My name is Lorena. I came into this world on a warm summer afternoon, on January 3, 1994, in Lima, Peru.At the age of 5, my parents decided to divorce, and a year later, my father moved to the United States. For me, that meant a wave of anguish, fear, and a profound sense of loneliness.
During my childhood and adolescence, I attended a French Catholic school known for its strict education. From this period of my life, I cherish the values instilled in me, such as prudence, audacity, and determination, but above all, integrity.
Upon turning 16, I faced a crucial crossroads in my journey: the choice of a university major. I opted for International Relations, drawn to the idea of diplomacy, conflict, mediation, and representing my country in international summits. It seemed like a captivating and thrilling challenge.
During my university studies, I strove to excel and become the best in my class, and with dedication, I achieved it. Attaining the recognition of First Place, with an emphasis on social responsibility.
Not long after completing my university studies, another significant shift unfolded in my life; I relocated to Switzerland. Here, amidst the picturesque landscapes, I found the space to grow, to rediscover myself, and to confront challenges that had long eluded me back in Peru. Learning German, adapting to the culture and traditions—none of it came easy, yet every struggle enriched me profoundly on a personal level.
In Switzerland, I found the time to reconnect with myself. Art overflowed within me; I explored photography, drawing, painting, videography, interior and fashion design, as well as delving into realms of personal growth and psychology.
Commitment
Photography
Photography has been a constant companion since my childhood. I used to love being photographed and would always ask my mom for the camera to capture what I found interesting. Nowadays, I am fascinated by animals, plants, architectural structures, and sunsets.
I consider commitment and responsibility as two inherent pillars within me. Nowadays, the added value lies in doing things at my own pace, while striving to practice patience and understanding with myself.
This award serves as a reminder of my dedication and perseverance, highlighting the values of commitment and responsibility that are intrinsic to who I am. It symbolizes the culmination of my efforts and the satisfaction of achieving a meaningful objective.
.
Textil Design
Sewing has also been a constant presence in my life. My grandmother used to frequent a seamstress, where she could request exactly what she wanted after buying beautiful fabrics and designing them in her mind. I followed suit during my adolescence; skirts and dresses were usually what I commissioned.
In Switzerland, I took a sewing course with a very patient teacher who taught me the basics to start sewing. In the photos below, I showcase two projects: a satin camisole pajama with lace trimmings and a Baguette Bag made from recycled denim that I designed. I added a colorful lining and beautiful fabric flowers with pearls.
Jewellery
Receiving jewelry for a special occasion is common in Peru. Having a trusted jeweler, I've been able to bring my designs to life, with her crafting them into tangible pieces. Additionally, I possess the tools to undertake small projects such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings made from beads and vibrant colors.
Things I love…
-
![]()
Museums
Museums are a place for me to recharge my energy. Among my favorites are art galleries, including the Louvre and the Van Gogh Museum. I also enjoy museums with an anthropological focus. During my school years, I visited various Peruvian museums, learning about the history and culture of my country.
-
![]()
Dancing
Before I learned to walk, I learned to dance. From school recitals and ballet classes to performances in front of my family, I've always loved to dance. My passion extends from salsa, cumbia, merengue, and reggaeton to traditional Peruvian folk music. Dance brings me joy, and currently, I attend a bachata course to further explore this art form.
-
![]()
Painting and Crafting.
I have a mini workshop in my house where I have worked with ceramics, painted canvases, and experimented with watercolors.
Likewise, I took the introductory art course at HSLU, where Professor Roger, with his patience and great sense of humor, explained to me that art requires technique and observation. -
![]()
Make up
I have also taken a makeup course because I enjoy the idea of painting the human face, vibrant eyeshadows, proper skincare, highlighting and contouring, and artistic and editorial makeup are some of the topics I pursued in my makeup course.
-
![]()
Creating experiences and memories.
Inviting people to my house is fulfilling to me. I enjoy seeing people relish delicious food and exchanging stories. I like hosting parties, pampering the people I care about, and creating memories with them.
-
![]()
Travel
I enjoy admiring the architecture of other cities, indulging in local cuisine, wandering through picturesque streets, and observing how people dress and behave in different places.
