Structural racism is still a challenging reality in many sectors of society, and the educational environment is no exception.

As a black professional working in the educational field, I have experienced firsthand the difficulties imposed by this unequal system. Today, I share some strategies that I consider essential to address and overcome this reality within educational institutions.

Recognizing the problem is the first step

Change begins with awareness. For a long time, structural racism has been made invisible or treated as something isolated, when in fact it is intrinsically linked to historical and social structures.

Recognizing that it exists in the educational environment is essential to proposing concrete solutions. This means being willing to revisit institutional practices and curricula that perpetuate exclusion and reinforce stereotypes.

One way to do this is to analyze data related to the representation of black teachers, administrators and students in prominent positions. This diagnosis helps to highlight inequalities and direct efforts to address them.

Anti-racist education as a tool for transformation

Education is, without a doubt, one of the most powerful tools we have to combat structural racism.

The inclusion of content that promotes African and Afro-Brazilian history and culture in school curricula, as provided for by Law 10.639/2003, is essential.

However, more than complying with a legal requirement, it is necessary to create a true culture of valuing diversity.

In my experiences, I have seen how initiatives that promote debates on racial inequality and training for teachers can positively impact the educational environment.

Preparing professionals to deal with racial issues is a differential in creating a more inclusive and safe space for all students.

Promoting representation and occupying positions of power

Another crucial point is ensuring that black voices are heard in all instances of the educational environment.

This involves not only encouraging the admission of black students to educational institutions, but also paving the way for them to occupy leadership positions, both in academia and in school management.

As a black person and an educator, I know how important it is to be a positive role model for students. Representation matters because it conveys the message that students can achieve whatever they want.

Being in prominent positions is not just an individual achievement, but also a way to challenge the status quo and open doors for those who come after.

Building alliances for change

Fighting structural racism cannot be a solitary struggle. It is essential to build alliances with other professionals, institutions and organizations that share a commitment to social justice.

In the educational environment, this can include partnerships with NGOs, social movements and even companies that promote inclusion actions.

These alliances strengthen the cause and expand the reach of initiatives, ensuring that the fight against racism goes beyond the classroom and impacts the entire society.

The future we want

I like to say that tackling structural racism in the educational environment is not an easy task, but it is absolutely necessary. Every step taken in this direction is an opportunity to transform lives and create a more just future for future generations.

May we be agents of this change, occupying our spaces and inspiring others to do the same. Because, in the end, education is the key to building a truly egalitarian society.

In recent years, bilingual education has been gaining ground in Brazilian schools, especially in the private sector. As someone who has lived and works in a multicultural context, I realize that the debate surrounding this topic still needs to mature.

As a nation rich in diversity, Brazil deserves an educational system that truly prepares new generations for a globalized future.

However, to achieve this, we need to deeply rethink how bilingualism is implemented in our schools. And what we are seeing is that there is a long way to go before this becomes a reality.

Bilingualism as a tool for the future

We live in a world where the ability to communicate in more than one language is no longer a differential, but a necessity. English, Spanish, and even less common languages ​​are becoming passports to academic and professional opportunities.

However, in many Brazilian schools, bilingual education is seen only as an attraction for parents concerned about their children’s future, and not as a robust educational strategy.

In this sense, bilingualism should be a tool for developing global citizens, not just an extra subject on the curriculum.

The challenge of accessibility and quality

One of the biggest challenges of bilingual education in Brazil is making it accessible to everyone, not just the economic elite. Currently, bilingualism in schools is almost exclusively a reality in the private sector.

Meanwhile, most public schools face difficulties even in offering quality education in the official language, Portuguese.

We need public policies that democratize language teaching, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have access to the same learning opportunities.

In addition, it is essential to ensure that bilingual education is provided with quality. Often, the model applied in schools is nothing more than language classes with extended workload.

For bilingualism to work, it is necessary to invest in the training of specialized teachers and in methodologies that integrate language learning with the development of skills in other areas, such as mathematics, science and history.

