Colombia Profile!  with Sonia Leviano. 

Sonia Leviano is a Colombian born Australian resident, who has been director of Aires Colombianos a folkloric group for nearly 20 years.

1.   What's the connection between WYD, your country and you?

WYD has been a reason for me to get involved with the Scalabrini Youth Group. Our Parish Priest dedicates his time to working with the Latin-American communities in Sydney and this is how I got involved with WYD.

I am the coordinator of the Scalabrini Youth Group, and through the group, I have had the privilage to meet the delegation from Colombia that will be attending WYD.

2.   How many pilgrims are coming to Sydney from Colombia?
About 1000

3.   What are some of the main Dioceses, cities and groups represented?

The main group represented is from the Colombian Youth Ministry, They are from all over Colombia. There will be two Bishops and two Priests travelling with them. Also, there will be a group from the Universidad Javeriana, as well as a group from the Neocatecumenals and other smaller groups.

4.   Will your country be represented in the 'Papal Plate' WYD Soccer Competition?

Colombia has a good reputation on Soccer, but I am not able to confirm this for you as yet. If we do attend, maybe watch out for the Condor! (Soccer fans will know what I mean).

5.   Is your country having a National Gathering at WYD and if so, when and where is it on?

Yes we are, as we say, 20th July is when WYD begins, therefore because of various reasons, we have organised a gathering on Monday 21st July  at All Saints Parish, Liverpool. The mass will be Celebrated by one of the Bishops from Colombia. The Mass will be animated by the Colombian Pilgrims, and all Colombians living in Sydney are invited.

6.   Are there any migrants from Colombia living in Australia - if so how many?

Yes there are, there are now 2 -3 generations of Colombo- Australians living here. The official records show that about 7-8000 Colombian nationals have migrated to australia.

7.   Any National Foods of interest?

Colombia is well know for its Banana -  raw, fried, cooked, steamed and roasted. As well as its "Empanadas" (colombian meat pies), and one of the world's most delicious coffee.

8.   Any National Past-Times of interest?

Soccer, cycling, tennis, dancing, reading, art, travelling ... dancing. (I mentioned it already, but we do like dancing a lot!)