Today, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Roman, a 36-year-old Peruvian with Croatian ancestry, whose journey to reconnect with his roots began in 2006. Now married to a Croatian, Roman’s story is a testament to perseverance, cultural curiosity, and the power of language in bridging identities.
Throughout our conversation, Roman shared his experiences—how the Croaticum scolarship program and government incentives through Croatian Heritage Foundantion (Matica Hrvatska) helped him integrate into Croatian society, the challenges he faced learning a completely new language, and how his connection to Croatia has shaped his identity. From cultural differences to unexpected similarities between Peru and Croatia, Roman’s reflections offer a heartfelt and relatable narrative for descendants looking to rediscover their heritage.
Roman, can you introduce yourself and say something about yourself for OLS?
My name is Roman Božidar Binder Carrizales, I’m 36 years old, I was born in Peru, but I have Croatian roots.
How would you describe your experience living in Croatia as a Croatian descendant?
Honestly, it’s been a very good experience. When I arrived in Croatia in 2006, the government had an incentive program for Croatian descendants called Croaticum, a state-funded scholarship allowing us, the children of Croatians, to learn the language. There were also other benefits such as the Studentski Dom (student housing) and the iksica card, which allowed us to get meals at any university. The government even invited me to enlist in the army and complete military training, but at the time, I didn’t know the language well, so I had to decline the offer. In summary, I can say that there are many opportunities for descendants—you just need determination to achieve them.
What cultural differences have you noticed between Croatia and Peru?
Culturally, there aren’t many differences because both Croatia and Peru are Catholic countries, which made adaptation easy. Croatians are also open to learning about new cultures, and South American culture is very well regarded here.
However, in terms of mindset, there are some differences. For example, Spanish-speaking people tend to be more impulsive in certain situations, while Croatians are not.
What surprised you most when you arrived in Croatia?
The climate surprised me a lot because when I arrived, it was very cold- something you don’t see very often in South America.
Another thing that surprised me was the habit of sitting in coffee bars and spending hours talking, even during work hours. I found this very interesting in a positive way because it showed me how much Croatians value social life, which I agree with, and over time, it became a habit for me too.
What motivated you to learn Croatian?
I really enjoy learning languages, traveling, and exploring new cultures, so I found it interesting to learn the language since I’ve lived here for so long. But the main reason at the beginning was my father, as I wanted to know more about this part of my family, my roots, and my father’s life before he migrated to Peru.
What were the biggest challenges in learning the Croatian language?
Croatian is completely different from Spanish. Initially, it was a bit tedious, especially the grammar and declensions. I was worried about making mistakes, which was normal because it’s not my native language. But over time, it became easier as I started working and studying simultaneously.
Is there a Croatian word or expression that you find especially interesting or difficult to translate?
Yes, there are things that can’t be translated exactly from Spanish to Croatian because the meaning of words changes depending on the context. For example, expressing your emotional state or trying to explain something accurately can be complicated because, in Spanish, it can be interpreted in many ways, whereas in Croatian, you must be exact to be understood.
How do you think learning Croatian has influenced your connection to Croatian culture?
It has influenced me positively and significantly. Now it’s much easier to relate to many things and people, whether personal, professional, or emotional. I believe that after living here for so long and experiencing so much, I’ve realized that we’re all human beings, and language shouldn’t be a barrier to showing who we really are.
Do you have a strategy or special method for practicing Croatian daily?
Yes, I love music, so I have some Croatian songs on my phone, which makes it easier to practice the language by listening to them. Work also helps me a lot because we only speak Croatian, and that’s essential since it pushes me to keep my level optimal.
What role do other languages, like Spanish or English, play in your daily life in Croatia?
They play a very important role. For example, my wife and I speak a lot in Spanish because she’s been learning it for a long time, but we also use Croatian at home because she’s Croatian. This mix is beneficial for both of us. English also plays a big role, especially in work-related matters.
What are your thoughts on the OLS platform, and what do you like about it?
I think OLS is a great project- a platform or tool that can be used in many beneficial ways. In this case, it’s a great contribution to showcasing how descendants adapt to other countries and can serve as an example for future generations.
What differences do you notice between social interactions in Croatia and Peru?
