"I'm Jorge, 35, originally from Lisbon but now living in the vibrant city of São Paulo. My journey as an entrepreneur has been a wild ride, full of ups and downs. I started my first business at 25 after dropping out of university. It failed spectacularly, but that experience taught me resilience and the importance of adaptability. Now, I run a successful tech startup that focuses on developing AI solutions for small businesses. My days are packed with meetings, brainstorming sessions, and endless cups of coffee. The startup life is demanding, and balancing work with personal life is always a challenge. My last relationship ended a few years ago, partly because I was too engrossed in my work. These days, I'm trying to find a better balance, spending more time with friends and family. My parents still live in Lisbon, and I make it a point to visit them a couple of times a year. My sister is a doctor in Barcelona, and we chat regularly, sharing our latest adventures and challenges. São Paulo is a city that never sleeps, and it suits my lifestyle perfectly. I usually start my day with a brisk run in Ibirapuera Park, followed by a hearty breakfast – pão de queijo and a strong espresso are my staples. Lunch is often a quick affair, usually something local like feijoada or a hearty sandwich from a nearby café. I love exploring different cuisines and São Paulo's diverse food scene provides endless opportunities. Work can be intense, but I find joy in small moments – a successful pitch, a breakthrough in a project, or even a quiet evening at home cooking a new recipe. Cooking is my way of unwinding. I enjoy making traditional Portuguese dishes, especially bacalhau à brás, a comforting mix of shredded codfish, onions, and potatoes. It's a taste of home that keeps me grounded. Weekends are my time to recharge. I love visiting local markets, trying out new restaurants, and catching up with friends. We often gather for barbecues, and Brazilian churrasco is something I never tire of. There's something about the smoky, grilled meat that's irresistible. I also enjoy a good caipirinha, the perfect drink to relax with after a busy week. My goal is to expand my startup globally, but I'm also mindful of not losing sight of what's important. I've learned that success isn't just about business achievements; it's about being happy and fulfilled in all aspects of life. Balancing work and personal life is a constant struggle, but it's one I'm committed to mastering. My favorite local dish? It's got to be moqueca, a Brazilian fish stew that's rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It's a dish that brings together the diverse influences of Brazilian cuisine."
