Alexandra Guinand '26 presents Venezuela at First Global Insights

Global Insights returns for fall semester with the 11th year of programming! Alexandra Guinand '26, exchange student from the Catholic University of Andrés Bello, marketing major, will present "Venezuela" at the first fall Global Insights event on Wednesday, September 17 beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509.

All students, staff and faculty are invited to the free lunch and learn program. Cultural cuisine will be provided. Registration is required.

Guinand shared some experiences and photos of her Venezuelan home with Global Insights.

What is an interesting fact about Venezuela that you will discuss in your presentation?

Venezuela is known for its beautiful variety of landscapes, from Caribbean beaches to snowy mountain peaks, vast plains, and lush jungles. But did you know that hidden among these landscapes is a place so breathtaking and unique that a Disney Pixar movie was inspired by it? I won't spoil which one just yet, but I'll say this: it's a destination every single Venezuelan dreams of visiting at least once in their life.

What is your favorite activity in Venezuela?

Going to baseball games with my friends and family. Baseball is such an important part of Venezuelan culture, and every single game is full of passion and energy, not just from the players, but from the crowd, too. I especially miss the band that my team, Los Tiburones de La Guaira, brings to every game. They play tambores (we call it the samba) and it completely lifts the atmosphere, making the whole stadium feel alive.

What do you miss/enjoy most about being in Venezuela?

Of course, apart from obviously missing the people, my family and friends, one thing I've noticed deeply is the weather, especially the weather in my city, Caracas. It's the perfect weather all 365 days of the year, like an eternal spring. It's sunny all year long, never too hot, never too cold, and not humid at all. And the best part is, no matter what time of the year it is, you can always just take a short trip to the beach and enjoy.

Where is your favorite place to visit?

My favorite place to visit is Isla Margarita, a little island located in the Caribbean. Honestly, if you haven't been to Margarita, you're not a proper Venezuelan. It has some of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen in my life, and beyond that, it actually holds important history, too. And, oh my God, the food. I could eat empanadas from Margarita for weeks and never get tired of them.

What values or traditions do you feel shape both the culture and people?

Venezuelans are, I believe, the most perseverant and hopeful people in the world, basically indestructible. No matter what situations you put us in, we'll always find a way to make it through. At the same time, we're filled with a kind of chaotic joy; we're loud, expressive, and full of energy, and that spirit is beautifully represented in our culture, from our music and dances to the way we celebrate even the smallest things in life.

Register for Global Insights Venezuela Sep.17

This program is sponsored by The Office of Global Education and co-hosted with the Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX, the Cultural Centers and Office of Residence Life.

For more information, please contact [email protected] or 570-941-4841.