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

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

1. Understand what purpose means to you

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

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

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

2. Reflect on your passions and talents

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

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

3. Align your values ​​with your choices

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

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

4. Find meaning in the present

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

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

5. Seek out inspiring connections

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

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

6. Accept that purpose evolves

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

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

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

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

The challenge as a starting point

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

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

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

Growth mindset: the power of learning

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

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

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

The power of human connections

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

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

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

Transforming challenges into purpose

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

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

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

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

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

The value of international experience

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

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

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

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

International education and career transformation

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

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

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

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

The role of institutions in the formation of global citizens

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

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

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

A final thought

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

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

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.