'I could feel more like myself here.'

👨Vinícius Vieira
​🌍 From Brazil
​📣 Student International Communication and Media

It was for love that Vinícius Vieira (33), born and raised in Brazil, came to Belgium, first as a tourist, then to stay. Because 'here I could feel more like myself', he says. And that also applies to the university college where he is now studying International Communication and Media.

'I felt at ease here immediately', Vinícius smiles. 'Everyone is friendly and helpful, the teachers are easy to reach, and the environment is rather casual, I love it.'

'Yes, my personal reason to come here was love (laughs). My partner is from here. At first, I had the chance to come to Belgium as a tourist, and I realized Belgium is a safer place and I could feel more like myself here. Combining this aspect with a higher education degree seemed like the right move to make. So I looked for international courses taught in English. I have a background in English tutoring back in Brazil, so International Communication and Media felt like the next level for my professional career, broadening my language skills and my creative side.'

Staying in Belgium

Now Vinícius is working hard to build up his life here.

'That is the plan! The plan is to find a job after my internship and stay here. I am doing my internship at the Flanders Literature Organisation. They mostly communicate in Dutch, promoting and facilitating the publishing of Flemish authors and illustrators, but currently, they have a European-wide project, Every Story Matters, that aims to bring more diversity and inclusivity in the literary sector.'

(Read more under the photo)

'I chose the Public and Corporate Affairs track because I see myself using my communication skills in an organisation. I want to help change the world a little bit, by helping people or a cause, especially if it is in the LGBTQAI+ environment. I would be extra passionate about it (smiles).'

🧡 Came to Belgium primarily for love
​🎓 ​ Is 33 years old, but feels much younger and totally at ease amongst the students of the International Media and Communication programme.
​🌈 Wants to help change the world, by working in an (LGBTQIA+) organization.