Germany
From Ludwigshafen to São Paulo
Sometimes the most valuable connections are formed where you least expect them. For Sanja Stojovic and Eliane Pedrao, it all started at an international Expert Team Meeting in Ludwigshafen. What began as a professional encounter quickly developed into a friendship that has lasted to this day – spanning countries, continents, and time zones.
A connection that clicked instantly
During the meeting, both quickly realized how much they had in common. Their shared sense of humor, meaningful conversations, and enthusiasm for exploring new places together turned colleagues into friends almost immediately. A joint sightseeing tour through Speyer made one thing clear: their connection went far beyond work.
“There was so much we didn’t have to explain to each other – our values, our way of working, and how we interact with people were remarkably similar.”
“Funny enough, after a short time people started asking whether we were sisters.”
Connected through shared values
What continues to shape their friendship today are their shared beliefs:
Treating people with appreciation, being there for one another, and placing great importance on family.
Their bond became evident beyond the workplace as well:
When Sanja’s family spent a few days in São Paulo, Eliane naturally welcomed her, showed her around the city, and made sure she felt at home. To this day, Sanja’s family remembers that experience with great warmth.
“My family still talks about how warmly she was welcomed there.”
A friendship around the globe
From Ludwigshafen to São Paulo:
Some time later, a BASF project brought Sanja to São Paulo herself, where she once again had the opportunity to work with Eliane. For her visit, Eliane had already put together a plan filled with excursions, shared evenings, and introductions to people she wanted Sanja to meet. During her stay, Sanja not only got to know São Paulo but also Eliane’s family and circle of friends.
What began as a professional connection had long since become something personal:
“There wasn’t a single moment when I felt on my own,” Sanja recalls. “I naturally became part of her community.”
BASF connects - globally and personally
What started as a professional encounter in Ludwigshafen grew into a friendship that connects Germany, Brazil, and Montenegro. Over the years, Sanja and Eliane have nurtured their bond, created lasting memories, and shared important moments in each other’s lives. Their story shows how collaboration can evolve into genuine friendship across borders and continents.
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