Rotary Club of Akron - Inbound Youth Exchange Student

We are delighted to welcome on November 4, 2025, our inbound Rotary exchange student as our presenter on Luciana "Lu" Ortiz Ancí, from Arequipa, Peru. We look forward to hearing about her activities and experiences during her first few months with us!

Luciana Mercedes Ortiz Ancí was born on November 1, 2008, in Arequipa, Peru — a city known for its rich culture, vibrant colors, and artistic spirit. From an early age, she showed a deep love for the arts, often spending her time painting, taking pictures, and exploring creative expression through music and movement.

Growing up surrounded by the beauty of Arequipa’s landscapes and traditions, Luciana developed a keen eye for detail and a strong emotional connection to visual storytelling. Her interests expanded to include playing the piano, dancing, singing, and experimenting with makeup, each outlet allowing her to express different facets of her personality.

At the age of 16, Luciana embarked on a new chapter as an exchange student in the United States. This experience broadened her perspective, giving her the opportunity to share her Peruvian heritage while embracing new cultures and ideas. Her time abroad has deepened her artistic voice and inspired her to continue exploring creativity in all its forms.

Luciana’s love for cats, her passion for photography, and her dedication to the arts make her a dynamic and thoughtful young creator. Whether behind a camera, at a piano, or in front of a canvas, she brings warmth, curiosity, and authenticity to everything she does.