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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The power of curiosity and openness to new things

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

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

Learning to Share: A Journey of Collective Growth

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

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

Professional and Personal Development: An Interconnected Cycle

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

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

Commitment to the future

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

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

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

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

Education as a tool for personal and social growth

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

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

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

Education as a means of reducing inequalities

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

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

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

Education and global transformation

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

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

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

The Importance of Accessibility and Innovation in Education

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deepening the discussion: what is structural racism?

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

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

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

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

The importance of affirmative action

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Challenges that go beyond the mat

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

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

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

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

Why I support social projects like this

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

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

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

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

A transformation that goes beyond medals

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

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

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

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

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

I hope you enjoy it!

The basis of mutual respect

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

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

The importance of active listening

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

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

Recognition: small actions with a big impact

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

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

Flexibility and trust

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

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

Leadership by example

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

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

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

Dreams are the fuel that drives us to move forward, even when reality seems difficult.

But what separates those who make their dreams come true from those who give up? The answer is simple: perseverance and the decision not to let the dream die, no matter what happens.

I deeply believe that we all have the ability to achieve our goals, as long as we keep that flame burning.

Reflecting a little on this, I decided to share some thoughts on how we can nurture our dreams until they become reality. I hope you enjoy!

The power of clear vision

Every dream starts with a vision. Being clear about where you want to go is the first step to turning that dream into something tangible. When your vision is clear, it works like a map that guides your actions and decisions.

Whether it’s creating a business, achieving a promotion or achieving a personal goal, visualize the final destination. It’s this clarity that will help you keep moving forward, even when obstacles appear.

Keeping this vision doesn’t mean that everything will go as planned, but it does mean that you will be prepared to adjust along the way. Life doesn’t always follow a linear script, but persistence in moving forward will make all the difference.

Obstacles are part of the journey

On any journey, obstacles will appear. It could be financial hardship, lack of support, or even internal doubts about your own abilities.

We all face challenges, but what really matters is how we choose to deal with them. See obstacles as learning opportunities, a chance to grow and develop.

Difficult times teach us resilience. They are what prepare us for the days of victory, and more than that, they teach us that giving up is never the best option.

As someone who has faced countless challenges on the mat and in life, I know that overcoming is what shapes winners.

Continuous learning is essential

Never stop learning. Regardless of where you are in your career or in life, there is always something new to discover.

Continuous learning keeps us sharp, helps us evolve, and gives us the flexibility we need to adapt to change. Investing in yourself, whether through courses, reading, or new experiences, keeps your dreams alive.

The ability to reinvent yourself over time is one of the greatest advantages of those who keep their dreams focused. Remember, every small action towards learning is one more step towards achieving what you want so much.

Keep the dream alive

Getting there is not a matter of luck, but of consistency. Sometimes, the journey may seem long and the dream distant.

However, it is in these moments that you must remember the reason why you started. Why is this dream important to you? What does it represent in your life?

Keep your purpose clear and be faithful to it. Cultivating this motivation every day will make you overcome difficulties and stay focused, even when the road seems challenging.

Believe me, success is often closer than it seems, and only those who persist enough can achieve it.

I recently won third place in the European Jiu-Jitsu Championship, and many people have asked me: “How do you manage to balance sports and work?”.

This is a question that always comes up, especially because the routine of a CEO is intense and demands dedication. However, this medal does not represent just a sporting achievement.

It represents the way I approach Jiu-Jitsu, which for me is more than a sport; it is a philosophy of life that is directly reflected in the way I face professional challenges.

The mat as a mirror of professional life

When I am on the mat, I am in an environment where I am constantly tested. There, there is no room for distractions, only focus on the present moment and the willingness to test myself against stronger opponents.

This process of facing someone who often seems invincible helps me to better understand the challenges I face in the business world.

On the mat, just like at work, there are more experienced opponents, with skills that, at first glance, seem unattainable.

This experience made me realize that victory is not just about defeating the opponent, but about facing the fear of making mistakes. When I’m in a fight, I need to make quick decisions and accept that mistakes are part of the learning process.

In the workplace, the scenario is similar. Many times, we are faced with challenges that seem bigger than us, but we need to go for it, without fear of making mistakes, and learn from each situation.

