Mateo Hollander is a bold cultural connector, bilingual educator, and travel curator from Chicago whose journey into Latin American culture began with a spark of curiosity—and transformed into a lifelong purpose. At just 15 years old, a student exchange program in Costa Rica opened his heart to a new way of experiencing the world. That trip lit the fire for what would become years of immersive solo travel, intentional learning, and a deep commitment to cultural understanding.

Fluent in Spanish and profoundly connected to Latin American traditions, Mateo has spent extended periods living in Chile and Uruguay and traveling throughout the region. His approach goes beyond tourism—it’s about forging real relationships, honoring traditions, and building bridges between communities through shared experiences.

Known for his magnetic energy and natural ability to bring people together, Mateo excels at transforming gatherings into vibrant communities. His presence is warm, welcoming, and alive. Whether engaging with a stranger at a market, a student in a classroom, or a guest at an event, Mateo effortlessly turns casual encounters into meaningful relationships.

As co-founder of Kasa Jauz, Mateo merges his passions—language, travel, education, and cultural immersion—into a singular mission: to celebrate Latinx identity with depth and joy. His role is not just operational or logistical; he is the pulse that helps each experience stay grounded, intentional, and transformative. Whether leading a dance circle, coordinating a cultural exchange, or welcoming a guest to a new space, Mateo reminds us that celebration can be sacred, and that human connection—when nurtured—can reshape the way we live, learn, and love.