Valuing the mother tongue

Another point that concerns me is the risk of devaluing our own language. After all, Portuguese is one of the most widely spoken languages ​​in the world, and our cultural wealth is deeply linked to it.

When rethinking bilingual education, we must be careful that it does not become an obstacle to mastering Portuguese.

We need to educate students who are fluent in English (or another language), but who also know how to express themselves clearly and profoundly in their mother tongue.

A more bilingual and inclusive future

Rethinking bilingual education in Brazilian schools is essential to creating a more egalitarian, prepared and globally connected society. This is an issue that requires collaboration between governments, educators, families and companies.

I believe that, with well-planned strategies, we can transform bilingualism into a right for all, and not just a privilege for a few.

This transformation begins with our reflection and, who knows, with a joint effort to change the current reality. Do you agree?

I deeply believe that social projects have the power to transform lives. After all, throughout my life, I have seen very well-planned initiatives.

They are focused on the real needs of a community, can open doors, create opportunities and, above all, restore dignity to those who need it most.

That is why I decided to write this article to share some thoughts on this topic, because I believe that this is a subject that affects us all.

The direct impact on communities

I have always been impressed by the impact that small gestures can have on vulnerable communities, and how they can transform people’s lives.

Social projects focused on education, health, job creation or professional training are often the only chance many people have to change their realities.

For example, imagine the impact of a computer class for someone who has never had contact with technology. It is not just a class – it is a gateway to the job market, an opportunity for personal and professional growth.

When I look at these initiatives, I realize that they create a positive cycle. An individual transformed by a social project impacts their family and, consequently, their community. It is a domino effect of change.

The power of empathy and collective engagement

For me, one of the most inspiring aspects of social projects is how they awaken empathy in people. Participating in a project is not just about helping others; it is about creating a genuine human connection.

It is about understanding someone’s pain and mobilizing to find solutions. I have participated in initiatives where the simple act of listening to the needs of the community made all the difference.

Many times, it is not about offering what we think is the best, but about building together, respecting the stories and experiences of each person. This collective construction is, for me, one of the greatest legacies of social projects.

Transformation that goes beyond those who receive

Something that has always struck me is how social projects transform not only those who benefit, but also those who get involved in them. Whether as a volunteer, donor or creator, the experience of participating is enriching.

I myself have learned a lot about resilience, courage and gratitude by listening to stories and sharing moments with people impacted by these initiatives.

It is as if, by donating our time or resources, we receive something even more valuable in return: the certainty that we are contributing to a better world.

I believe we can do more

When I reflect on the power of social projects, I see how much we still have to do. We don’t need grandiose initiatives to transform lives – a simple gesture can be the starting point.

And this motivates me to continue engaging in actions that promote social impact. Therefore, I leave you with an invitation: how about we reflect on how we can, individually or collectively, contribute to changing someone’s reality?

The transformation we seek in the world often begins with a small action on our part. And that action can be now!

I have always believed that learning goes far beyond the classroom and technical courses. It was on the mat, practicing Jiu-Jitsu, that I discovered valuable lessons that shaped the way I lead teams and face challenges on a daily basis.

That is why I like to say that Jiu-Jitsu, more than a martial art, is a true school of leadership and self-development.

And in this article, I want to share how this practice transformed me and how it can be a powerful ally in the development of leaders. I hope you enjoy it!

Resilience: getting up after every fall

In Jiu-Jitsu, defeat is a constant. Losing a position or being submitted is part of the process, but what really matters is the ability to get up, learn, and get back into the fight. This resilience is essential for leadership.

In difficult times, when we face rejection or obstacles, I remember that every mistake is an opportunity for growth.

As a leader, I adopted this “fail fast, learn fast” mentality, which helped me face challenges with more serenity and optimism.