Constant overcoming and pressure management

Jiu-Jitsu taught me to deal with pressure in a very practical way. During a fight, there is an intense emotional and physical burden. I feel the weight of responsibility, the expectation and, of course, the fear of failure.

However, this pressure is what drives me to move forward and seek solutions, whether it’s a submission or a new approach at work. Constant overcoming on and off the mat strengthens me.

In my professional life, this pressure manifests itself in different ways: deadlines, goals, difficult decisions. However, just like in sports, it is possible to train the mind to face these moments with calm and rationality.

Sport taught me to find emotional balance even in adverse situations, which is essential for making strategic decisions at work.

Lessons in persistence and adaptation

In Jiu-Jitsu, there is no single formula for winning. Every fight is different, and adaptation is the key to success. At work, this same lesson applies. Every project, client or challenge requires a unique approach.

I learned to be flexible, to find creative solutions and to understand that I will not always have total control of the situation. The important thing is to be willing to adapt the strategy according to the scenario.

The third place medal at the European championship was a recognition of hard work and persistence, but also a reminder that the journey is continuous.

Just like on the mat, in the professional environment, success is built on the ability to adapt, learn from mistakes and keep moving forward, even in the face of obstacles.

Balancing work and passion

People often see sports as a distraction or something separate from professional life, but for me, Jiu-Jitsu is a pillar that keeps me balanced. Sports teach me discipline, focus and resilience, skills that I apply daily at work.

In addition, it works as an escape valve, allowing me to release accumulated stress and return to work with more clarity and energy.

That’s why, instead of seeing sports as an additional challenge to balance with work, I see Jiu-Jitsu as a tool that helps me be better in both areas.

Every time I face an opponent on the mat, I am, in a way, training for the challenges I will face at the office the next day.

In our professional journey, we often come across challenges and unexpected situations. Just like rocks on the road, many opportunities are available to us, but it is easy to stumble over them or even ignore them.

Success is not just about recognizing these rocks, but about learning to see them as part of the process of growth and evolution.

Reflecting on this, I decided to write this article to explore how adversity and opportunities, even when they seem like obstacles, can propel us to a new level of success and fulfillment. I hope you enjoy it!

Stumbling as a lever for growth

We often stumble over opportunities because we are too focused on the immediate, on day-to-day tasks or on the pressures of the moment. When we face a problem or a difficult situation, we may feel like it is just an obstacle.

However, this “rock” may be exactly what we need to grow. Stumbling makes us stop, reflect and reevaluate.

It can give us a new perspective on what is happening around us. How many times has a situation that seemed negative at first turned out to be the turning point for something great?

Stumbling can be painful, but if we see it as an opportunity to learn, we can use it as a lever to reach new heights.

Perspective changes everything

When we look at the obstacles in our path, we often see them as obstacles. However, the way we see these “obstacles” makes all the difference.

If we can change our perspective and see each challenge as an opportunity in disguise, our approach changes completely.

For example, a difficulty at work can be seen as a chance to develop new skills. An opportunity missed in the past can teach us valuable lessons that we can apply in future decisions.

So, the key is to develop a growth mindset, where each obstacle is a chance to improve.

Turning challenges into opportunities

The big difference between those who thrive and those who stagnate is not the number of obstacles they face, but how they respond to them. Bumps along the way are inevitable, but they can be transformed into stepping stones.

As CEO of SEDA, I know that challenges are part of the journey of any company or project. But it is how we react to them that defines our success.

Resilience, the ability to adapt and the willingness to learn from setbacks are what transform these moments into great opportunities.

Preparation to take advantage of bumps along the way

Tripping over a bump can also alert us to the need to be more attentive to what is ahead of us.

Constant preparation, whether through knowledge, networking or personal development, puts us in an advantageous position to recognize and seize the opportunities that arise.

Taking advantage of opportunities means being ready for them. This means always being open to learning, willing to take risks and prepared to adjust the route when necessary.

Every bump in the road can be a chance to innovate, rethink our strategies and become better leaders.

Starting a business in another country is a transformative experience, full of opportunities, but also challenges.

