Fernando joined Folklore Y Ritmos De Panama in 2017 as a distant thought of learning about dance steps but ended up regaining his heritage and language skills. Fernando’s love for culture is electrifying at this stage of his life. He considers learning his biggest passion, with a nag for using books as a window to the world and a springboard to knowledge. He grew up partly in Panama and Texas, with his biculturalism flaring into all he finds interesting. Fernando has taken a roundabout way to his new dance calling, initially a lead guitarist for a heavy metal band. That led to more experiential curiosities that took off through participation in extreme sports, skateboarding, and BMX biking. His free spirit led to trekking places like the rain forest of Nicaragua and Machu Picchu in Peru, and more recently, the French-Italian Riviera, where he had the opportunity to join the dance group in its first international invitational performance. Joining Folklore Y Ritmos De Panama has been a journey of reconnecting with self, meeting others, and learning dances and costumes that relate to his identity. In return, he leaves his own mark on the group, using his technology and social media expertise to share his love for the culture through YouTube – Panama en Austin, Instagram @panamaenaustin, Twitter @panamaenaustin, and  Facebook – Folklore Y Ritmos De Panama.