The discussion about equal opportunities has always been present in the most diverse social spheres, but we still encounter structural barriers that hinder access for historically excluded groups.

Affirmative action therefore emerges as an indispensable tool in building a more just and equitable society.

As someone who experiences and feels the importance of these initiatives firsthand, I would like to reflect on the positive impact they have on transforming lives and strengthening a plural society.

What are affirmative actions?

Affirmative actions are public policies or private initiatives that seek to correct historical inequalities, offering opportunities to marginalized groups, such as women, black people, indigenous people and people with disabilities.

They manifest themselves in various forms, such as quotas in universities, programs to encourage diversity in the job market and cultural inclusion policies.

These initiatives are not privileges, but historical reparations. They recognize that the starting point of many is not the same and that active measures are necessary to balance access to fundamental rights.

Why are they indispensable?

Brazil is marked by profound inequalities, many of which are rooted in structural racism and other forms of discrimination. Despite progress, the numbers show that there is still a long way to go.

For example, the black population, which represents the majority in the country, still faces difficulties in accessing quality education, formal employment and leadership positions.

Affirmative action creates bridges where chasms once existed. It does not eliminate inequalities instantly, but it opens doors for more people to demonstrate their capabilities and reach new heights.

Personal and collective impact

As a CEO and a black man, I have seen in practice how transformative affirmative action is. It not only changes the trajectory of individuals, but also promotes a collective impact.

When more people have access to education, the job market and the possibility of occupying positions of power, we all win: companies become more innovative, the economy grows and society becomes more inclusive.

But it is important to highlight that these policies need to be accompanied by an ongoing effort to deconstruct prejudices and rethink structures. They are just a starting point for a deeper transformation.

The challenge of sustainability of affirmative action

Despite the progress made, affirmative action still faces resistance and questions. Many argue that it is unnecessary or even unfair.

However, research and data show that, when well implemented, these policies expand access and do not harm other groups.

The challenge lies in ensuring that these initiatives are maintained, strengthened and complemented by other inclusion policies. It is not enough to open the doors; we must ensure that those who enter can remain and prosper.

Therefore, the equality we desire will only be achieved when we recognize that equity requires action. And at this point, affirmative action is a powerful tool to accelerate necessary changes and ensure that everyone can dream and achieve.

Jiu-Jitsu is much more than a martial art. It is a philosophy of life that teaches how to face challenges with strategy, resilience and self-control. Just like on the mat, conflicts in professional and personal life require specific skills to be resolved successfully. And after much reflection on the subject, I concluded that many Jiu-Jitsu techniques can be used in real life.

That is why I decided to write this article to share with you some of these lessons, and how they can be applied to manage conflicts effectively. I hope you enjoy it!

1. Assess the situation before acting

In Jiu-Jitsu, before any move, we analyze the opponent’s position, the pressure exerted and the possibilities of defense or attack. In the world of conflicts, this practice is essential.

When disagreements arise, our instinctive reaction is often to respond immediately, but observing calmly helps us understand the motivations and perspectives of all parties.

This analysis prevents hasty decisions and opens space for more strategic solutions. It will certainly help you a lot in your day-to-day life.

2. Use your opponent’s strength to your advantage

One of the central philosophies of Jiu-Jitsu is to take advantage of your opponent’s energy, transforming his strength into your advantage.

In conflicts, this can be translated as the ability to actively listen and transform criticism or resistance into learning and opportunities.

Instead of rigidly opposing, adapting to the situation and looking for common ground can be the key to a harmonious resolution.

3. Resilience is more important than brute force

On the mat, physical strength does not always determine the winner. Resilience, patience and technique usually outweigh brute force.

The same goes for conflicts: staying calm and focusing on the solution are more effective than reacting with aggression or heightened emotion. Building emotional resilience helps maintain balance even in the most tense situations.

4. Anticipating moves prevents burnout

Just as an experienced fighter is able to predict the opponent’s next move, in conflict management it is essential to anticipate possible developments.

If you understand the dynamics involved and the intentions of the parties, you can prepare yourself to communicate more clearly and avoid unnecessary confrontations.

5. Submission is not the only objective

In Jiu-Jitsu, the fight does not always end with a submission; sometimes, the goal is just to control the situation or find a safe exit.

In conflicts, this means that the objective should not always be “winning.” Sometimes, the most important thing is to reach an agreement that satisfies both parties or that preserves the relationship in the long term.

6. Learning is in the practice

Finally, an essential lesson of Jiu-Jitsu is that we learn more from challenges than from easy victories.

Every conflict we face teaches us something valuable about ourselves and how we interact with each other. Therefore, see these situations as opportunities for growth. Just like on the mat, life is a series of battles.

However, when we apply the philosophies of Jiu-Jitsu, we can transform conflicts into moments of learning and evolution. In the end, the true winner is the one who grows from the experience and strengthens their relationships.

Nowadays, social entrepreneurship has gained prominence as a powerful tool for transformation. And I am a fan of the subject.

After all, in a society marked by inequalities and environmental challenges, businesses that go beyond profit and seek positive impact have become essential.

That is why I decided to write this article to share a little of my vision on the importance of this movement and how it can redefine the future. I hope you enjoy it!

A new way of doing business

Social entrepreneurship is more than a business model; it is a philosophy that puts people and the planet at the center of business decisions.

Unlike traditional companies, which focus exclusively on financial returns, social businesses seek to balance profit with the generation of social or environmental impact.

In the global context, where millions face poverty, climate change threatens environmental balance and access to basic services is still limited, this model becomes a beacon of hope.

It proves that it is possible to generate wealth while solving structural problems that still affect our society.

