We were recently surprised by Meta’s decision to end its internal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

This news is a step backwards at a time when the corporate world should be stepping up its efforts to combat inequality and promote inclusion.

I cannot help but express my repudiation of this measure and reaffirm my unwavering commitment to promoting these fundamental values.

Why do diversity, equity, and inclusion matter?

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just noble ideals; they represent essential strategies for the success of organizations in the 21st century.

Companies that embrace diversity are able to attract talent from different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, enriching creativity and innovation.

In addition, equity ensures that all employees have access to fair opportunities for growth, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or any other factor.

Inclusion, on the other hand, ensures that everyone feels valued and respected in their work environments. These pillars create stronger, more resilient organizations that are better prepared to face the challenges of a constantly changing market.

Rejecting the setback

It is concerning that a company of Meta’s size, with global influence, has decided to discontinue such crucial programs. Such a move sends a negative message to the market and could discourage other companies from investing in DEI initiatives.

It is our role, as business leaders, to condemn decisions that jeopardize the progress made so far.

Inclusion cannot be treated as a passing trend, but rather as a moral and strategic obligation that benefits society as a whole.

SEDA’s commitment to inclusion

At SEDA, diversity, equity and inclusion are core values. We invest in policies that ensure equal opportunities and create safe spaces where everyone can thrive.

For us, this is not only a matter of social responsibility, but also a competitive advantage that strengthens our company and generates positive impacts for our partners and customers.

A call to action

It is time for us to come together and show that the corporate world will not follow this path of regression. Companies can and should take a stand in favor of diversity, implementing concrete actions to combat inequalities.

I invite all business leaders to reflect on the impact of their decisions and embrace the responsibility of creating more inclusive environments.

Together, we can transform outrage into change and ensure that the future is marked by more empathy, respect and equality.

The startup world has always been a breeding ground for innovation, and 2025 promises to be a landmark year for these disruptive companies.

As an angel investor, I always try to find startups that offer something innovative and scalable. That’s why I decided to share some trends for this year.

Artificial intelligence and automation

It’s no surprise that artificial intelligence continues to lead transformations in the market. Companies that have adopted AI have reported a 25% increase in operational efficiency in advertising campaigns.

One example is Sqill, a Portuguese startup that created an AI-powered video editor, simplifying content creation for brands. Solutions like these are transforming everything from process automation to large-scale personalization.

Sustainability on the rise

The growing demand for sustainable solutions is a direct reflection of the global concerns about climate change that are intensifying.

Startups that invest in green technologies, such as clean energy and advanced recycling, are attracting investors committed to positive impact.

An inspiring example is that of Portuguese startups that are leading recycling and carbon capture initiatives. This is the time to undertake with sustainability as a competitive advantage in mind.

Innovations in digital health

The healthtech sector continues to grow rapidly, offering solutions that facilitate access to healthcare. Technologies such as wearables that monitor health in real time and telemedicine are gaining ground.

A notable initiative is Glooma and its SenseGlove, a glove equipped with sensors that helps women perform breast self-exams. This is a clear example of how startups can positively impact people’s lives.

Fintechs and financial inclusion

In the world of fintechs, the potential for transformation remains enormous. The market is expanding with startups that simplify financial services and promote inclusion.

Rauva, for example, offers resources such as online company registration and integrated financial management, helping small and medium-sized entrepreneurs gain autonomy and control.

Tools for remote work

Remote work is here to stay, and startups that develop solutions for productivity and collaboration are on the rise.

Tools that facilitate project management, such as videoconferencing and task organization software, are essential for companies seeking flexibility. This movement reinforces the importance of creating scalable and user-centric solutions.

The rise of cybersecurity

With the increase in digital incidents, cybersecurity has become a priority. Startups that offer innovative data protection solutions are standing out.

Opportunities abound in this field, especially for those looking to build trust in a scenario full of digital threats.

I believe that startups that focus on these trends have everything to stand out in 2025. Whether exploring AI, promoting sustainability, innovating in healthcare or strengthening cybersecurity.

Racism is a reality that permeates various areas of society, and the corporate environment is no exception. Despite advances in diversity policies, many workers still face racial discrimination in companies.

That is why I decided to write this article to explore some data, show some recent cases and highlight the importance of combating racism in organizations. I hope you enjoy it!