The interactions have been mostly positive because, in many cases, we have similar mindsets. Of course, not everyone thinks alike, but that’s normal- we can’t always agree on everything. Overall, it’s been a very good experience.
Peru is well-known for its gastronomy. How would you compare Croatian and Peruvian food? Do you have a favorite dish in Croatia?
Peruvian gastronomy is undoubtedly one of the best in the world. However, Croatian food is not far behind. There are many excellent dishes like sarma, fish paprikaš, gulaš, and others that I really like. Personally, I love meat, so roštilj(grilled meat) is the best thing I’ve tried.
What cultural similarities do you find between the two countries?
A good example is football- we both love this sport. In Peru, people know many Croatian players and sympathize with them.
Do you feel that living in Croatia has changed your perception of your Croatian identity?
Yes, it has greatly changed my perception of things in general. It’s always good to hear different opinions and perspectives, and this has helped me see life differently than I did at the beginning.
How would you describe Croatian culture to someone who doesn’t know it?
I would say that Croatia and its culture are very interesting, and I’d encourage them to give it a chance- you won’t regret it. I adapted easily.
Do you think languages are essential for understanding a culture? Why?
Yes, definitely, because knowing languages opens many doors, especially in the professional field.
Would you like to learn any other language besides those you already speak?
Yes! I’d love to learn Japanese because Peru has a strong Japanese influence, and I have great affection for that country since, during my childhood, many of my friends were children of Japanese descendants. I’d also like to learn German, Italian, French, and even Icelandic- they all seem very interesting to me.
What did you find easiest when integrating into Croatian society?
Socializing with people and interacting with others. Many years of working in tourism helped me develop a great tool for integrating into Croatian society.
What does having Croatian roots mean to you?
It means a lot to me- learning more about my father’s family, my identity, my ancestors’ history, and the legacy I can pass on to future generations.
What advice would you give to other Croatian descendants abroad who want to learn the language or connect with their heritage?
I would suggest they learn more about their roots, give the country a chance, and connect with it. As a first-generation descendant, connecting with Croatia has been one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve had. I hope they can have the same positive experiences I’ve had while living here.
Thank you for following Roman’s journey! We’d be delighted to hear your feedback or anything you'd like to share- feel free to leave a comment below.
Throughout our conversation, Roman shared his experiences—how the Croaticum scolarship program and government incentives through Croatian Heritage Foundantion (Matica Hrvatska) helped him integrate into Croatian society, the challenges he faced learning a completely new language, and how his connection to Croatia has shaped his identity. From cultural differences to unexpected similarities between Peru and Croatia, Roman’s reflections offer a heartfelt and relatable narrative for descendants looking to rediscover their heritage.
Roman, can you introduce yourself and say something about yourself for OLS?
My name is Roman Božidar Binder Carrizales, I’m 36 years old, I was born in Peru, but I have Croatian roots.
How would you describe your experience living in Croatia as a Croatian descendant?
Honestly, it’s been a very good experience. When I arrived in Croatia in 2006, the government had an incentive program for Croatian descendants called Croaticum, a state-funded scholarship allowing us, the children of Croatians, to learn the language. There were also other benefits such as the Studentski Dom (student housing) and the iksica card, which allowed us to get meals at any university. The government even invited me to enlist in the army and complete military training, but at the time, I didn’t know the language well, so I had to decline the offer. In summary, I can say that there are many opportunities for descendants—you just need determination to achieve them.
What cultural differences have you noticed between Croatia and Peru?
Culturally, there aren’t many differences because both Croatia and Peru are Catholic countries, which made adaptation easy. Croatians are also open to learning about new cultures, and South American culture is very well regarded here.
However, in terms of mindset, there are some differences. For example, Spanish-speaking people tend to be more impulsive in certain situations, while Croatians are not.
What surprised you most when you arrived in Croatia?
The climate surprised me a lot because when I arrived, it was very cold- something you don’t see very often in South America.
Another thing that surprised me was the habit of sitting in coffee bars and spending hours talking, even during work hours. I found this very interesting in a positive way because it showed me how much Croatians value social life, which I agree with, and over time, it became a habit for me too.
What motivated you to learn Croatian?
