Virtual Summit Submission

Florida State University
International Affairs

Biography

Born and raised in Doral, Florida—nicknamed “Doralzuela” for its vibrant Venezuelan community—Lucas grew up surrounded by stories of migration and rebuilding. A German-American student with Venezuelan and Colombian heritage, he developed a strong interest in cultural identity and belonging. Now pursuing degrees in Urban Planning and International Affairs and preparing for Honors in the Major, Lucas is fluent in Spanish and German. His visit to Berlin’s Venezuelan community deepened his passion for studying migration, showing him how diaspora members preserve identity while adapting abroad. These experiences continue to inspire his goal of supporting immigrants as they rebuild while maintaining their heritage.

Project

Navigating Identity and Community: Venezuelan Diaspora Experiences in Berlin
My ethnographic study explores how Venezuelan immigrants construct identity and build community in Berlin—a city where stories of migration live on every corner. Through interviews with community leaders and participation in cultural events, I examine how Venezuelans in Berlin balance preserving their heritage with adapting to German life. The research highlights the central role of food, art, and literature in sustaining Venezuelan identity across borders. Cultural practices serve as both anchors to home and bridges to new communities, allowing traditions to evolve without being lost. Berlin’s long history as a migration hub, along with its walkable neighborhoods and abundant green spaces, creates a setting where Venezuelans can maintain traditions while integrating into German society. Parks, plazas, and community centers emerge as natural gathering points where cultural celebrations and informal meetings flourish. Community members revealed that preserving culture is not only about longing for home but also about actively shaping identity. By engaging in community networks, Venezuelans navigate challenges while remaining connected across borders. Weeks of observation showed how they create blended identities, combining traditions from Venezuela with experiences in Germany. This project offers insights for future generations of Venezuelans considering migration to Berlin by documenting vibrant cultural networks and resilience strategies. By sharing these stories, my research provides both hope and guidance for newcomers seeking to preserve culture while building community abroad.