Transforming an idea into an impactful business is one of the greatest challenges in the world of entrepreneurship. However, it is also the most rewarding path for those who want to leave a legacy.

As CEO of SEDA College, I bring this reflection based on a trajectory that combines innovation, resilience and a focus on real impact. After all, building something that transcends profit requires more than strategies — it requires purpose and consistency.

Innovation: the engine that drives transformative ideas

Every great achievement is born from an idea. However, it is not enough to simply innovate. It is necessary to innovate in an intelligent and sustainable way.

In practice, innovation means being aware of trends, listening to market demands and seeking creative solutions to real problems.

In the education sector, for example, I realized that the exchange experience should be more accessible, connected and personalized. That is how, at SEDA College, we developed methodologies that go beyond traditional teaching.

Our proposal is not only to offer courses, but to create transformative experiences for students from different cultures, connecting education to the realization of dreams.

If you have an idea, ask yourself: how does it solve a real problem? And, more importantly, how can it adapt to meet the needs of an ever-changing world?

Persistence: the bridge between idea and execution

Many promising ideas never make it to market due to a lack of persistence. The truth is that entrepreneurship is like crossing a long river. There are currents, headwinds and obstacles that test your ability to keep going.

In my journey, there were times when the vision seemed distant. But I learned that the secret is to take one step at a time. Breaking big goals into small actions made the process more tangible.

In addition, remaining resilient is essential to deal with unforeseen events, learn from mistakes and reinvent yourself in the face of challenges. Persistence is not just about resisting, but about insisting on improving, learning and adapting.

Impact: the legacy of conscious entrepreneurship

We live in an era in which businesses need to go beyond profitability. Social and cultural impact has become indispensable for companies that want to stand out.

At SEDA College, transforming lives through education is what drives us. Students who arrive with dreams and leave prepared to face the world are the best measure of success.

And this is what every impact business should strive for: creating real value for people, communities and even for the market itself.

Transforming ideas into impact businesses requires thinking about the purpose from the beginning. Ask yourself: what does my company deliver to the world that goes beyond the product or service?

How do you start transforming your idea into an impact business?

• Be clear about your purpose: what problem does your idea solve? And why?
• Validate your idea: talk to potential customers, seek feedback and adjust as necessary.
• Plan with resilience: create an action plan with clear and adaptable goals.
• Surround yourself with the right people: a good team and mentors help transform challenges into opportunities.
• Don’t be afraid to make mistakes: mistakes are part of the process. Use them to grow.

Transforming ideas into impact businesses is a challenging but rewarding journey. It requires vision, courage and, above all, persistence.

Therefore, I repeat, entrepreneurship is not just about what we build, but about how we use our creations to improve the world.

EF Education First recently released a worrying fact: Brazil has fallen 21 positions in the world rankings for English proficiency, now occupying 81st place among 116 countries.

As CEO of SEDA College, an institution focused on language teaching and cultural exchange, this information leads me to reflect on some crucial points.

English proficiency goes beyond mastering a language. It is an essential tool for employability, social inclusion and global mobility.

In an increasingly connected world, speaking English has gone from being a differential to becoming a basic necessity. So why are we falling behind?

Education and the collective impact

The results of the study I mentioned above and which were published in Folha de São Paulo show that the age group from 26 to 30 years old has the highest proficiency in Brazil.

However, we still see significant challenges among older groups, which may be a reflection of an education system that has historically given little focus to language teaching.

As a society, we need to rethink our education policies and include English as a strategic pillar of development.

The responsibility lies with each of us

At the same time, I believe that the responsibility for change lies not only with the system, but also with the individual. Today, with technology, we have more access than ever to free and paid resources for learning English.

Platforms, apps, videos and even standardized tests, such as those used in the EF research, are available to everyone.

However, having access to the tools is not enough; you need motivation, planning and a clear goal. I like to say that English is an open door to the world, but it is up to each person to decide whether they want to walk through it.

The role of companies and institutions like SEDA College

As the leader of an institution that experiences the impact of language learning on the lives of thousands of people, I believe we have a role to play in creating environments that not only teach English, but also inspire people to dream big and achieve their global goals.

Our job is more than teaching grammar; it is empowering individuals to compete, innovate and thrive on an international stage.

That is why I see the drop in the rankings as a wake-up call, but also as an opportunity. It is time to review our priorities as a country, as organizations and as individuals.

