Entrepreneurship is, without a doubt, one of the biggest challenges anyone can face in life. When I decided to venture into the business world, I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but the magnitude of the difficulties and rewards only became clear along the journey.

Therefore, today I decided to share with you this experience and the reasons why I consider the act of undertaking it a true act of courage. Hope you like it!

The decision to undertake

Making the decision to undertake is, in itself, a courageous step, but I was aware that embarking on this journey would require sacrifices and a total commitment to my vision.

The desire to create something meaningful, to impact the world in a unique way, was what motivated me to take the first step. This desire to make a difference and build a legacy was the driving force behind my decision.

Facing the fear of the unknown

The unknown is one of the entrepreneur’s biggest enemies. When starting SEDA College, I was plunged into a sea of ​​uncertainty. There was fear of failure, of the unpredictable and of not being able to achieve my goals.

However, courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to face it. Each obstacle overcome, each challenge overcome, reinforced my determination and confidence in the path I chose.

Resilience in the face of challenges

Entrepreneurship is an emotional rollercoaster. The highs are exciting, but the lows can be devastating. I faced many difficult moments, from complicated financial decisions to the need to adjust strategies to keep the company on the right track.

Resilience, the ability to adapt and continue fighting, was essential to overcome these periods of adversity. With each challenge overcome, I felt my courage renewed and my passion for the venture grow.

The reward of success

Seeing SEDA College grow and become a reference in education in Ireland is one of the greatest rewards I could imagine. Success did not come immediately, but each achievement, big or small, was a testament to the effort and dedication invested.

The positive impact on the lives of our students, the satisfaction of seeing our employees prosper, and the market recognition are evidence that all the effort was worth it.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned along this path, it’s that the courage to follow our dreams can take us to incredible places.

Therefore, I invite everyone who has a vision, a dream, to take the first step with courage and determination. After all, undertaking is a journey that is worth every moment lived.

Each medal I won in Jiu Jitsu carries a unique and special story. They are not just pieces of metal hanging from a ribbon.

Each of them symbolizes a chapter of my journey, marking sacrifices, overcoming and moments of glory that define who I am today.

The beginning of the journey

My Jiu Jitsu journey began like many other athletes, with a mix of curiosity and a desire to challenge myself.

At first, the techniques seemed complex and the training was exhausting, but every drop of sweat spilled on the mat was a building of my physical and mental endurance.

I remember the first classes, when the movements seemed impossible and frustration was a constant companion. However, each difficulty overcome brought me closer to my first medal, which would become a symbol of perseverance.

Challenges along the way

Intense training, injuries and defeats were inevitable along the way. There were times when I thought about giving up, when the physical pain seemed unbearable and the defeats shook my confidence. But it was in these times of adversity that I grew the most.

Each defeat taught me the importance of humility and resilience, and each injury reinforced my determination to come back stronger.

The medals I won during these difficult times not only recognized my skill in Jiu Jitsu, but also my ability to overcome adversity.

Personal overcoming

Each medal won in Jiu Jitsu represents a personal victory against my own limits. I remember a competition in which I faced an opponent who seemed invincible.

The tension before the fight was palpable, and the pressure of wanting to win was enormous. However, when I got on the mat, something changed inside me.

I was able to block out doubts and just focus on technique and strategy. In the end, when they raised my hand in victory, the medal I received was more than an award; it was proof that, with determination and focus, I could overcome any challenge.

The lessons learned

Jiu Jitsu taught me countless lessons that I take into life off the mat. Discipline, respect, and patience are just some of them. Each medal is a tangible reminder of these lessons.

They remind me of the late nights training, the strict diets and the moments of doubt when I chose to continue. These medals are symbols of my continued evolution, both as an athlete and as a person.

Inspiration for the future

The medals I hang on the wall are also a source of inspiration for the future. They remind me that the journey does not end with victory.

Each new competition is a new opportunity to learn, grow and surpass myself. The true value of these medals lies in the stories they tell and the doors they open to future achievements.

More than awards, they are constant reminders that true victory lies in the journey and the lessons learned along the way. Each medal won is a testimony of my evolution and a beacon that guides my steps towards future achievements.

Writing a book is a challenging and rewarding project. “Think Big, Start Small” was born from my experience and observation of how small actions can lead to big results.

And today I decided to share the motivations that led me to write this book, highlighting the importance of dreaming big and starting with small, strategic steps.

The inspiration behind the book

The inspiration for “Think Big, Start Small” came from my personal and professional journey.

Over the years, I’ve realized that many of my most significant successes and learnings have not come from sudden big changes, but from small, consistent actions that have accumulated over time.

