My journey toward sustainability kicked off when I became a parent, and it completely transformed my perspective. Suddenly, my responsibility extended beyond just raising my kids; it encompassed creating a world where they could thrive in harmony with nature.

Actions often speak louder than words, so I began making changes to our own lifestyle. We started by cultivating an edible garden, exploring various composting methods, carrying our food containers when getting takeout, opting for local products, reducing disposable items, using recycled materials to decorate parties, among other actions.

When it was time to re-enter the workforce after a break to care for my children, I discovered a new passion, or perhaps a calling: to actively contribute to the movement for a better future for all. This led me to pursue sustainability courses offered by renowned organizations such as The Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership and the Professional Certificate of Sustainability at MIT and work in the field.

At present, I hold the responsibility of crafting Vidacity's strategic direction, with a primary focus on molding it into a pivotal catalyst for startups and innovation in sustainability.

My role also extends to establishing vital partnerships with businesses, investors, accelerators, and other multipliers within the sustainability-entrepreneurship ecosystem to create an active and vibrant community of founders and changemakers.

The primary challenges I encounter revolve around the gradual pace at which sustainability changes unfold and the resistance from various stakeholder groups, who frequently prioritize short-term objectives over the broader, long-term societal and environmental benefits.

To tackle these hurdles and make progress toward our goals, I count on the power of perseverance, backed by data-driven reasoning, and influencing as well as persuasion.

During my time at university in Brazil, I was deeply troubled by the stark inequality and the limited opportunities available to many young people, who were often unable to pursue tertiary education due to the high costs of private universities or the necessity to work long hours to support their family.

Being fortunate enough to gain admission to one of the country's top public universities, I felt a strong urge to give back to society. Alongside a dedicated group of fellow students, we initiated something truly remarkable: a not-for-profit organization aimed at providing underprivileged individuals with the chance to continue their education, thereby enhancing their prospects to gain admission to public universities and, consequently, to seek better employment.

This NGO has been operating since 2000, and it has had a profoundly positive impact on the lives of thousands of people throughout this remarkable journey.