After all, lifelong learning is one of the most powerful tools we have to transform our lives and contribute to collective development.

Education has the transformative power to rewrite histories and redesign futures. That is why I deeply believe in its ability to change realities.

I see social projects focused on education as one of the most effective tools for combating inequalities and opening doors to personal and collective development.

Therefore, I decided to write this article to talk a little more about my vision regarding this important role that social projects play. I hope you enjoy it!

The transformative role of education in social projects

Education is more than just learning content; it is the basis for building autonomy, critical thinking and access to new opportunities.

In vulnerable communities, social projects that offer free or higher-quality education are often the only chance for children and young people to break the cycle of poverty that surrounds them.

These initiatives not only teach, but also connect beneficiaries to a network of support, resources and opportunities.

These are seeds that are planted that, over time, blossom into conscious citizens, qualified professionals and community leaders.

Examples of real impacts

The results of educational social projects go beyond the individual: they impact entire families and generate significant changes in society.

An example that always inspires me are young people who, by having access to training or tutoring programs, are able to reach universities and professional positions that previously seemed unattainable.

Another case is literacy projects for adults, which restore the dignity of people who often face a life of exclusion.

They show that it is never too late to learn, and that knowledge has the power to transform even the most challenging perspectives.

The role of those who believe in change

The success of social projects depends not only on financial resources, but mainly on people who believe in the power of transformation.

Companies, NGOs and volunteers play crucial roles in this process. When we get involved, whether with time, knowledge or donations, we contribute to creating a collective impact that reverberates for generations.

I believe that we all have a shared responsibility to look beyond our own horizons and invest in human potential. Every time we support educational initiatives, we are investing in a more just and equal world.

Education as a pillar of a better future

As a professional and as a citizen, I see education as the key to a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Each successful social project is a reminder that knowledge has the power to transform not only individual lives, but entire communities.

As we look at the world and its challenges, it is inspiring to know that education is still one of the strongest tools we have to promote real change. May we continue to invest in it and believe in its potential to transform the impossible into reality.

For a long time, the image of a successful entrepreneur was associated with endless work hours and constant sacrifice.

However, with experience, I discovered that the secret to success as an entrepreneur is not in pushing your own limits, but in learning to work strategically and sustainably.

The search for balance is strategic, not a weakness

Being an entrepreneur is challenging, but it doesn’t have to be an unbearable burden. When I started, I thought that being available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week was synonymous with dedication.

However, I soon realized that by ignoring my own limits, I was not being efficient, but rather accumulating fatigue.

Having balance means understanding that your energy and mental health are finite resources, and that knowing how to manage them is a fundamental part of good leadership.

Today, I take strategic breaks and seek out moments of disconnection to recharge my creativity and clarity in decision-making.

Delegating is freedom, not loss of control

Another valuable lesson I learned was realizing that trying to do everything alone didn’t make me more competent, but rather overwhelmed me. Understanding the power of a qualified team and trusting them was liberating.

Delegating tasks doesn’t mean giving up control, but creating an environment where responsibilities are distributed so that each person can give their best. This allows me to focus on what really matters: strategy, innovation, and growth.

Planning is better than putting out fires

Often, working beyond one’s possibilities is directly linked to a lack of planning. I’ve found myself in situations where demands overwhelmed me simply because I hadn’t established clear priorities.

Today, my routine is guided by well-defined objectives. It doesn’t mean that I don’t face unforeseen events, but when they do arise, there is space and preparation to deal with them. This type of organization reduces stress and increases productivity.

Saying “no” is an essential skill

As entrepreneurs, we often feel the need to embrace every opportunity. However, saying “yes” to everything can lead us down a path of burnout and loss of focus.

I learned that knowing how to say “no” is just as important as accepting challenges. This skill helped me prioritize projects that align with my values ​​and long-term goals, instead of getting lost in activities that don’t add value to the business.

Work smart, not hard

The real secret to success is working smart, not hard.

Time management, using technology, strategic networking, and forming partnerships are tools that help me achieve results without sacrificing my health or personal life.

Believe that continuous effort is the only path to success is a myth. Sustainable success comes from strategic actions and the awareness that we are human, not machines.

I see the sport as a true school of life, especially for children. Jiu-Jitsu goes far beyond techniques and movements; it works on fundamental aspects of character, emotions and social development.

