Paula is a Trailblazer, Argentine biologist and researcher. She’s participated in two Antarctic campaigns in her research, and is currently in the ocean of Brazil to study whales. Follow along her adventure and support her mission to get more women outdoors and in natural science!
I’m writing to you from Espírito Santo, Brazil, and to be completely honest, my first few days here were so much harder than I ever imagined.
Arriving here meant diving into a journey full of uncertainty. Despite all my years of studying, facing a completely new language made everything difficult—even something as simple as ordering a sandwich.
Basic tasks became complicated, and in those moments of deep frustration, far away from my family and friends, I found myself questioning everything: What did I do? Why did I leave all my comfort and everything I knew behind?
There was no turning back. But I’ve always believed that there are some things in life that are truly worth being uncomfortable for, and that feeling fear is just a reason to cross through it and keep going.
The answer to my doubts came from the hands of those who always save us: other women.
When I met the girls at work, they were so beautiful and incredible; they opened their arms to me in a way that made me feel like I wasn’t alone anymore. It is always women who open their arms like that, making you feel accompanied right when you need it most.
A wave of pure happiness washed over me knowing they would be by my side on this path. That beautiful energy multiplied during our first environmental action: a massive beach cleanup alongside different organizations and many young volunteers. Before we even started working, we all joined in a massive collective hug. The spirit of the community, their songs, and their laughter completely took over me, reminding me exactly why I am here.
To reach the island where we were working, we literally had to learn how to row in unison because coordination is everything in a traditional canoa bahiana. Once we landed, we shared a café da manhã (breakfast), and the local youth, with such curious and kind spirits, explained what everything was while I tried all the food.
We worked hard as a team and removed so much trash, putting it back where it belongs and taking it away from that incredibly beautiful paradise. We found gorgeous seashells and left them right there on the shore. To top it all off, we ended the day swimming together in the middle of the sea. Floating out there, I felt a deep happiness and truly felt like we were all beating with a single heart.
Going through those moments—and even days—of discomfort without trying to avoid them is an essential and necessary part of life.
You have to feel the fear, but do it anyway. Move forward. I truly hope that my story and these photos can inspire any of you who might be hesitating over a big decision right now.
Soon, I’ll be sharing much more about our boat trips and the humpback whales! Until then, please help me share this link to boost my fundraiser campaign for The Cairn Project. Every single share and donation helps us reach more people, providing young girls and women with the access and support they need to thrive outdoors. Muito obrigada!
Support Paula’s Adventure Fundraiser
