On Friday, we welcomed Leonardo from Fontales Favela in São Paulo, Brazil. For those unfamiliar, a favela is similar to a township here in Cape Town. He came through the Next Generation Service Exchange Programme (NGSE), thanks to Joke Young, Chair of NGSE District 9350.

At just 23 years old, Leonardo already holds an MBA and a qualification in International Relations. Guided by the values instilled by the strong women in his life—his late grandmother (a proud Rotarian), his mother, and his aunt who is still an active Rotarian—Leonardo is deeply passionate about civil society, youth empowerment, and community development. 

Over three months in Cape Town, he gained international experience and explored sustainable models for not-for-profit organisations, working closely with our club to review SICGH and Rotary Club of Waterfront initiatives.

His presentation, “BREAKING THE CYCLE: FOOD SECURITY, JOBS AND DIGNITY THROUGH A SUSTAINABLE ECOSYSTEM,” highlighted best practices from Brazil and mapped projects initiated and funded by both SICGH and the Rotary Club of Waterfront. Key insights emphasized the power of collaboration for greater impact, the strategic use of resources, and a focus on capacitation, job opportunities, and economic empowerment for youth and women.

Leonardo urged a shift from “doing to” or “doing for” communities towards “doing with”—ensuring children not only have access to learning resources but also the nutrition they need to thrive. The integrated ecosystem approach aims to restore dignity while supporting sustainable development through a coordinated, long-term strategy that positions Rotary to strengthen dignity, resilience and economic opportunity, especially for youth and women.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Leonardo for the energy, insight, and global perspective he has brought to our club. His work has sparked conversation — and momentum — toward a more sustainable model of community development.  Anyone wishing to learn more or participate in the next phase of this initiative is welcome to reach out to: Mymoena Ismail, Immediate Past President & Internationalisation.
(Five slides from Leorardo’s presentation are included below, relevant to his presentation.)