When I decided to found SEDA College in Dublin, I came across obstacles that, at first glance, seemed insurmountable. That’s why I decided to write this article to talk about the 3 main challenges I faced at the beginning of my journey.

1. Cultural and communication barriers

When I decided to open SEDA College, I knew that cultural differences would be a relevant factor, but I had no idea how much this would impact day-to-day operations.

Social norms, customer expectations and even the way of communicating in a business environment were different from what I was used to in Brazil.

A clear example was the need to adapt customer service. The Irish value punctuality, clarity and informality in contact, while in Brazil, a more personal and close touch is generally more appreciated.

I had to quickly learn to adapt my approach to gain the trust of the local public and integrate into the Irish education market.

2. Bureaucracy and local regulations

Another significant challenge was dealing with local bureaucracy and regulations, which are very different from what I was familiar with in Brazil.

The process of opening a business in Ireland required a series of documents, authorizations and legal adjustments that often left me feeling lost.

For example, adapting SEDA College to the standards of the Irish education system and ensuring compliance with all regulations was a long and complex process.

It took me a while to understand how the requirements for hiring teachers, certifying the courses offered and obtaining the licenses needed to operate as a language and exchange school worked.

3. Building a network of contacts

Starting a business in another country without an established network of contacts was one of the biggest challenges I faced.

In Brazil, I had a solid professional circle, but in Ireland I had to build a new network of partners, suppliers and collaborators from scratch. To overcome this challenge, I actively involved myself in local events, education fairs and business forums.

Furthermore, I realized the importance of teaming up with other companies and entrepreneurs who already had experience in the Irish market, which facilitated my understanding of local practices and helped me form strategic partnerships.

Building this network was essential for the expansion and consolidation of SEDA College as a reference in the sector.

Final considerations

As you can see, starting a business in another country, as I discovered when I founded SEDA College in Dublin, is a process that requires resilience, adaptation and constant learning.

Overcoming cultural barriers, dealing with local bureaucracy and building a solid network of contacts were challenges that, although complex, taught me valuable lessons. Today, these challenges are part of SEDA’s history and my growth as an entrepreneur.

Life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes, we plan something with so much care, invest time, energy and effort, but the result doesn’t turn out as we expected.

And you know what? That’s okay. The key to living in peace, no matter what happens, is to develop gratitude.

Yes, even for things that didn’t work out. It may seem strange at first, but this practice has the power to transform your life and the way you face challenges.

Learning from mistakes

When something doesn’t go as planned, it’s natural to feel frustrated or even disappointed. However, every mistake or obstacle carries with it a valuable lesson.

Instead of focusing on what went wrong, stop and think: “What can I learn from this?” Challenges are often the best teachers. Through them, we grow, gain more clarity about our paths and become more resilient.

Being thankful for what didn’t work out is recognizing that every mistake is an opportunity disguised as wisdom. Over time, you will realize that many of your “failures” were actually the foundation for future successes.

Making room for the new

When something doesn’t work, it is also a sign that the universe is making room for the new. Sometimes, we insist so much on one path that we fail to see other possibilities.

By being grateful for what didn’t work out, you are telling the universe that you are ready to receive new opportunities, new learnings and new directions.

It may be that the job you wanted so much wasn’t for you because there is something even better on your way.

Or that relationship that ended may have been the end of a cycle, but the beginning of something much more meaningful. Gratitude makes you let go of something that was not aligned with your true purpose, allowing the new to arrive.

Strengthening resilience

Life will never be a linear path. We will fall, get up and move forward many times. The practice of being grateful even for what didn’t work out is one of the best exercises to strengthen resilience.

When you are grateful for your setbacks, you are acknowledging that you are capable of getting back up and continuing, regardless of the circumstances. This develops a mindset of perseverance and optimism.

Over time, you will see that it is possible to get through difficult times with more serenity, because you understand that they are part of your journey and contribute to your growth.

By embracing gratitude, even for difficult times, you free yourself from the weight of frustration and make room for new paths. Remember: every obstacle is an opportunity for growth, and every end is the beginning of something new.

So, whenever something doesn’t go as planned, take a deep breath, be grateful, and move forward with confidence that the best is yet to come.