A vigil to celebrate the life of Bruna Fonseca, the 29-year-old librarian who was killed in Cork on New Year's Day has been held in the city.
Up to 500 people including her niece, 18-year-old Maria Fonseca who travelled with her to Ireland last October, and her cousin Marcela Fonseca, heard the young woman described as being "like a sunny day in the rainy season".
The celebration of her life was organised by the local Brazilian community who thanked all those who supported the family and community over the past week.
Pedro Barroso said Bruna Fonseca was "like a sunny day in the rainy season. She was a loving and dedicated daughter and sister, a confidant friend and great companion, a committed and honest professional.
"An empathetic human being, who helped others in any way she could to make us feel calm and cared, her heart was as gorgeous as her physical beauty. No challenge was big enough to stop the focus she had. And I'm sure she will live through us, because she is unforgettable".
Both Bruna's niece Maria and cousin Marcela wore t-shirts bearing her photograph with the word "unforgettable" in Portuguese and English.
Gabriela Lobianco said that as a community they wished to express their deepest condolences and sympathies to her family and friends.
"Violence against women has no race nor nationality, it is a worldwide issue ad charges a high cost for our society. Every woman should have the right to be safe, to live and dream."
Among those who attended the vigil was the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin, and Lord Mayor of Cork Councillor Deirdre Forde.
Many there dressed in white as the late woman's family had requested. White roses were laid near photographs of happier times compiled by friends at home in Brazil, and candles were lit.
The vigil was live streamed so that her family could watch it at home in Brazil.
The vigil was held at the Lough, a local amenity area in Cork City, which her family said had become a favourite spot for Bruna to visit in the city during her short time here.
— JennïeØSullivân (@OSullivanJennie) January 8, 2023
Afterwards, dozens of people queued to pay their respects to her cousin and niece, and close friend Julina Souza, who said they were overcome by the support and love shown to them by people here.
Arrangements have been made to repatriate Ms Fonseca's body home to Brazil next week.
Almost €54,000 was raised locally to support funeral and repatriation costs.
A man has appeared before the courts in connection with her killing.
