly locals come together at the ever-popular English networking event organised by The Asunción Times. Held in a different charming bar or restaurant across the city every week, these gatherings offer the perfect blend of Paraguayan warmth and international energy. In this People of Asunción series, we introduce the inspiring individuals who make this scene so uniquely alive. In #13, Lana Pedro from Brazil.
Meet Lana Pedro
Lana Pedro (28) is from Sao Paulo, Brazil. She is an online entrepreneur developing her own business, after working for a startup company.
Why Paraguay?
“In here, I see I can build my dreams as an entrepreneur. I feel like the government here wants you to feel successful and I also can see myself being successful here and helping others. I want to give back to the community as well when I have the chance”.
What is your favourite place in Asunción?
“Depends on what. I train in Jiujitsu MMA all over the world, so I am always at a gym. There is a great gym in Villamorra. To have fun, there is this place that plays rock music downtown that I love. And to meet new people, wherever The Asuncion Times events are”.
What do you love most about Paraguay?
“The people, for sure. Like, I heard people say that the best part of Paraguay is Paraguayans. And I was like, they were just saying that. But now I really feel that the world has something to learn about Paraguayans. I met Camila from Asunción and her friends, and we went out, and they were the best people ever. I train only with Paraguayans, and the teachers are very patient; everyone is so patient. They help me, invite me to eat and to go out, and I feel that I am part of the community. It does not matter where you are from; what matters is being comfortable. And I feel comfortable here”.
What do you miss from home?
“Food. I love the wide variety of fruits and vegetables from Brazil, hence I am a salad lover. Salad is a big thing for me, so I miss that. Which is not the end of the world, it is just a small thing, so I am okay with that.”
If you were to move away tomorrow, what would you absolutely take with you from Paraguay?
“First, the concept of freedom. I feel like Paraguay is a place that stimulates freedom in so many ways. But I feel like the general society and the government believe in freedom. That is why the entrepreneurship, the creativity, and the space for development are big here. We need more creativity and freedom to be who we are. The more pragmatic answer would definitely be Paraguayans, at least one or two friends. If I could”.
You can find Lana Pedro on Instagram or, better yet, bump into her in person at one of The Asunción Times English Networking events – every Tuesday from 18:00 to 21:00, popping up in a different lively bar or restaurant across Asunción! Check our What’s On Guide to discover exactly where the next one is taking place.