And within this universe, competitions play a crucial role. They represent more than a dispute: they are experiences that prepare children for the challenges of the real world.

In this article, I share why I believe Jiu-Jitsu competitions are so important and how they can positively impact children’s futures.

1. Competition as emotional learning

Competitions provide a unique opportunity for emotional learning. By participating in a tournament, children are exposed to situations of victory and defeat.

Learning to celebrate achievements with humility and to deal with frustrations in a constructive way are valuable lessons that go beyond the limits of the mat.

This type of experience helps build resilience, an essential skill for facing the difficulties that will certainly arise in life.

Furthermore, they learn that each result, whether positive or negative, brings important lessons for personal growth.

2. Building discipline and focus

Preparing for a competition requires commitment and dedication. Children need to attend training regularly, respect the schedule and follow the teachers’ instructions.

This preparation routine teaches the importance of discipline and focus to achieve goals. This mentality goes far beyond sports.

What they learn on the mat directly reflects on other aspects of their lives, such as at school, where focus and discipline are equally important for academic success.

3. Building self-confidence

For many children, competing may seem like a big challenge – and it is! But it is precisely this overcoming that strengthens self-confidence.

Stepping onto the mat in front of an audience, facing nervousness and giving their best are acts that show that they are capable of dealing with challenging situations.

Each victory achieved or obstacle overcome becomes a source of personal pride, reinforcing self-esteem and the belief that they are capable of facing challenges, regardless of the context.

4. Respect and ethical values

Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that carries fundamental values ​​such as respect, humility and fair play. In a competition, children learn to deal with opponents as partners in their evolution, valuing the effort and dedication of everyone involved.

Winning or losing with respect and integrity is one of the greatest lessons that the sport can offer, and this ethical basis is something that they carry with them for the rest of their lives.

5. Social interaction and teamwork

Despite being an individual sport, Jiu-Jitsu promotes a strong sense of community. Children compete, but they also cheer for each other, create bonds of friendship and learn to deal with different personalities and situations.

This coexistence is essential for social development, helping to form more empathetic and collaborative adults.

Conclusion

In my opinion, Jiu-Jitsu competitions are not just about medals or podiums. They provide children with a safe environment to explore their abilities, face challenges and learn lessons that will last a lifetime.

As a practitioner of the sport, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that these experiences have on children who grow up more disciplined, confident and ethical.

The lessons on the mat go far beyond the sport – they shape character and prepare new generations for a more resilient and balanced future.

This is the strength of Jiu-Jitsu, and that is why I believe so much in the importance of competitions as part of this learning process. After all, what you learn on the mat, you take with you for the rest of your life.

In a world where changes happen at a dizzying speed, I believe that the only way to stay relevant and competitive is through continuous learning.

More than a tool for growth, the constant search for new knowledge has become, for me, an essential strategy for achieving success in any field.

That’s why I decided to write this article talking a little about why I believe that we should all learn continuously and never stop studying. I hope you enjoy it!

The Age of Knowledge: the importance of staying up to date

We are living in the age of knowledge, where access to information is easier and faster than ever. However, this also means that, in order to stand out, we need to go beyond the basics.

I see continuous learning as a process that goes beyond acquiring new information; it is the ability to adapt and innovate that it provides.

When I stay up to date, I feel that I am more prepared to face market challenges and find innovative solutions.

The power of curiosity and openness to new things

I believe that curiosity is what drives continuous learning. I always ask myself, “What else can I learn about this?” or “How can I improve my understanding of this topic?”

This mindset helps me expand my horizons and become more flexible. In addition, keeping an open mind to new things allows me to learn from colleagues, experts, and even from unexpected experiences.

Learning to Share: A Journey of Collective Growth

Continuous learning also teaches me to share. With knowledge comes the responsibility to help those around me. I try to pass on what I have learned because I believe that collective success is just as important as individual success.

This cycle of learning and sharing strengthens teams and creates an environment where everyone grows together.

Professional and Personal Development: An Interconnected Cycle

Continuous learning not only impacts my career, but also my personal life. Each new skill or knowledge acquired improves my sense of purpose and self-confidence.

Developing as a professional is also about developing as a person, and I see this interconnection as one of the great rewards of a life dedicated to learning.

Commitment to the future

In short, for me, continuous learning is a way to prepare myself for the future, but also a way to transform the present. I believe that by never stopping learning, we can face any change and transform each challenge into a new opportunity.