I saw that many people feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of their goals and end up giving up before they even start. I wanted to show that it is possible to achieve big dreams starting with small, manageable steps.

The “Think Big, Start Small” philosophy

The book’s central philosophy is simple: big achievements start with small steps. This concept is applicable in different areas of life, whether in personal development, career, business or any other endeavor.

We often have a grandiose vision of what we want to achieve, but the key to success is breaking that big goal down into smaller, more manageable tasks.

Not only does this make the process less intimidating, it also allows you to celebrate small victories along the way.

Overcoming the fear of failure

One of the biggest obstacles we face when chasing big dreams is the fear of failure. This fear can be paralyzing and stop us from taking the first step. In the book, I explore how starting small can mitigate this fear.

When we start with something small, the risk is lower and the consequences of eventual failure are easier to manage. This creates a safer environment to experiment, learn, and adjust trajectory as needed.

Successful examples

To illustrate the effectiveness of the “Think Big, Start Small” approach, I share in the book several success stories of entrepreneurs, leaders, and individuals who achieved great things by starting with small, deliberate actions.

These stories show that success is not a matter of luck, but of strategy, persistence and the ability to take small steps in the right direction.

Applying philosophy in everyday life

The philosophy of “Think Big, Start Small” doesn’t just apply to big projects or long-term goals. It can be incorporated into our daily routine to promote growth and continuous improvement.

For example, rather than trying to completely transform a habit all at once, we can start with small changes that, over time, lead to significant transformation.

This approach can be applied in different areas, such as health, education, finances and relationships.

The key is to understand that every small step is an important step in the right direction. By embracing this philosophy, we can transform grand visions into tangible, achievable realities.

The educational exchange market has evolved significantly in recent decades, becoming an essential experience for the personal and professional development of many young people.

In my book “Exchange Market”, I explore emerging trends and predict what the future of this enriching practice will be like. In this article, I will show you some of the main changes that are shaping the future of exchange.

Technological evolution and exchange

Technology plays a crucial role in transforming the exchange market. With the advancement of communication tools, students have access to a multitude of resources that facilitate the planning and execution of an exchange.

Online platforms allow you to search for programs, register and even interact with future colleagues and educational institutions before you even leave.

Additionally, virtual and augmented reality are beginning to be used to provide virtual tours of campuses and destination cities, helping students familiarize themselves with their new environment before they arrive.

Sustainable exchange: a new trend

With growing concern about sustainability, the future of exchange will also be influenced by more environmentally conscious practices.

Schools and universities are incorporating programs that promote sustainable exchange, encouraging students to adopt eco-friendly practices during their stay abroad.

This includes everything from choosing less polluting means of transport to participating in local sustainability projects.

Awareness of environmental impact and adoption of responsible behaviors will be essential components of exchange programs in the future.

Diversification of exchange destinations

Historically, destinations such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have always been preferred for exchange.

However, this reality is changing. Countries like Ireland are becoming increasingly popular with international students.

This diversification is driven both by the search for new cultures and by the increasing quality of educational institutions in these locations.

Exchanges in less traditional countries offer unique and often more financially accessible experiences, attracting a greater number of students.

Customization and flexibility of programs

The future of exchange will also be marked by the personalization and flexibility of the programs offered. Educational institutions and exchange agencies are increasingly adapting their services to students’ individual needs and interests.

Hybrid programs, which combine online studies with in-person experiences, are becoming more common, allowing students to have greater control over their time and budget.

Furthermore, the flexibility in course formats, with short and long-term options, facilitates the participation of students who have different commitments and objectives.

This personalization contributes to a richer exchange experience that is aligned with the expectations of each individual.

Impact of international relations

International relations and immigration policies also play an important role in the future of exchange. Cooperation between countries to facilitate student mobility will be crucial to the growth of this market.

The creation of specific visas for students and bilateral agreements between nations can simplify bureaucratic processes and encourage more young people to seek opportunities abroad.

Furthermore, promoting exchange programs as cultural diplomacy tools can strengthen ties between countries and promote mutual understanding. Government support for these initiatives will be essential for their expansion.

Therefore, in my view, exchange will continue to be a powerful tool for personal and professional development, providing students with the chance to become more aware global citizens and prepared for the challenges of the future.

As CEO of SEDA College, I have the privilege of witnessing incredible stories of overcoming and success among our students.

Today, I want to share with you the journey of Arthur Santiago, who recently reached the podium of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu championship, becoming a shining example of what is possible to achieve with dedication and discipline.