Humility to learn from others

No matter how experienced you are in Jiu-Jitsu, there will always be someone with a better technique, a firmer grip or a more refined strategy. This taught me to value the exchange of knowledge and to recognize the importance of teamwork.

As a leader, I realize how essential it is to listen to others, learn from each team member and never assume that we already know everything. Humility creates an environment of continuous learning, which is fundamental for collective growth.

Planning and strategy under pressure

On the mat, every move needs to be calculated. It’s a game of chess where thinking two or three steps ahead can determine the outcome of a fight.

This ability to plan strategically, even in high-pressure situations, is one of the greatest lessons that Jiu-Jitsu has taught me.

I take this skill to the corporate world, where decisions need to be made calmly, even when faced with tight deadlines and uncertainty. Therefore, having a clear strategy, but knowing how to adapt, is a differentiator for any leader.

Emotional control: the key to balance

One of the first things I learned in Jiu-Jitsu is that losing emotional control is one of the greatest weaknesses. Anxiety and impulsiveness are powerful adversaries both on the mat and in leadership.

This practice taught me to stay calm, even in difficult situations, and to make decisions clearly. In the corporate environment, maintaining emotional balance inspires confidence in the team and helps to create a healthier and more productive culture.

Leadership that inspires by example

In Jiu-Jitsu, respect and discipline are not just words, but principles that guide each training session. At work, I realized that leading is not just giving orders, but acting with integrity, dedication and consistency.

Just as on the mat, where we inspire our partners through the effort we put in, in the corporate environment, an effective leader inspires his team by example.

Jiu-Jitsu taught me to be more resilient, strategic, humble and emotionally balanced. I believe that the best leaders are formed not only by the great challenges of life, but also by the daily practices that shape our character.

Therefore, the mat is a space for constant learning, which transforms not only the way we relate to others, but also how we view life.

Inclusion in higher education is not only a matter of social justice, but also of structural transformation in a society with historical inequalities like Brazil.

As CEO of SEDA College and someone who has experienced the opportunities provided by education, I firmly believe in the power of affirmative action as a driver of positive and lasting change.

That is why I decided to write this article as a way to explain a little about what I think about racial quotas in universities and how I think this is important to combat structural racism. I hope you enjoy it!

Reducing historical inequalities

Education has always been one of the main paths to social mobility.

However, many people from historically marginalized groups, such as black people, indigenous people and low-income people, face significant barriers to accessing and completing a higher education course.

That is why, in my view, affirmative action, such as racial and social quotas, are instruments to reduce these inequalities, ensuring that more people have the opportunity to enter universities and broaden their life prospects.

As a black man, I know that these policies go beyond numbers and percentages: they create real possibilities for those who might otherwise be left out of the education system.

Diversity that enriches everyone

More diverse environments are proven to be richer in innovation, creativity, and learning. In higher education, this means bringing a plurality of voices, stories, and perspectives into the classroom that, together, generate deeper debates and more complete reflections.

Affirmative action helps create this diversity, allowing universities to be more faithful reflections of the society in which they are inserted.

Students from different cultural and social backgrounds learn from each other, developing empathy and skills to deal with a diverse and globalized world.

A necessary step towards equity

Some argue that affirmative action is unfair, but we need to understand that equality is not the same as equity. Offering the same conditions to people who started from very different starting points does not solve the structural problem.

Affirmative action, on the other hand, recognizes these disparities and seeks to balance access to opportunities.

As an educator and leader, I see this as an essential step towards breaking cycles of exclusion and promoting a more just and truly meritocratic society — one where merit is not limited by each person’s initial living conditions.

Education as social transformation

Therefore, I believe that higher education plays a central role in social transformation, but this change does not happen automatically.

It is necessary to invest in inclusive policies, such as affirmative action, to ensure that more people can actively participate in this transformation.

By supporting these initiatives, I am reaffirming my commitment to a future in which access to education is a right for all, and not a privilege for a few. After all, when we expand opportunities for those who need it most, society as a whole advances.

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.