Sustainable Impact: A Path to the Future

What sets social entrepreneurship apart is its ability to create sustainable and scalable solutions.

Initiatives such as clean energy projects in rural communities, inclusive education programs or microcredit platforms for small entrepreneurs show how businesses can be agents of change.

These actions not only promote local change, but also inspire other companies to follow suit. When social businesses thrive, they prove that positive impact and financial success are not conflicting goals, but rather complementary.

Social entrepreneurs are agents of change

Social entrepreneurs are not just business leaders; they are visionaries who identify gaps where governments or traditional organizations fail. By getting closer to local realities, they create practical solutions that transform lives.

These agents of change also create a multiplier effect. One example is the generation of jobs in vulnerable communities, which improves the local economy and strengthens the self-esteem of people who previously saw no alternatives.

My commitment to social entrepreneurship

As CEO, I believe that companies have the power to go beyond profit and actively contribute to society.

Social impact initiatives not only change the lives of those who directly benefit, but also create a legacy that influences future generations. That is why I say: social entrepreneurship is a choice that requires courage and vision.

However, the benefits to society as a whole are invaluable. Imagine a world where every company is committed to generating a positive impact. That is the future we must build.

And social entrepreneurship challenges us to rethink the role of companies in the world. It reminds us that sustainability, inclusion and innovation can — and should — go hand in hand.

What about you? Have you thought about how you can use your work or company to generate a positive impact? The world is changing, and each of us has a role to play in this transformation.

As CEO of SEDA College and a Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, I realize that many lessons learned on the mat are directly reflected in the business world.

That’s why I like to say that this martial art goes far beyond sport; it is a true philosophy of life that teaches the importance of focus, patience and execution.

These principles, when applied to entrepreneurship, become powerful tools for overcoming challenges and achieving goals.

Focus: the basis for success

In Jiu-Jitsu, losing focus can mean giving up a position or being submitted. In entrepreneurship, it is exactly the same thing. With so many demands and distractions, staying focused on goals and priorities is essential.

One lesson I learned on the mat is the importance of keeping a clear mind even under pressure. When we face an opponent, we cannot let ourselves be carried away by emotion or haste.

In the corporate world, this means making strategic decisions and not deviating from long-term goals, even in the face of obstacles.

For leaders, focus is more than just attention; it is knowing how to identify what really matters and dedicating energy to what will bring the best results.

Patience: understanding the right moment

Jiu-Jitsu is the art of patience. Often, an advantageous position or a finish only comes after minutes of study and small adjustments. Haste, in these moments, is the enemy of progress. As an entrepreneur, I have learned that the same is true in the business world.

Sustainable growth takes time. There is no point in wanting immediate results or trying to rush processes. Well-structured projects and carefully built relationships have a more lasting impact.

Therefore, just as on the mat, in entrepreneurship, it is important to know how to wait for the right moment to act – whether to launch a new product, establish a partnership or expand the operation.

Execution: from theory to practice

In Jiu-Jitsu, studying techniques without applying them is like reading about business without undertaking it. Everything we learn must be tested in practice. Execution is the link that transforms knowledge into results.

In entrepreneurship, execution does not mean just taking action, but acting with precision and consistency. In leading SEDA College, I learned that having ideas is just the beginning.

What really sets a leader apart is the ability to transform strategies into concrete actions and to correct course whenever necessary. Just like in Jiu-Jitsu, improvement comes with daily and constant practice.

A journey of continuous evolution

Jiu-Jitsu and entrepreneurship have something in common: they are both journeys with no shortcuts. Every defeat on the mat is an opportunity to learn, just as every mistake in business is a chance to adjust strategy.

The combination of focus, patience and execution has been fundamental in my career. As CEO, I believe that the balance between these elements is what builds sustainable results and strong leadership.

Black Consciousness Day, celebrated on November 20, is a date for reflection and resistance, but also for celebration and recognition.

Beyond being a milestone in the racial struggle, it is an opportunity to remember the richness of black history, recognize structural challenges and reaffirm the importance of valuing the contributions of the black population to Brazil and the world.

Why is Black Consciousness Day important?

The choice of November 20 is not accidental. This date pays homage to Zumbi dos Palmares, a symbol of resistance and the fight against slavery in Brazil.

The date not only recalls the historical struggles against racism, but also reflects on what still needs to be done. Social indicators show that, despite progress, racial inequality is still alarming.

The black population is the majority in Brazil, but faces the fewest opportunities for social and economic advancement. In this context, Black Consciousness Day reinforces the urgency of transforming these realities.

More than a day of struggle, a day of recognition

When we think of black consciousness, we are also talking about recovering erased stories and recognizing legacies.

Afro-Brazilian culture enriches our national identity in many ways: music, cuisine, religions, arts and much more. However, recognition needs to go beyond folklore and celebration.

The inclusion of black narratives in spaces of power, in schools and in the media is essential for future generations to grow up with references that value their identity.

The fight for equality belongs to everyone

Although Black Consciousness Day originated in the struggles of the black movement, it is not an issue exclusive to this population.

The search for a more just society must be a collective commitment. Black people cannot bear the responsibility of fighting racism alone.

Companies, institutions and leaders have a central role in promoting anti-racist practices. From creating inclusive policies to ensuring spaces for black voices in decision-making positions, structural actions are crucial for us to advance as a society.

Reflection and action: the call of Black Awareness Day

Black Awareness Day is an invitation to reflection, but also to action. Reflecting on privileges, recognizing injustices and rethinking attitudes is essential. However, change only occurs when we move towards a more inclusive society.

By celebrating this date, I hope we can go beyond words and build a future where black awareness is synonymous with justice, equality and valuing diversity. May this day inspire concrete actions in our personal and professional lives.

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.