The persistence of racism in the workplace

According to data from DIEESE, black workers in Brazil receive, on average, considerably lower salaries than white workers, even when they occupy equivalent positions.

In addition, informality disproportionately affects the black population: around 47% of black workers are in informal jobs, compared to 32% of white workers. It is not just a question of numbers.

A recent survey revealed that 60% of black professionals have already suffered prejudice at work, while 67% believe they have lost opportunities due to their skin color.

These data highlight the structural inequality that still needs to be addressed. In addition, there are still cases of blatant racism within companies.

Recent cases that shocked Brazil

In 2024, a cook reported in Magazine Luiza after receiving an email containing racist insults. In the case of Zara, a black police officer was prevented from entering a store, and the manager was indicted for racism.

The murder of João Alberto Silveira Freitas in a Carrefour store in 2020 was a landmark that led to protests and deep reflections on structural racism.

These cases not only highlight the seriousness of the problem, but also show how companies can face financial, legal and image repercussions when they do not treat the issue seriously.

The responsibility of companies

Combating racism is not only an ethical issue; it is also a strategic necessity. Consumers are increasingly aware of corporate stances, and companies that fail to promote diversity face boycotts and damage to their reputation.

Some organizations are taking the lead in promoting racial equality. In 2024, seven Brazilian companies received the first national certification for their racial inclusion policies.

Initiatives like this demonstrate that it is possible to create more diverse and inclusive work environments. How? In short, it is possible to adopt:

• Training and awareness: promote anti-racist education programs for employees and leaders;
• Inclusion policies: establish goals to increase the hiring of black professionals in strategic positions;
• Monitoring inequalities: conduct internal audits to identify and correct disparities in pay and opportunities;
• Support for reporting: create safe channels so that victims of racism can report cases without fear of retaliation.

I conclude this article by saying that racism in companies is not an isolated problem, but a reflection of historical and structural inequalities in our society.

Combating this reality requires continuous action, commitment and courage to face the problem head on. As leaders, employees or consumers, we all have a role to play in building fairer and more inclusive environments.

Diversity is a word that has been gaining more and more space in corporate, social and academic debates. For a long time, the search for diversity was treated as an end goal, a point of arrival that, once reached, would mean success.

However, throughout my career, I have realized that diversity in itself is only part of the equation. Without inclusion, it becomes incomplete.

Diversity: a starting point

Personally, I have always believed in the strength that lies in diversity. Living with people from different backgrounds, stories and perspectives expands our view of the world and challenges deeply rooted prejudices.

But what happens when diversity is not accompanied by inclusion? In my professional environment, I have witnessed situations where differences were present, but were not celebrated or valued.

For example, a company that prides itself on having employees of different ethnicities, genders and cultures, but does not promote equal conditions so that everyone can contribute fully, has diversity, but no inclusion.

What is the consequence of this? An environment is created where diversity is present, but their voices are not heard or, worse, are silenced.

Inclusion: The Key to Impact

Over time, I have learned that inclusion is what gives diversity meaning. After all, inclusion is the intentional action of creating safe and accessible spaces where all people feel they belong and that their contributions matter.

At work, this means more than just hiring diverse people; it means ensuring that they have opportunities to grow, that they are respected and that they can express themselves without fear of reprisal.

I recently participated in a project where I saw the magic of inclusion in action. A diverse team was assembled, and each member had space to share ideas and experiences.

The creativity and problem-solving of this team was impressive. It was there that it became clear to me that inclusion transforms diversity into a true competitive differentiator.

The Challenges of Inclusion

Although inclusion is essential, it is not easy. It requires changing structures, questioning norms and, often, facing resistance.

I have seen situations where people felt threatened by these changes, as if making room for others meant losing something.

But I believe that inclusion is a game of addition, not subtraction. Everyone wins when the environment becomes more welcoming and productive.

The future we want to build

Today, I advocate that diversity should always be accompanied by a commitment to inclusion. There is no point in celebrating statistics or photos that show diversity if the experiences of these people do not reflect a truly inclusive environment.

True transformation happens when each individual is recognized for their uniqueness and has space to shine. This is the future I want to help build — and I believe we can do it together. Do you agree?