I really enjoy learning languages, traveling, and exploring new cultures, so I found it interesting to learn the language since I’ve lived here for so long. But the main reason at the beginning was my father, as I wanted to know more about this part of my family, my roots, and my father’s life before he migrated to Peru.
What were the biggest challenges in learning the Croatian language?
Croatian is completely different from Spanish. Initially, it was a bit tedious, especially the grammar and declensions. I was worried about making mistakes, which was normal because it’s not my native language. But over time, it became easier as I started working and studying simultaneously.
Is there a Croatian word or expression that you find especially interesting or difficult to translate?
Yes, there are things that can’t be translated exactly from Spanish to Croatian because the meaning of words changes depending on the context. For example, expressing your emotional state or trying to explain something accurately can be complicated because, in Spanish, it can be interpreted in many ways, whereas in Croatian, you must be exact to be understood.
How do you think learning Croatian has influenced your connection to Croatian culture?
It has influenced me positively and significantly. Now it’s much easier to relate to many things and people, whether personal, professional, or emotional. I believe that after living here for so long and experiencing so much, I’ve realized that we’re all human beings, and language shouldn’t be a barrier to showing who we really are.
Do you have a strategy or special method for practicing Croatian daily?
Yes, I love music, so I have some Croatian songs on my phone, which makes it easier to practice the language by listening to them. Work also helps me a lot because we only speak Croatian, and that’s essential since it pushes me to keep my level optimal.
What role do other languages, like Spanish or English, play in your daily life in Croatia?
They play a very important role. For example, my wife and I speak a lot in Spanish because she’s been learning it for a long time, but we also use Croatian at home because she’s Croatian. This mix is beneficial for both of us. English also plays a big role, especially in work-related matters.
What are your thoughts on the OLS platform, and what do you like about it?
I think OLS is a great project- a platform or tool that can be used in many beneficial ways. In this case, it’s a great contribution to showcasing how descendants adapt to other countries and can serve as an example for future generations.
What differences do you notice between social interactions in Croatia and Peru?
The interactions have been mostly positive because, in many cases, we have similar mindsets. Of course, not everyone thinks alike, but that’s normal- we can’t always agree on everything. Overall, it’s been a very good experience.
Peru is well-known for its gastronomy. How would you compare Croatian and Peruvian food? Do you have a favorite dish in Croatia?
Peruvian gastronomy is undoubtedly one of the best in the world. However, Croatian food is not far behind. There are many excellent dishes like sarma, fish paprikaš, gulaš, and others that I really like. Personally, I love meat, so roštilj(grilled meat) is the best thing I’ve tried.
What cultural similarities do you find between the two countries?
A good example is football- we both love this sport. In Peru, people know many Croatian players and sympathize with them.
Do you feel that living in Croatia has changed your perception of your Croatian identity?
Yes, it has greatly changed my perception of things in general. It’s always good to hear different opinions and perspectives, and this has helped me see life differently than I did at the beginning.
How would you describe Croatian culture to someone who doesn’t know it?
I would say that Croatia and its culture are very interesting, and I’d encourage them to give it a chance- you won’t regret it. I adapted easily.
Do you think languages are essential for understanding a culture? Why?
Yes, definitely, because knowing languages opens many doors, especially in the professional field.
Would you like to learn any other language besides those you already speak?
Yes! I’d love to learn Japanese because Peru has a strong Japanese influence, and I have great affection for that country since, during my childhood, many of my friends were children of Japanese descendants. I’d also like to learn German, Italian, French, and even Icelandic- they all seem very interesting to me.
What did you find easiest when integrating into Croatian society?
Socializing with people and interacting with others. Many years of working in tourism helped me develop a great tool for integrating into Croatian society.
What does having Croatian roots mean to you?
It means a lot to me- learning more about my father’s family, my identity, my ancestors’ history, and the legacy I can pass on to future generations.
What advice would you give to other Croatian descendants abroad who want to learn the language or connect with their heritage?
I would suggest they learn more about their roots, give the country a chance, and connect with it. As a first-generation descendant, connecting with Croatia has been one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve had. I hope they can have the same positive experiences I’ve had while living here.
Thank you for following Roman’s journey! We’d be delighted to hear your feedback or anything you'd like to share- feel free to leave a comment below.