This commitment to learning is not just a professional choice, but a lifestyle that helps me achieve my goals and build a solid and meaningful career.

I deeply believe in the transformative power of education. As CEO of SEDA College, I see every day how access to knowledge and educational opportunities shape people’s lives, broadening horizons and transforming perspectives.

That’s why I like to emphasize that education not only prepares students for their careers, but also empowers them to actively contribute to a more just, inclusive and prosperous world.

Education as a tool for personal and social growth

Education is not limited to academic subjects. It teaches empathy, cooperation and critical thinking. At SEDA College, we encourage students to question the status quo, seek innovative solutions and build a more connected and tolerant society.

I believe that every class, every academic experience and every interaction they have is a seed planted for the future, with the potential to grow and bear fruits that impact the collective.

It is inspiring to see how these young people, coming from different parts of the world, share their cultures and learn from each other.

Education as a means of reducing inequalities

Our role goes beyond training qualified professionals. We know that education is one of the most powerful tools for reducing inequalities. The opportunity to study and improve oneself is often the only way to break cycles of poverty and exclusion.

Here, we promote accessible and inclusive education that embraces diversity and prepares students to face adversity with resilience and determination.

I believe that each diploma issued by SEDA College represents a victory not only for the student, but also for their families and communities.

Education and global transformation

Education is an essential investment for global progress. In a world marked by economic, social and environmental challenges, we need leaders, thinkers and professionals who understand the importance of acting responsibly and ethically.

At SEDA College, we encourage critical thinking and the search for knowledge that generates impact. We encourage our students to seek sustainable ways of acting, whether in their careers or in their daily actions.

This is how we can contribute to a world that is more aware and prepared to face challenges.

The Importance of Accessibility and Innovation in Education

As a leader of an educational institution, I know that our responsibility does not stop at classroom teaching. We must seek new ways to connect, inspire, and educate, making learning accessible to all.

With the advancement of technology, we have the opportunity to offer quality education to an even wider audience, regardless of where they are.

At SEDA College, we are always aware of changes and looking for innovative ways to teach. I believe that, with these initiatives, we are contributing to a society where everyone has the opportunity to learn and evolve.

As a black man, my life is marked by experiences that reflect a reality shared by many in Brazil and around the world.

Throughout my personal and professional career, I have faced situations that have made me understand, in a clear and direct way, the impacts of structural racism.

A system that is rooted and perpetuated over generations, which permeates our institutions and social relations, even when not explicitly recognized.

Recognizing and understanding this problem is a necessary and urgent exercise. After all, structural racism does not only affect the individual; it dehumanizes, limits and interferes in the lives of millions of black people in our country.

Deepening the discussion: what is structural racism?

Structural racism goes beyond specific discriminatory attitudes. It manifests itself in the practices, policies and norms that, over the centuries, have normalized exclusion and racial prejudice, restricting black people’s access to fundamental rights.

It is evident in the low levels of black representation in leadership positions, in wage disparities, in difficulties in accessing quality education, and in many other areas.

This unequal structure is the result of a slave-owning past that still echoes in the present. Often, white and black people grow up in such different realities that structural racism becomes invisible to those who do not experience it.

And, in the meantime, this invisibility allows inequalities to perpetuate themselves, naturalizing an exclusion that undermines the full potential of a plural society.

The importance of affirmative action

Affirmative action, such as quota policies and incentive programs, is essential to correcting accumulated inequalities. It is worth noting that these measures are not “privileges” or “benefits”.

They represent a way of creating a fairer starting point for people who have historically been excluded from opportunities.

As a black man, I know how transformative these policies are, providing many young talents with the conditions to thrive in an environment where basic disadvantages are still seen.

The inclusion and representation that these actions promote have a profound impact not only on those who receive them, but on society as a whole.

With more black people in positions of power, in universities, and in areas of influence, we promote a plurality of ideas, talents, and perspectives that benefit the country as a whole.

The role of each of us in the fight against structural racism

It is essential that each of us, regardless of our color, adopt an active stance in the fight against structural racism. Supporting inclusion policies and talking about the topic with colleagues, friends, and family are essential actions.

We need to understand that this fight is not just for black people; it is for all those who want a truly fair and egalitarian society.

Affirmative actions, by themselves, are not the complete solution to structural racism. But they represent an important step in the right direction. We need to continue moving forward, driving change, and supporting policies that aim for inclusion.

