I asked myself why me when I got nominated for the award. Have you heard of impostor syndrome? When you think you’re not good enough or not worth being awarded for your work? Then I remembered my Greek hairdresser in Stavanger who told me a story when her mother-in-law wanted to give her money and she denied. She told me she didn’t think she deserved it. Then her mom taught her a life lesson: “When someone wants to reward you for your work: Smile and say Thank You.” That’s what I did.
It was when I read people’s votes that I understood the transformation I had made in their lives. The help they got from my posts, tips, advice, experience. Then I looked at the title I’ve been given: Best Brazilian Influencer in Europe. The jury also understood that. It was a victory of hard work, love, dedication, consistency, study.
THE GLAMOUR. The awards were held at Eiffel Tower, in Paris, on September 25th 2022. We made history. It was the first Brazilian event in the Eiffel Tower ever. High Profile Magazine, who created the awards, brought glamour and significant professionals in divers areas together. Queen Diambe Kabatusuila of Congo Republic, Luiza Brunet (Brazilian entrepreneur and activist), Fraternity Without Boarders, among others who work for racial equality, combat of domestic violence against women, help African people, inclusion for handicaped people. There was a cocktail and a performances of LGBTQIA+ performers. When Brazilian national hymn was played by violinists, I cried. After that there was the French national hymn also very pretty.
I was nervous, but there was nothing else to do than wait. I had good company sitting next to me: two other finalists who live in Norway. Bruna won for best Brazilian singer and Suellen won for best entrepreneur startup. Then it was my turn. Waiting at the back of the room, facing the stage, I heard my name. As I walked down the red carpet, I saw people I didn’t know clapping and cheering. My acceptance speech was supposed to be formal, but I couldn’t help saying “Oi gente!” (Hi guys). It’s that connection and warmth that keeps me writing and producing content.
As I was saying my speech, the screen behind me displayed my picture and a huge Norwegian flag. And that’s exactly how I feel: both Brazilian and Norwegian. I was proud of representing Brazil as we sang the national song and I was proud to represent Norway with the flag behind me.
What a feeling! It felt like “Good job!” All the busy days and nights writing for you, thinking and planing, recording the videos, editing, taking writing and marketing classes, it all came to my head. I couldn’t stop the tears from falling.
You can watch the video when I got the award here.
Connecting with you reader is the best part. It’s always been. My wish is to contribute, to help you understand the Norwegian society, culture, system and be happy as an immigrant. Make Norway your home.
Thank you so much for your vote, for reading, following, subscribing, buying my book How to avoid Winter Depression, and sharing my content. This award is ours.