Investing in disruptive startups is one of the most exciting and challenging decisions I make as a professional. And I’ll go even further: I can say that it’s a true mission that I’ve embraced.

After all, throughout my career, I’ve realized that this choice goes far beyond seeking financial returns — it’s about contributing to significant transformations in society and markets.

The impact of innovation on problem-solving

I’ve always been fascinated by solutions that challenge the status quo. And disruptive startups have the power to tackle complex problems and propose creative and efficient alternatives.

That’s why, when I look at a growing business, I ask myself: what impact can this idea have on people’s lives?

Companies that adopt emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence or blockchain, or that reimagine traditional business models, are of great interest to me.

It’s not just about solving problems, it’s about transforming the way we live and work. And I find that quite fascinating.

Constant learning

I like to say that investing in startups is also a way of keeping myself constantly learning.

Each one brings unique challenges, ideas and dynamics, requiring me to always be up to date with market trends, new technologies and changes in consumer behavior.

This environment of continuous learning is one of the things that motivates me the most. Being in contact with visionary entrepreneurs challenges me to think more creatively and expand my horizons.

The importance of a clear purpose

Another point that guides my choices is the purpose of the startup. Businesses that place social impact or sustainability at the center of their operations have a special appeal to me.

I believe that long-term success is directly related to a company’s ability to create value for society.

For example, startups that promote financial inclusion or that develop sustainable solutions to environmental challenges make me feel like I’m investing in something that goes far beyond numbers on the balance sheet.

The calculated risk

I can’t deny that investing in disruptive startups is risky. But it’s precisely this risk that makes the process so exciting. To mitigate risks, I carefully evaluate the business model, the founding team, and the market potential.

I believe that a well-founded, data-driven approach is essential to maximize the chances of success. Even so, I recognize that not all bets will pay off, and it is part of the game to accept that failures also bring valuable lessons.

Connecting passion and vision

Ultimately, what really drives me is the passion for innovative ideas and the belief that we can build a better future through disruption.

That is why I can say with all my heart that investing in startups is, for me, more than a financial act — it is a way of being part of something bigger. Do you agree?

The end of a year is a crucial time to reflect on the lessons learned, redefine priorities and set clear goals for the future.

For many, planning is an essential habit for achieving success, whether in your personal or professional life. If you want to make 2025 the most productive year of your career, the time to start is now.

Revisit your 2024 goals

Before setting goals for next year, it is essential to evaluate how you performed in 2024. Which goals were achieved? What fell through the cracks?

Do an honest analysis and identify the reasons that led you to achieve (or not) your goals. Use these answers to adjust your expectations and strategies for 2025.

This practice is not only a way to learn, but also a time to celebrate. After all, recognizing your achievements helps you start the new year with more confidence and energy.

Prioritize what really matters

With so many responsibilities and demands, it’s easy to get lost in what really matters. A valuable tip is to prioritize goals that are aligned with your values ​​and long-term vision. Ask yourself: “Will this bring me closer to my dreams?”

When setting priorities, remember to divide your goals into three main categories: personal, professional and financial, allowing you to have a clearer view of where to focus your efforts and helping you maintain balance.

Set realistic and measurable goals

Good planning starts with specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound goals (SMART methodology).

For example, instead of defining “I want to grow professionally”, establish something like “I want to be promoted to project manager by December 2025, meeting the company’s performance criteria”.

In addition, break down larger goals into small, measurable steps. This makes it easier to monitor and avoid frustrations throughout the year.

Set aside time to plan calmly

The end of the year can be busy, but it’s essential to set aside time to plan calmly. Good planning requires focus and attention to detail.

Consider using tools such as diaries, productivity apps or even a physical planner to organize your ideas.

Dedicate a day or a few hours of your week to structure your goals. If necessary, seek inspiration from books, courses or even mentors who can help you have a clearer vision.

Build a flexible plan

As much as planning is a powerful tool, unforeseen events are part of life. An effective plan must be flexible enough to adapt to changes. Create space for adjustments and review your progress regularly.

In addition, remember to include moments of self-care and rest. Success without balance can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion.

By taking advantage of the end of 2024 to design your 2025, you will be one step ahead, with clarity about what you want to achieve and how you intend to get there.

