The 2025 European Jiu-Jitsu Championship was a remarkable event, full of challenges, victories and learning. For those who participated or followed it closely, it is clear that the lessons learned on the mat go far beyond the medals.

That is why today I decided to share the main lessons I took away from this transformative experience, in the hope of inspiring you to apply these teachings in your own journey, whether inside or outside the sport.

Discipline is the foundation of any achievement

One of the first things that jiu-jitsu teaches is the importance of discipline. From daily training to mental and physical preparation, every detail counts.

At the 2025 European Championship, it was clear that those who reached the podium were those who maintained an unwavering commitment to their training routine.

However, discipline is not just about going to the mat every day. It involves taking care of your diet, respecting rest and balancing other areas of your life. This lesson is universal: to achieve any goal, you need a clear plan and the consistency to execute it.

Defeats are also victories

In sports, as in life, things don’t always go as planned. At the European Championship, I experienced moments of frustration when facing extremely skilled opponents. However, each defeat brought with it a valuable gift: the opportunity to learn.

By analyzing what went wrong, I was able to identify areas for improvement and adjust my strategy. Defeats are, in fact, stepping stones to success. They test our resilience and force us to grow. In the end, losing is just one part of the process of evolution.

The importance of the team

As individual as jiu-jitsu may seem, it is impossible to grow without a team. My performance in the championship is a direct reflection of the support I received from my coaches, gym mates and family.

Having a team means having people who push you to be better, who share knowledge and offer emotional support in difficult times. This lesson makes me appreciate even more the relationships that build a solid foundation for any journey.

The value of mental preparation

On the mat, it’s not just the body that fights – the mind plays a crucial role. During the championship, I realized how much confidence and focus influence performance.

Moments of pressure can lead to nervousness, but that’s where the value of mental preparation comes in. Practicing meditation, visualizing positive scenarios and working on self-confidence made all the difference.

This lesson is a reminder that, often, it’s the mindset that defines the difference between success and failure.

Overcoming limits is a choice

Throughout the championship, there were times when I thought about giving up. Pain, fatigue and doubt arise, but the decision to continue depends on each one of us.

Overcoming limits is about challenging the inner voices that tell us we’re not capable. It’s about persisting, even when everything seems difficult. This lesson showed me that the real enemy is in our mind – and defeating it is the greatest victory.

Gratitude multiplies results

At the end of the championship, regardless of the result, I felt profound gratitude for everything I had experienced. Each opponent, each fight and each training session contributed to my evolution.

Being grateful broadens our perspective and helps us value progress. This lesson is a reminder that it is important to recognize progress, even if it seems small, because it is this that takes us to the top.

Experience is the greatest prize

In the end, trophies are just symbols. What really matters is the experience gained throughout the journey. Each training session, each fight and each moment of reflection builds a legacy that goes far beyond the mat.

Participating in the 2025 European Jiu-Jitsu Championship was an opportunity for personal and professional growth. I take with me not only improved techniques, but also values ​​that I will apply in all areas of life.

Implementing affirmative action in education companies, especially in English schools, is a fundamental initiative to promote racial equity and correct historical inequalities that affect the black population in Brazil.

These policies not only expand black people’s access to educational opportunities, but also enrich the learning environment with cultural diversity and varied perspectives.

The importance of affirmative action in education

Affirmative action is a targeted public policy that seeks to reduce political, social and economic inequalities between groups in a society.

They aim to promote the socioeconomic inclusion of populations that have historically been deprived of access to opportunities, such as the black population in Brazil.

In the educational context, these policies are essential to ensure that black students have equal access to quality educational institutions.

This is particularly relevant in English schools, where mastery of a second language can open doors to significant academic and professional opportunities.

Examples of affirmative action in English schools

Some language schools have adopted affirmative action measures to promote the inclusion of black students.

For example, scholarship programs aimed exclusively at black or low-income students have been implemented to facilitate access to English courses.

In addition, initiatives that seek to diversify the teaching staff by hiring black teachers contribute to representation and serve as inspiration for students.

Another approach is to adapt teaching materials to include diverse cultural references, valuing Afro-Brazilian culture and promoting a more inclusive learning environment.

These actions not only benefit black students, but also enrich the educational experience of all students, promoting mutual understanding and respect.

Benefits for education companies

The adoption of affirmative action brings multiple benefits to education companies.

In addition to fulfilling an important social role, these initiatives broaden the target audience of institutions, attracting students from different backgrounds and promoting a richer and more diverse learning environment.

Companies that invest in diversity tend to be more innovative and adaptable, as they incorporate multiple perspectives into their decision-making processes.

Furthermore, by promoting inclusion, these institutions strengthen their reputation and demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, which can be a competitive advantage in the education market.

As educators and administrators, it is our duty to promote inclusion and ensure that all students have equal access to learning opportunities.

When I decided to invest in my first startup, the word “resilience” was not yet part of my everyday vocabulary. Like many entrepreneurs, I started out full of enthusiasm, envisioning a path of victories and rapid growth.

However, I soon realized that the world of startups is, above all, a constant test of resistance, adaptability and learning.

The journey taught me that resilience is not just an abstract concept; it is a practical and essential virtue.

The beginning is not always glamorous

I thought that all it took was to see someone with an innovative idea to invest in the idea and see a quick financial return. I could not have been more wrong.

Reality has shown me that starting a startup is full of uncertainties and challenges. You have to deal with tight budgets, sleepless nights and, often, with the doubt of “will it work?”.

Resilience, in this context, means staying focused and determined, even when results take time to appear.

When the first “no’s” arrived, it was hard not to get discouraged. But I learned that each setback was an opportunity to improve, adjust, and move on.

Learning from mistakes is essential

One of the greatest lessons of resilience is understanding that mistakes don’t define who you are, but rather how you react to them. There were times when bad decisions made me lose money, time, and even business partners.

Instead of letting myself be paralyzed by the fear of making mistakes, I learned to see mistakes as part of the process. Each failure helped me refine my strategy and better understand my market. Resilience, here, means accepting mistakes as a strict but essential teacher.

Adapting is surviving

The startup market is like an unpredictable tide. What works today may become obsolete tomorrow. For me, resilience is also synonymous with adaptability.

During the pandemic, for example, I had to rethink a lot of things at SEDA College. And that’s when I started to envision teaching English online. That was a time when I had to deal with a true test of resilience.

I confess that these changes were not easy, but they were necessary. That’s why I say that being resilient means not sticking rigidly to a plan when reality demands flexibility.

Strength comes from a support network

I used to believe that entrepreneurship was a lonely journey, but I discovered that resilience is also about asking for help.

Friends and mentors were essential in the most difficult moments. They reminded me of my purpose when I myself began to doubt it.

So, if you are starting your journey as an entrepreneur, surround yourself with people who believe in you and your project. This support network can be the strength you need to keep going.

Resilience is the key to persevering

Starting a startup is a challenging and, at the same time, incredibly rewarding experience. For those who want to embark on this journey, my biggest tip is: cultivate resilience.

It will be your anchor in times of storm and the fuel that will carry you forward when everything seems difficult. Remember: success in a startup does not come only from a brilliant idea, but from the ability to persist, adapt and learn along the way.

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?