My name is Ingrid Cerqueira da Rocha, born in Osasco and living in Carapicuíba, São Paulo. My background is in Tourism, and with it came a dream: to do an exchange program. I always imagined going to the United States, but God, in His wisdom, guided me down a different path — and what a blessing it was! The “no” I received turned into the greatest adventure of my life.
I started from scratch, with courage and faith. I walked from Carapicuíba to Alphaville to work and save every penny. I fought hard, financed my exchange to Ireland in installments, and went. With a heart full of expectation and fear, I boarded a plane for an unknown country, one that would become part of my home.
In Ireland, I lived two intense years of learning, challenges, and discoveries. I worked as a nanny, house painter, cleaner, event assistant… and I was also a Baptist, spreading the love of God wherever I went. I took a personal development course that transformed me from within — it was more than education, it was healing and rebirth.
I traveled to over six countries, discovering cultures, languages, and incredible people. I volunteered with homeless people at the Lighthouse, and that marked my soul forever. Serving others made me see the beauty in the small things, and I am grateful for every smile and hug I shared.
God used people like angels during this journey. I want to thank the two Irish families who opened their doors and their hearts to me. I will never forget the hospitality, affection, and welcome. You were shelter and family far from home.
I thank every friend I made, from different countries, who became brothers and sisters on the road. And especially James, who was by my side during the moments when homesickness for Brazil squeezed my heart — your support was a light.
Today, my heart is divided between two homes: Brazil, where I was born, and Ireland, where I was reborn. Thank you, Ireland, for teaching me so much, for embracing me, for allowing me to plant seeds of God’s love in your land. Every street, every day of work, every tear and smile — it was all part of God’s purpose in my life.
May this story continue to inspire others to dream, to fight, and to trust that God always writes the best paths, even when they seem different from our plans.
With love and gratitude,
Ingrid Cerqueira da Rocha