Don’t wait for the new year to start to take action; the ideal time to plan is now. After all, as the saying goes: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

On the mat, the lessons we learn go far beyond technique. Jiu-Jitsu taught me values ​​that I carry into my personal and professional life, especially regarding respect and hierarchy.

These principles, fundamental to the functioning of any academy, are equally indispensable for leading teams with efficiency and harmony.

Respect as the basis of everything

Respect in Jiu-Jitsu is not just an act of education, but a foundation for learning and coexistence. Regardless of level or experience, each person on the mat has something to teach.

This vision is reflected in team leadership: listening to and valuing each member, recognizing their contributions and treating everyone with dignity are attitudes that strengthen the work environment.

As a leader, I realize that respect creates trust, which is the basis for a team that works together towards the same goal. When we lead with respect, we are able to inspire and engage the people around us.

Hierarchy as a structure, not as power

The hierarchy in Jiu-Jitsu is clear: there is a black belt, a teacher who guides training, and there are students at different levels of learning.

However, this hierarchy is not about power, but about responsibility. The role of those in a higher position is to help those behind them to grow, respecting each person’s pace.

This same logic is essential in the corporate world. Leadership is not about imposing, but supporting and guiding. Good leadership is built by offering the tools and support necessary for each team member to reach their potential.

Just like on the mat, the leader must also be humble enough to recognize that he or she still has something to learn, including from his or her subordinates.

Respect and hierarchy in balance

In Jiu-Jitsu, there is a natural balance between respect and hierarchy. The most experienced teach, but also learn by reinforcing fundamentals. The less experienced follow the guidelines, but have room to question and evolve.

When we apply this balance to teams, we create a healthy environment where people understand their roles but know they are valued.

As a leader, I seek to create this balance on a daily basis, cultivating a space where everyone has a voice, but where there is also clarity of roles and responsibilities.

After all, without respect, hierarchy becomes authoritarian; without hierarchy, respect loses direction.

Leadership beyond the mat

What I learned in Jiu-Jitsu transformed my view of leadership. At work, as in sports, results are built collectively.

A leader needs to know how to balance discipline with empathy, hierarchy with openness, and always maintain respect as a core value.

The mat is a reflection of life: we learn to fall, to get up, to fight and to respect. I take these lessons with me every day, both in corporate challenges and in training.

Because, in the end, leading is like fighting Jiu-Jitsu: it is not about winning alone, but about growing together with the team. Do you agree?

Finding purpose in both work and life is a deeply personal journey. It goes beyond titles, salaries, or external achievements.

It’s about understanding who we are, the impact we want to make, and how to align our daily actions with values ​​that truly matter. Here, I share some thoughts and strategies that can help you find that purpose.

1. Understand what purpose means to you

The concept of purpose can vary from person to person. For some, it’s related to big causes or changes in the world.

For others, it might be something simple, like taking care of family, being a good friend, or making a difference in a workplace.

Ask yourself: What really matters to me? What makes me feel alive and fulfilled? Answering these questions can be the first step in beginning to identify your purpose.

2. Reflect on your passions and talents

What do you love to do? What activities make you feel most energized and productive? Purpose often lies at the intersection of what we enjoy and what we do well.

List your passions and talents and see how they can connect with your personal and professional life. A hobby, for example, can be the starting point for a new project or even a new career path.

3. Align your values ​​with your choices

Purpose and values ​​are deeply intertwined. Identify what is non-negotiable for you: ethics, authenticity, collaboration, personal growth?

Make sure your work and life choices are aligned with these principles. When your actions reflect your values, the sense of purpose tends to grow naturally.

4. Find meaning in the present

We don’t always need big changes to find purpose. Often, it can be hidden in the small actions of everyday life.

Think about the impact you already have on the lives of those around you — colleagues, clients, family. Recognize the value of what you do and how it contributes to the greater good. This practice can transform your perspective on your current routine.

5. Seek out inspiring connections

People around us can help us see possibilities that we might not see on our own. Talk to mentors, colleagues, or friends about your ideas and goals.

Seek inspiration from stories of people who have found their purpose. These connections not only broaden our horizons, but also motivate us to take action.

6. Accept that purpose evolves

Your purpose today may be different in five years — and that’s okay. It evolves as we grow, face challenges, and gain new experiences. Be flexible and allow yourself to rediscover your motivation at different stages in life.

