This past month, I had the incredible opportunity to live and volunteer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as a social media videographer and photographer. My work took me to Pura Vida Hostel, tucked at the foot of a favela, where I was tasked with capturing the spirit of the hostel, its people, and the vibrant city around it. But what I gained went far beyond content creation—it was a cultural immersion I’ll never forget.
At Pura Vida, I found more than a workplace. I met travelers from every corner of the globe—each with stories, songs, and perspectives to share. Mornings were filled with the scent of fresh pão de queijo and afternoons spent documenting the heartbeat of Rio’s streets: from bustling Copacabana beaches to quiet alleyways echoing with samba rhythms.
Living at the edge of a favela came with its realities. Safety was a daily concern, and in some places, I wasn’t allowed to photograph or film. At first, that felt limiting. But in hindsight, it was humbling. I got to experience life unfiltered—not through a lens, but through connection. Favelas operate on their own rhythm, their own rules, but what stood out to me most was the deep sense of community and resilience. These were neighborhoods built not just on bricks, but on mutual support, creativity, and an unshakable will to thrive.
Though I couldn’t capture every moment with my camera, the real story unfolded in the in-betweens—over shared meals, spontaneous conversations, and silent observations. It was in those moments I learned that sometimes the most powerful memories are the ones you can’t post online.
Volunteering in Rio was more than a creative project—it was a lesson in perspective, empathy, and the power of storytelling. I return home with full memory cards, a fuller heart, and a renewed respect for the richness that exists in every corner of the world—especially the ones we’re taught to overlook.
Until next adventure,
Karen