Ainura was born in Central Asia, spent over a decade in Malaysia, and studied at an Australian university before settling in São Paulo, where she’s now raising her family. Her life blends cultures and perspectives, something that naturally shapes her writing. When she’s not working, she’s usually trying new recipes while binging true crime shows, soaking up sunny Brazilian days at the park or beach, or crafting something with her hands.
I live for calm, not because my schedule is gentle, but because our days are full. We’re two working parents in São Paulo with a toddler who loves to rearrange Tupperware while I try to cook. Some days flow. Others feel like I’m chasing the clock. When the latter happens, it’s ...Read More
I used to worry that I was awkward at small talk. At dinner parties in São Paulo, I’d rather refill the pão de queijo plate than keep the conversation rolling about traffic or the weather. On our weekly date nights, I’m great with Matias because we dive deep fast, but ...Read More
We don’t talk about our struggles at the same volume we talk about our wins. Especially when people see us as the “capable one.” I write this as someone who loves a color-coded calendar, a crisp to-do list, and an evening routine that hums along like a well-oiled kitchen. My days ...Read More
I used to think a good life was built in big leaps. New city, big job, new identity. Turns out, it’s usually built in the early morning, when no one is clapping and the only audience is your coffee mug. I live in Brazil with my husband and our toddler, ...Read More
There’s a moment I keep catching in my own day. I’m standing at our kitchen, mentally juggling deadlines, fresh groceries, the baby’s bath, and a text thread about Saturday dinner plans. I hear myself sigh and say, “I’ll just squeeze it in.” That tiny sentence is my red flag. If ...Read More
We’re all juggling a lot. Work, family, health, a home that somehow generates endless laundry. In this season of my life in São Paulo, I’ve learned that small, repeatable actions are the guardrails that keep me from sliding into overwhelm. They are the simple choices that create space for energy, ...Read More