Finding purpose is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It’s about connecting with what brings you meaning and joy, both in your work and in your life. Remember: your purpose doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does have to be true to you.

We all face challenges in our lives, both personal and professional. However, what really sets people apart is not the absence of difficulties, but the way they choose to deal with them.

That’s why I decided to share a little bit of my journey and talk about how I learned to turn barriers into opportunities for growth. I hope you enjoy it!

The challenge as a starting point

Challenges often arise as unexpected problems that require resilience and creativity to be overcome. At the beginning of my career, I faced situations that put my skills and emotional balance to the test.

I realized that, before reacting to the challenge, it was necessary to understand it, analyze its causes and consequences, and only then seek practical solutions. What once seemed like an insurmountable obstacle began to transform into a constant learning experience.

Each difficulty gave me the chance to rethink strategies, learn new skills and, often, seek help from sources I would never have imagined.

Growth mindset: the power of learning

One of the most important moments of this journey was adopting a growth mindset. This change allowed me to see challenges from a new perspective. Instead of seeing them as limitations, I began to see them as lessons.

For example, when facing a competitive market, I understood that I needed to invest in my qualifications. I sought out courses, exchanged experiences with mentors and challenged myself to leave my comfort zone.

Over time, I realized that each step I took towards learning was a movement towards opportunities.

The power of human connections

Another essential lesson was the importance of building a support network. When we face challenges alone, the pressure can be overwhelming.

Throughout my career, I realized that sharing difficulties with colleagues, friends and mentors not only brings new perspectives, but also strengthens relationships.

Often, the best opportunities arose from these moments of exchange. Someone with a different view of the problem could offer a solution that I had not seen. Furthermore, creating genuine connections is a valuable resource that goes beyond the professional.

Transforming challenges into purpose

Finally, I realized that challenges only make sense when they allow us to grow and impact other people. With each challenge I overcame, I found ways to use my learning to contribute to the development of colleagues, friends, and my team.

This transformation of challenges into purpose brought even more clarity to my role as a professional and human being. Today, I see challenges as invitations to evolve and to strengthen the journey of those around me.

I like to say that transforming challenges into opportunities is a skill that develops over time. It takes courage to face what seems like an obstacle, determination to seek solutions, and humility to learn during the process.

In today’s world, marked by constant transformations and the growing interconnection between cultures and economies, international education is no longer just an alternative; it has become a necessity.

As CEO and founder of SEDA College, I have experienced first-hand the impact that an educational experience abroad can have on training individuals who are prepared to face the challenges of a globalized market and a multicultural society.

The value of international experience

Studying in another country goes beyond simply acquiring academic knowledge. It is a process of self-discovery and personal growth.

By coming into contact with different cultures, values ​​and ways of thinking, students develop fundamental skills such as empathy, adaptability and intercultural communication.

In addition, this experience prepares students to work in diverse teams, understand different perspectives and solve problems creatively.

These are qualities that, more than ever, are valued in global companies and necessary to operate in a constantly changing job market.

International education and career transformation

As an entrepreneur and educator, I see stories of transformation that international education provides every day.

Many of our students come to SEDA College looking for more than a diploma; they are looking for a fresh start, an opportunity to expand their horizons and reach new heights in their careers.

That is why I like to say that international education is not only a passport to the global job market, but also a gateway to a universe of possibilities.

From opportunities in multinational companies to innovative ventures, the learning acquired in an international environment forms confident, resilient professionals who are willing to lead changes.

The role of institutions in the formation of global citizens

Educational institutions like SEDA College play a crucial role in this scenario. More than offering English courses or specializations, our goal is to create an environment that values ​​diversity and promotes the exchange of knowledge between cultures.

We believe that forming global citizens means creating spaces where students can challenge themselves, experiment and learn collaboratively.

This means investing not only in infrastructure, but also in methodologies that prioritize practical learning, international networking, and the development of socio-emotional skills.

A final thought

In short, international education is a powerful agent of transformation, both for individuals and for society. It builds bridges between cultures, eliminates barriers, and creates a sense of unity in a world marked by differences.

As the leader of SEDA College, I feel privileged to be part of this journey and to contribute to the formation of global citizens, prepared to make an impact in their communities and the world.