Arthur’s Jiu-Jitsu journey

Arthur Santiago, just 10 years old, is a true inspiration. Born in São Paulo, he began his Jiu-Jitsu journey at a very young age, demonstrating exceptional talent from the beginning.

He recently reached a significant milestone in his sporting career by taking third place in the Brazilian Children’s Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

This achievement is the result of years of hard training, discipline and passion for the sport. Arthur trains daily, balancing his school responsibilities with the rigor of Jiu-Jitsu training. His dedication is admirable and serves as an example for all of us.

Education and sport: a winning combination

At SEDA College Online, we firmly believe in the importance of a holistic education that encompasses both academic and personal development.

Arthur exemplifies this philosophy perfectly. In addition to being a Jiu-Jitsu champion, he is also a dedicated student at SEDA College Online, where he studies English.

He specifically benefits from the English for BJJ course, which was designed to meet the needs of Jiu-Jitsu athletes.

Therefore, even with his busy schedule, he dedicates time to improving his language skills, and understands that knowledge of English will be an important differentiator in his future career, be it in sport or in any other area.

SEDA College’s role in Arthur’s success

At SEDA College, we strive to provide a quality education that suits the needs of our students.

Our online format allows students like him to balance their studies with other passions and responsibilities. Therefore, we are committed to supporting our students at every stage of their academic and personal journeys.

Arthur is an example of the positive impact that flexible, high-quality education can have. His dedication to Jiu-Jitsu and his studies is proof that, with the right support, young people can achieve great things.

Inspiring future champions

Stories like Arthur’s are a source of inspiration for everyone at SEDA College. They remind us of the importance of believing in our dreams and working tirelessly to achieve them.

Arthur shows that it is possible to be a champion both in sport and in the classroom, and that support from family, coaches and school is crucial to success.

For those seeking inspiration, Arthur’s story is a powerful reminder that determination and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements. He is a young man who, despite his young age, already understands the value of education and dedication.

Arthur, congratulations on your achievements so far. You are a true example of excellence and determination.

We are all so proud of you and excited to see what the future holds for you. Keep pursuing your dreams with the same passion and dedication, and know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

As someone who believes in the importance of social justice and building a fairer society, I find myself increasingly involved in the idea of ​​investing in social projects.

I believe that these initiatives have the power to transform lives and communities, promoting equity and offering opportunities to those who need them most.

In this article, I want to share my vision about the importance of investing in social projects and how this practice contributes to a more equitable world. Hope you like it!

The importance of equity

For me, equity means giving everyone the same opportunities to achieve their goals and improve their living conditions, regardless of their origin, color, gender, or socioeconomic status.

When we invest in social projects, we are directly contributing to reducing inequalities and promoting an environment where everyone has the chance to prosper.

Impact on education

One of the most transformative aspects of social projects is their impact on education. I firmly believe that education is the foundation for a better future.

Projects that provide access to quality education, tutoring, scholarships, and extracurricular activities help level the playing field for children and youth from disadvantaged communities.

Investing in education is investing in the future, and social projects play a crucial role in this process.

Health and wellness

Health is another fundamental pillar for a dignified life. Unfortunately, many communities lack access to basic health services.

Social projects that offer medical care, vaccination campaigns, and mental and physical health awareness programs are essential.

They not only improve the quality of life of the beneficiaries, but also help to build a healthier and more productive society.

Social inclusion

Social inclusion is a vital component of any equitable society. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to participate fully in the social, economic and cultural life of their communities.

Social projects that promote the inclusion of minorities, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups are crucial to ensuring that no one is left behind. These projects help to break down barriers and build a more inclusive and welcoming environment.

Community development

Investing in social projects also means investing in community development. Initiatives that promote the local economy, professional training, and social entrepreneurship have the power to revitalize entire communities.

They create jobs, increase income, and strengthen social cohesion. I believe that when communities prosper, everyone wins.

My personal experience

My personal journey of involvement in social projects began a few years ago, when I realized that I could make a difference. I participated in several projects, from food collection campaigns to mentoring programs for young people.

Each experience reinforced my conviction that investing time, resources and knowledge in social causes is one of the most effective ways to promote equity.

By dedicating ourselves to these causes, we are contributing to a more just and supportive society. I believe that, together, we can make a difference and build a better future for everyone.

Belief in yourself is a determining factor for success in any area of ​​life. We often underestimate our capabilities and let fear and doubt stop us from achieving our goals.

However, when we believe in our potential, we open doors to unexpected opportunities and accomplish things we never imagined possible.

The power of self-esteem

Self-esteem is the basis of confidence in our abilities. It allows us to face challenges with courage and determination.

