April Fourth Friday – Discover Uruguay with Eduardo “Ed” Brussa

April Fourth Friday Took Guests on a Journey to Uruguay with Eduardo “Ed” Brussa

The Valparaiso International Center’s April 2026 Fourth Friday Speaker Series welcomed guests for an engaging evening of culture, storytelling, music, and personal reflection with featured speaker Eduardo “Ed” Brussa.

Held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, the event invited attendees to experience Uruguay through Ed’s personal journey from Montevideo to Northwest Indiana.

Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, Ed grew up surrounded by creativity and intellectual curiosity. Influenced by his father, author and dendrologist Antonio Brussa, and his grandmother, opera singer and pianist Norma Elizondo, he developed an early appreciation for both the sciences and the arts. During the presentation, Ed reflected on how those influences shaped his lifelong passion for music, education, and creative expression.

After relocating to the United States, Ed pursued studies in Music Business and Secondary Education, eventually building a career that blends teaching, multimedia production, and music. Audience members enjoyed hearing about his work as a Spanish teacher at Portage High School, his multimedia company Liminal Media, and his musical collaborations through the electronic duo LaFinka.

More than a professional biography, however, the evening became a thoughtful conversation about identity, belonging, and the experience of living between cultures. Ed shared personal stories about adapting to life in the United States while maintaining strong ties to his Uruguayan heritage.

Attendees also learned more about Uruguay itself — its culture, people, and traditions — through Ed’s reflections on growing up in Montevideo and the ways music and creativity continue to connect him to his roots.

The relaxed and conversational atmosphere made the evening especially memorable, encouraging guests to ask questions, share experiences, and engage in meaningful cultural dialogue.

The Valparaiso International Center thanks Eduardo “Ed” Brussa for sharing his story and extending such a warm introduction to Uruguay and its culture.