It makes me reflect on how vast humanity is. -
![]()
Interior Design
I'm really into designing spaces, playing around with colors, textures, and the warmth of light. Lamps, scented candles, and fresh flowers for special moments are my go-to. Creating comfy spaces fuels my creative side.
-
![]()
Reading
I have a strong passion for novels, particularly those by Mario Vargas Llosa and Jaime Bayly. I find joy in delving into the experiences and life perspectives of others through literature. Additionally, I am fascinated by brand development, design, and history, and I enjoy learning about these subjects.
-
![]()
Baking
Since childhood, I've been making desserts; cakes, cookies, and alfajores were among the favorites. I adored watching cooking shows, and my grandma was always there to join me in my culinary adventures.
-
![]()
Chapita
Chapita, a Yorkshire Terrier Biro, entered my life in March 2020. She helped me connect with myself and my spiritual side, becoming my great teacher and life companion.
She's playful and affectionate with all people but reserved and cautious around other dogs. -
![]()
Collages
I enjoy creating collages with different themes, whether it's fashion, my vacations, or any topic that sparks my creativity. I strongly believe in manifestation and like to have everything that inspires and moves me in a single image.
Videography
One of my greatest sources of pride is having created a YouTube channel where I showcased my life here in Switzerland. I played around with shots, angles, effects, transitions, and different perspectives. I was excited to find the perfect musical track for each set of videos. I built a small community that followed my videos every Sunday.
I took a creative break to focus on myself, but I don't rule out picking it up again. Here are some shots from a few videos I made.
My roots
In 2023, my life underwent significant changes, and one thing I cherish from that time is the habit of daily writing, known as journaling. Each morning, I start the day with a cup of coffee and jot down my goals and aspirations.
I consider myself a deeply reflective woman. I strive to understand my family history and its dynamics, but what I'm most focused on is how I want to continue writing my own story.
I seek to appreciate and honor my grandparents, my mother, and my father. I aim to recognize all their virtues and identify some of them within myself, without forgetting those that are intrinsic to me.
My father, Gustavo, is an industrial engineer who has lived in Miami since 2000. He is a good-natured, eloquent, and dreamy man, deeply attached to his family and a gardening enthusiast. He instilled in me a love for romantic music, possesses a great sense of humor, is sensitive, honest, and I can talk to him for hours about any topic.
My mother, Cecilia, is considered by me as an artist who has worked in the healthcare field since a young age. She grew up very independent. Extremely organized and methodical, she is detail-oriented. From her, I learned to appreciate art; I always saw her making candles, chocolates, jewelry, painting, and sewing. She believes in me and always supports me in whatever endeavors I choose to pursue.
My maternal grandparents, Betty and Carlos
My paternal grandparents, Laura and Nato
Mom & Dad
Lima
Miami
Luzern
There are three cities that hold a special place in my heart.
Lima, the coastal and humid capital where I grew up, taught me to love the sea and the singing of birds at dawn. Its resilient and innovative people inspire me. Lima means home, hospitality, and warmth to me.
Miami, my second home, my oasis, where my energy recharges. Surrounded by skyscrapers, palm trees, and turquoise seas, it's a melting pot of diverse cultures, Latin vibes, and music. It fills me with joy.
And lastly, Lucerne, the city that adopted me and helped me mature, teaching me new values like punctuality, order, and recycling. With well-defined seasons, traditions I now partake in, and a respectful and orderly society. I've grown accustomed to the sound of bells and enjoy taking walks amid the beautiful landscapes of lakes and mountains.
This is me
Now, I am a woman who is forging her own path, with freedom and awareness, who wants to express herself because it's her sanctuary. Contributing to society and on a quest to find her purpose in this life.
A woman who dances with confidence because she knows that is her essence.
This is me, a woman who will never forget her inner child. The girl who loves to paint her room over and over again to express her feelings, who enjoys rearranging all the furniture and accessories, and plays as if she's hosting a home design show.
The one who takes photos and dances secretly with her discman because she's shy. The one who sews sequins onto her blouses to give them a new look. And who asks her mom to buy her books, to have something to do during breaks after swimming lessons.