When we have high self-esteem, we are able to overcome obstacles and learn from mistakes, instead of being paralyzed by them.

Believing in yourself does not mean ignoring difficulties, but rather facing them with the certainty that we are capable of overcoming them.

The importance of clear goals

Setting clear and achievable goals is crucial to maintaining motivation and focus. By establishing specific objectives, we have a clear direction of what we want to achieve and can draw up a detailed action plan.

Each goal achieved strengthens our confidence and encourages us to continue moving forward. Therefore, believe in your potential and set goals that challenge your skills and competencies.

Overcoming the comfort zone

The comfort zone is a safe but limited place. To grow and develop, it is necessary to leave this zone and face the unknown. This requires courage and determination, but the results can be surprising.

When we challenge ourselves to try something new, we discover skills and talents we didn’t know we had. Believe in your potential and allow yourself to explore new possibilities.

The role of resilience

Resilience is the ability to recover quickly from adversity. It is essential for anyone who wants to go further than they think. Believing in your potential also means believing that you can get up after every fall.

Resilience teaches us that failures are just stages in the growth process and that each obstacle overcome makes us stronger and prepared for the future.

Positive influences

Surrounding yourself with people who believe in you is essential to maintaining confidence in your potential. Friends, family, and mentors who offer support and encouragement are essential for personal development.

They can help bolster your self-esteem and remind you of your achievements when you’re facing moments of doubt. Choose to be close to those who push you to be better and believe in yourself.

Celebrating your achievements

Every achievement, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated. Recognizing your own progress is important to maintain motivation and self-confidence.

Celebrating personal victories reminds us of how capable we are and encourages us to continue pursuing our goals. Believe in your potential and don’t underestimate the value of small achievements along the way.

Remember that believing in your potential is one of the most important steps to achieving success. When we trust our abilities and challenge ourselves to go beyond, we discover that we are capable of extraordinary feats.

In 2023, SEDA College, in partnership with SEDA College Online, took a significant step towards promoting accessible and inclusive education.

With more than R$500,000 in scholarships offered for social projects, we were able to positively impact the lives of many young Brazilians. So I’m excited to share our ambitious plans for 2024: increasing this amount to R$2 million!

The impact of scholarships in 2023

Last year, our scholarships provided opportunities for students who would not otherwise have access to quality education.

Through our partnership with SEDA College Online, we were able to offer English courses and other professional training, preparing our students for the global job market.

Each scholarship represented a chance for transformation, enabling recipients to develop essential skills and broadening their career prospects.

We saw inspiring stories of young people who, thanks to our scholarships, got jobs, started their own companies and even continued their studies abroad.

Strategic partnerships for success

Our success in 2023 was the result of strategic partnerships with several organizations and social projects. We work together with institutions such as the Márcio de Deus project in Cidade de Deus.

These collaborations were essential to identify the students most in need and ensure that our scholarships reached those who really needed them.

Additionally, our partners provided additional support, such as mentoring and career guidance, helping our fellows maximize the benefit of the opportunities offered.

Ambitious goals for 2024

For 2024, we are committed to substantially increasing our investment in scholarships, increasing the value to R$2 million.

This ambitious goal reflects our unshakable belief in the transformative power of education and our dedication to making a difference in the lives of even more young Brazilians.

To achieve this goal, we plan to expand our existing partnerships and seek new collaborations.

We want to involve more companies, educational institutions and non-profit organizations in our mission. We believe that, by working together, we can create an even greater impact and transform more lives.

Expanding the reach of scholarships

One of our priorities will be to expand the reach of scholarships, ensuring that they benefit an even greater diversity of students.

We will focus on disadvantaged regions and marginalized communities, where the need for educational opportunities is most urgent.

By providing a broader range of options, we will help our fellows prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Let’s, together, continue to make a difference and create a future where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential.

Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art; It is a lifestyle that teaches fundamental values ​​that can be applied in different areas of life.

Since I started playing this sport that has become my true passion, my perspective on challenges, discipline and perseverance has changed drastically.

Therefore, I decided to write this article to share the most valuable lessons I learned along this journey, hoping to inspire those who are looking for personal growth and continuous development. Hope you like it!

Discipline and consistency

One of the first lessons Jiu-Jitsu taught me was the importance of discipline and consistency. On the mat, there are no shortcuts to success.

Every movement, every technique, requires repetition and constant practice. This discipline translates off the mat, helping to create a mindset that is focused and determined to achieve long-term goals.

Consistency in training has shown me that small daily improvements add up to big results over time.

Humility and resilience

In Jiu-Jitsu, you are constantly facing opponents who may be stronger or more experienced. Being defeated is part of the learning process, and it teaches humility.

