 The Bolivian Flag
Gabriel Fernando Arias, 21, was born in Cochabamba, Bolivia
but moved to Australia a few years ago.
He is the Team Leader
of the Scalabrini Youth Group who will host a Spanish Catechesis at the
Opera House.
This is his first WYD and "Its really really exciting!!!" he says.
1. What's the connection between WYD, Bolivia and you?
This is my first WYD as i said before, I'm part of the Scalabrini Youth
Day which has people from different parts of South America and there is
a few Young Bolivians there too, My cousins in Bolivia have also been helping all the way from Bolivia
in the organizing of the Catechesis, giving me more ideas and
suggestions so I guess there is some kind of connection going on there.
2. How many pilgrims are coming to Sydney from Bolivia?
I do know officially there is 250 pilgrims coming to Australia from various parts of Bolivia, Not many but its better than nothing, i already met 6 pilgrims in the past week from Bolivia.
3. What are some of the main Dioceses, cities and groups represented?
They represent various Youth Groups that I'm not aware of unfortunately and most of them are from Santa Cruz and Cochabamba.
4. Will your country be represented in the 'Papal Plate' WYD Soccer Competition?
I don't know yet, because I didn't know [there was one], if I knew I would definetely organize a team. I don't know if other pilgrims have registered for
the comp, but hopefully my country will be represented.
5. Is your country having a National Gathering at WYD and if so, when and where is it on?
I dont know really, maybe. I hear the Bolivian Council will be organizing a dinner for all pilgrims present.
6. Are there any migrants from YOUR COUNTRY living in Australia - if so how many?
Not many but there are about 1000 Bolivians.
7. Any National Foods of interest?
There are so many to name but I will name a few: Sopa de Mani, Fricase,
Chicharron, Pique de Macho, Majadito, Picante de Pollo, Silpancho,
Puchero, Sopa de Chairo, Aji de Fideo.
8. Any National Past-Times of interest?
Fútbol but its called Soccer in Australia. Bolivian Florklore eg: songs, dances.
9. Describe your country in 3 words?
Culture, humbleness, natural
Image courtesy of www.steveconover.info (Creative Commons License), Flickr.
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