It seems we had been waiting for it for ages, since the first one we had last June at the splendid Jardins les Marais Hôtel, which felt really good and was the talk of town for a while. It was so pleasant to gather once again, after the summer break and after a busy September rentrée, for a relaxing evening with other young corporate fellas. The Clasico Argentino restaurant, nestled in the Passage des Panoramas, hosted us for this September 30th networking event. And just in case you didn’t know, the Passage des Panoramas, located in the 2nd arrondissement, is the oldest of the covered passages of Paris and a hidden tourist attraction for the real connoisseurs!

It bustles with restaurants, shops and sidewalk cafés of which the Clasico Argentino, chosen by BLOF, in line with the Latino theme of the social evening. So why the Latino-themed Afterwork event this time? Well, because BLOF prides itself with the excitement of doing things differently and innovatively, but more importantly because it is part of BLOF’s objective to broaden the horizon and empower its members in their professional spheres by introducing them to other values and cultures.

Thus, after our dynamic and fresh graduate Trecy returned from her study-abroad programme in Buenos Aires, we thought it a perfect opportunity to learn more about Argentina by having her recount her expedition in the most appropriate setting. Mission accomplished! All elements needed for a good evening were united as Lady Trecy took the group on an imaginative traveler’s tour and Cristian Pereira, our host, treated us to typical drinks like the sweetened non-alcoholic latino cocktail Caipirinha, (pronounced: “Ky/pee/ree/nyah”!) and Mate, an infusion made of Yerba Mate leaves, apparently a national obsession. Watch out for Trecy’s video presentation here soon.

Participants chatted away all evening as they also savoured some delicious varieties of Empanadas (traditional Argentinean stuffed pastries) and helados (Argentinean ice-cream), with some sweet Latino folklore music playing at the background. But coming to think of it … these Empanadas … are they not the same as the meat-pies from Ghana? Now, the question is, who copied (or stole?) the recipe from who? Hmmm… Anyways… we had another great meet-and-mingle evening, graced with the presence of young, vibrant graduates and professionals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, working in different fields and sectors. It was very enriching and productive! And like Maya Angelou rightly said “…in diversity there is beauty and there is strength.” A big thank you to Señor Pereira and his staff for their warm welcome!

We especially appreciated his contribution, describing the food and drinks he presented, throwing more light on Argentina; and also for allowing us to stay beyond the initial time agreed upon. Argentinean hospitality at its best! Gracias amigo! TGIF! But not only because it’s Friday, but more so for the last day of a hectic month crowned with a great networking event! To Him be all the glory! We very much look forward to the next Afterwork soon! So, ¡hasta pronto amigos!

Bloquefapim