I learned that each defeat is an opportunity for growth and that, to improve, it is necessary to accept failures and work to overcome them.

This resilience is fundamental in life, where we inevitably face obstacles and challenges. The ability to get up after a fall and move forward is one of the greatest lessons that Jiu-Jitsu can provide.

Emotional control

Jiu-Jitsu is a sport that requires a high level of emotional control. In pressure situations, remaining calm and making rational decisions is crucial.

During training and competitions, I learned to control fear, frustration and anxiety, focusing on technique and strategy.

This emotional control is a valuable skill that I apply in many areas of life, helping to maintain serenity in times of stress and when making important decisions.

Teamwork and respect

Although Jiu-Jitsu is an individual fight, it promotes a strong sense of community and camaraderie. Training is collaborative, where training partners help each other improve.

I learned the importance of working as a team, sharing knowledge and respecting everyone, regardless of skill level. Mutual respect is the foundation of any healthy environment, and Jiu-Jitsu continually reinforces this.

Self-confidence and courage

Facing opponents on the mat and overcoming physical and mental challenges increases self-confidence. Each achievement, be it a new belt rank or victory in a competition, reinforces my belief in my abilities.

This confidence extends beyond the mat, encouraging me to face challenging situations with courage and determination. I learned that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it.

The importance of physical and mental health

Jiu-Jitsu also taught me to value physical and mental health. Regular practice improves physical condition, strength and flexibility.

In addition to the physical benefits, sport offers a space to de-stress and focus on the present moment, functioning as an effective form of active meditation.

Maintaining a healthy body and mind is essential for general well-being and for facing daily challenges with more energy and mental clarity.

Every workout is an opportunity to learn and grow, and these lessons are applicable in all aspects of life. Therefore, if you are looking for a sport that strengthens both the body and the mind, Jiu-Jitsu is, without a doubt, an excellent choice.

The pursuit of objectives is a personal and unique journey for each individual. However, understanding the motivations behind this search can be an enriching and transformative exercise.

Therefore, I decided to write this article, as a way to make you reflect on what drives you to pursue your goals: from the need for personal fulfillment, to the influence of external factors. Hope you like it!

The need for personal fulfillment

One of the main motivations for pursuing goals is the intrinsic need for personal fulfillment. This need is rooted in the desire to feel competent, to overcome challenges, and to achieve goals that have personal meaning.

When a person sets a goal, whether professional, academic or personal, they are, in fact, establishing a milestone of success for themselves.

Reaching this milestone provides a sense of satisfaction and pride, reinforcing self-confidence and self-esteem. Personal fulfillment is also linked to continuous growth and development.

When pursuing goals, people place themselves in situations that require learning and adaptation. This process not only increases knowledge and skills, but also helps build resilience and determination.

Influence of external factors

In addition to internal motivation, external factors also play a significant role in goal pursuit. These factors may include the social, cultural and economic environment in which a person is located.

For example, a culture that values ​​education and professional success may encourage individuals to pursue academic and career goals.

Support from friends and family is also a powerful motivator. Having a support network that believes in you and offers encouragement can make all the difference in your journey.

Recognition and validation from others can provide an extra boost, especially in times of doubt or difficulty.

The vision of a better future

Many people are driven by hope and the desire to create a better life for themselves and those around them.

This vision can be the basis for setting ambitious goals and working hard to achieve them. This motivation is often seen in individuals who wish to overcome adverse circumstances or who seek to contribute to a greater cause.

The belief that your efforts can lead to positive change in the world is a powerful source of energy and dedication.

Overcoming limitations

The pursuit of goals can also be driven by the desire to overcome personal limitations. People often set goals to prove to themselves that they are capable of overcoming obstacles that previously seemed insurmountable.

This need to excel may be a response to past experiences of failure or being underestimated by others.

By setting and pursuing goals, people have the opportunity to redefine their own capabilities and challenge their perceptions of themselves.

This process can be extremely empowering, leading to a greater sense of control over one’s life.

Contribution to society

Finally, for some, the motivation to pursue goals is rooted in the desire to make a positive difference in society.

This can manifest itself in many ways, such as working for social causes, innovating in areas of technology and science, or simply being a positive example for others.

When people see the impact of their actions on the world, it not only validates their efforts, but also inspires an ongoing cycle of motivation and action.

Therefore, the feeling of contributing to something bigger than yourself is a powerful incentive to continue moving towards your goals.

Whether it is the need for personal fulfillment, the influence of external factors, the vision of a better future, overcoming limitations or contributing to society, each of these aspects plays a crucial role in determining our paths.