In this episode, I sit down with Gloria Vazquez – a vibrant, passionate, and much-loved figure in the Spanish teaching community here in Aotearoa. Originally from Asturias in the north of Spain, Gloria came to New Zealand in the late 1980s for love and adventure, and ended up building a life and legacy that has touched countless students and fellow educators over the years.
Gloria shares the story of her early days in NZ, when there were hardly any Spanish speakers around and everything felt new and unfamiliar. She talks about the challenges of settling in, finding community, and navigating a completely different culture. all while staying true to her roots. We dive into her journey as a Senior Lecturer at AUT, her love for the Spanish language, and how she’s helped grow its presence in New Zealand. Her passion for teaching and connection shines through every word.
This episode is full of gems, Gloria offers thoughtful, heartfelt advice for anyone starting fresh in a new country, pursuing a teaching career, or just figuring out where they belong. Her story is a reminder that it’s never too late to follow your heart, and that with a bit of courage and a lot of aroha, you really can build a beautiful life across the world.
Hosted by Debbie Ross
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Thanks for listening!