Let skin color not be an obstacle, but part of the richness of our diversity. The journey is still long, but the commitment to a fairer society is non-negotiable.

It is with great pride that I share the victories of the Jiu-Jitsu students from Cidade de Deus, who, led by professor Márcio de Deus, won 12 medals at the European Championship held in Portugal.

There were 5 golds, 3 silvers and 4 bronzes, highlighting not only the talent of our athletes, but also the power of sport as a tool for transformation.

Each medal symbolizes hours of dedication, willpower and the search for a better future, reflecting how Jiu-Jitsu becomes a path to overcoming daily challenges and opens doors to new opportunities.

Challenges that go beyond the mat

These young people face a challenging reality, where the obstacles go far beyond competitions. Growing up in a community marked by economic and social difficulties requires a resilience that few people can understand.

For many, Jiu-Jitsu is more than a sport: it is an outlet, a safe place where they find discipline, support and purpose. Winning on the mat, for them, also means winning in life.

This journey is not easy. Many of these young people have to overcome a lack of resources, stress and, often, prejudice.

However, this team has shown that unity, discipline and collective support can transform lives, enabling a more promising future for each of them.

Why I support social projects like this

Social projects like the one led by Márcio de Deus in Cidade de Deus have a profound impact, and that is why I support this initiative.

SEDA College has contributed as a partner, helping to provide resources that guarantee the training and participation of these young people in international competitions.

But my support goes beyond financial; it reflects my belief in the power of sport as a tool for inclusion and transformation.

I see Jiu-Jitsu as a way to offer these young people an alternative to the vulnerable environment in which they live, providing the possibility of living their dreams and building careers.

A transformation that goes beyond medals

Each medal is a symbol of individual achievement and, at the same time, of collective victory. What really motivates me to support this project is the legacy it leaves for future generations, showing that, with effort and dedication, it is possible to overcome adversity.

The victories of these young people at the European Championship are just the beginning of a greater transformation. They are proof of the power that sport has to shape character, build bonds and offer a future to those who are forgotten by society.

I will always support initiatives like this, because I believe that every young person deserves the chance to win, on and off the mat.

In the corporate world, a simple but powerful concept guides me: treat employees the way you would like to be treated. For me, this approach goes beyond a motto; it is a constant practice that transforms teams and strengthens companies.

In my career, I have experienced the fruits of leadership that values ​​respect and empathy. Therefore, I would like to share some reflections on how I treat my team and the positive impact of this attitude on the work environment.

I hope you enjoy it!

The basis of mutual respect

I have always believed that respect is the basis of any healthy relationship, whether personal or professional. This implies recognizing that each employee brings their own skills and experiences, which are essential to the success of the company.

I try to put myself in the shoes of each member of my team and understand their daily challenges, which allows me to realize that everyone, regardless of their position, deserves transparent communication and a safe work environment.

The importance of active listening

In times of pressure and tight deadlines, listening may seem like a secondary task, but I see it differently. When I take the time to listen to my employees, I am showing that I value their opinions.

In my experience, I have found that this simple gesture encourages the sharing of ideas and strengthens team engagement. After all, they are the ones on the front lines and often have valuable solutions to daily challenges.

Recognition: small actions with a big impact

Recognizing an employee’s efforts and results is a gesture that cannot be underestimated. A word of thanks, positive feedback or even a compliment during a meeting are actions that, for me, have a big impact on team motivation.

Over the years, I have noticed that a culture of recognition not only boosts employees’ self-esteem, but also strengthens their sense of belonging and commitment to work. 

Flexibility and trust

Today, flexibility and trust are essential elements for team motivation. I always think about how I would like to have space to balance my personal and professional life, and I try to offer this to my team.

This flexibility allows each person to feel confident to deliver their best, without the pressure of a rigid routine. When I trust in the abilities of each employee, they respond with responsibility and commitment, generating high-level results.

Leadership by example

Finally, I believe that leadership by example is one of the most effective ways to inspire a team. If I want a culture of respect, collaboration and trust, I need to be the first to practice it.

I try to show, through my actions, the importance of treating everyone with empathy and professionalism. This attitude, for me, creates a positive cycle, where employees feel motivated to replicate this behavior.

By doing this, I see that together we are building not only a company, but a community that values ​​respect and mutual collaboration.