Meet Our Teachers

MARIANA FEITOR - Portuguese Teacher
Yoga, Meditation and Sound Healing Facilitator
Mariana is a passionate educator and guide whose work bridges language, self-awareness, and holistic well-being. A native of Portugal, she has been teaching Portuguese as a non-native language since 2016, working with students from diverse backgrounds in highly personalized and adaptive ways. Her teaching is rooted in genuine connection—helping people not only learn a new language, but also rediscover how they express themselves.
Mariana’s approach is deeply enriched by her long-standing dedication to personal growth and spiritual exploration. She has been a certified instructor of yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and sound healing since 2021—practices that supported her own healing journey and continue to shape her unique teaching style. Her method integrates academic training with lived experience, resulting in a warm, intuitive, and transformational learning environment.
During the retreat, Mariana will lead Portuguese, yoga, and meditation sessions, while also embracing the role of learner herself—guided by the belief that true growth comes through shared experience and mutual learning. Her core values—honesty, kindness, and authenticity—shine through in everything she does.

MAFALDA SANTOS – Portuguese Teacher
Mafalda began her journey as a Portuguese language teacher in 2017 and quickly discovered a deep passion for education that has guided her ever since. With an academic background in Basic Oral Sciences and Communication, she brings a unique and effective approach to language instruction. Her knowledge of the speech apparatus enhances her ability to support accurate pronunciation, while her expertise in communication allows her to adapt lessons to each student’s individual learning style and needs.
Dedicated to creating dynamic and responsive learning environments, Mafalda views each teaching opportunity as a chance to connect more deeply with her students. Her participation in immersive retreats offers a fresh, innovative approach to language learning—engaging with learners in real-time, real-life contexts to provide immediate, personalized support.

FILIPA TEIXEIRA - Portuguese Teacher
Born on the beautiful island of the Azores, Filipa brings a rich blend of psychological insight, life experience, and creativity to her role as a Portuguese tutor. With a background in psychology and psychological coaching, she is deeply committed to creating inclusive, supportive learning spaces where students feel safe, empowered, and free to explore the language. A transformative solo journey around the world inspired her to align more closely with her passion for meaningful connection and cultural exchange—leading her to begin teaching Portuguese to fellow travelers and language enthusiasts.
At the retreat, Filipa’s mission is to support students with practical, hands-on learning grounded in empathy and personal growth—making language acquisition not just effective, but truly transformative.