Carolina Suarez Visbal, CEO Latimpacto
During months of meticulous planning, we worked tirelessly to make sure that the second edition of the Impact Minds: Standing Together Conference was an exceptional event in every way, surpassing even the outstanding previous version. The warm welcome of nearly 600 people, 250 of whom were Brazilians, who received us in Rio de Janeiro with open arms, makes an amazing parallel with the symbolism of the imposing Christ the Redeemer, the iconic monument of the Rio de Janeiro city. During the first few days, despite the unusual weather, with persistent rain and the sun barely peeking through, nothing could undermine the determination and enthusiasm of the Impact Minds who came together with an unwavering willingness to be united in this extraordinary event, which generated new connections and opened up new opportunities to invest in our region.
Continuing in the tradition of our first conference, we took a deep dive into a rich diversity of contexts and realities in and around Rio de Janeiro. Ten unique learning experiences led us on a journey that ranged from compelling situations to moments of inspiration. In each encounter, we discovered amazing stories, from the past that gave birth to this city and nation, to the new business practices of new generations of Brazilians. We extend our warmest greetings to the teams that made the visits to: Banco da Providêcia, Spectaculu, BNDES, Fiocruz, Sinal do Vale, Instituto Terra de Preservação Ambiental, Agua do Rio, Cidade do Samba, Small Africa and Quilombo Cafundá Astrogilda.
Every significant event must have a starting point, and the Impact Minds: Standing Together Conference was no exception. The opening cocktail at the Museu do AmanhãA truly wonderful venue, it served as the perfect setting for connections to begin to blossom amidst an atmosphere filled with joy and enthusiasm. It was a spectacle in which Latinos, with their contagious energy and unwavering passion, led the celebration and managed to inspire those who came from distant lands with the unique joy that characterizes our region. This inaugural experience was more than just a celebration; it was an open invitation to forge unions and deep bonds among all Impact Minds, regardless of their geographic origin.
Weaving Connections and Transforming the Future: Our Commitment to Inclusion and Empowerment
The start of our days of panels, workshops, sharing collectives and inspirational conversations reflected our deep commitment to placing people at the center of impact. From mobilizing capital in an increasingly interconnected world, inspired by the success of our sister networks such as EVPA, AVPN, AVPA and now with the GAIN platform, to addressing critical issues such as racial inclusion, gender diversity and women's empowerment.
"There is a need to open spaces and places for black, indigenous and impoverished people who represent their communities, who represent diversity, having the intention to seek them out, include them and support them in their work."
Tom Mendes, Instituto Identidades do Brasil
Panels and discussions transcended the surface, exploring issues of equity and social justice in critical areas such as mental health, combating racism and reducing social inequality. Individual responsibility was also highlighted, with a call to recognize our role in today's challenges and to actively engage in the search for solutions.
Similarly, with the presence of the Presidents of the Latin American Development Bank and the Brazilian Development Bank, Sergio Diaz-Granados and Aloizio Mercandante, we were able to highlight the fundamental role they play in the impact ecosystem, providing catalytic capital resources, facilitating financial innovation and collaboration with philanthropic and private actors. Working in an articulated manner, for example through blended finance structures, these organizations have the potential to mobilize private resources for the same purpose. Their greater willingness to take risks and work with longer terms allows them to reduce the risk and cost to private investors, thereby maximizing the amount of resources contributed and the generation of positive social and environmental impact.
We highlight, on the other hand, the exceptional conversation on the role of women in the impact ecosystem, exploring diverse practices and perspectives from across the region. This talk was not only extremely enriching, but also essential to continue redefining and recognizing the immense commitment of women in a variety of contexts and scenarios.
As part of the closing ceremony of this first day of panels, the awarding of the Women's Empowerment Award, granted by the Bayer Foundation, to five exceptional leaders who, with their creativity, initiative and tireless dedication, are making a significant contribution to social change through their startups. Listening to these inspiring women was a real delight, and it filled us with joy to see how such wonderful, high-impact ideas have the power to transform entire communities. This recognition not only celebrates their achievements, but also reminds us of the importance of supporting and empowering women in their quest for a better and more equitable world.
Brazil: An Evolving Impact Ecosystem - Honoring the Legacy and Shaping the Future
Fully immersing Brazil in the impact ecosystem led us to a deep reflection on the challenges and opportunities in this culturally rich and diverse country. We recognized the need to address areas where there is still some way to go, focusing especially on the vital role of women and Afro-Brazilian communities in creating meaningful change. During our discussions, we remembered and honored those who are no longer with us, as in the heartfelt tribute paid by the entire community to Bernadete Pacifico, a Quilombola leader from Bahia, whose tragic murder on August 17 shocked everyone.
These legacies, like that of Bernadete Pacifico, are beacons of inspiration that light the way for current and future generations, urging us to continue building the foundations for social impact in a country that harbors tremendous potential for positive change. As we move forward, we remember and learn from those who have gone before us, committing ourselves to carry on their legacy with determination and resilience, with the firm conviction that a brighter future is possible for Brazil and the entire world.
Fostering social change for positive impact
On the third day of our conference, we witnessed an important conversation in collaboration with Skoll Foundation CEO Don Gips and Paula Moreno, founder and president of Manos Visibles, where they discussed the essential role of private and public investors in driving social change. Moreno and Gips shared valuable experiences and perspectives to generate a positive impact in our communities.
In addition, in collaboration with the IDB LAB and Coca Cola Latin America, we had the privilege of presenting to the Latimpacto community and the attendees of Impact Minds: Standing Together the exciting Green Catalytic Fund. This innovative initiative aims to generate significant impact on early stage solutions related to decarbonization and the pursuit of net zero carbon neutrality. Although this fund has a regional focus, it pays special attention to the Amazon, recognizing the critical importance of this region for our area and for the entire planet. This initiative demonstrates the commitment of Latimpacto and its partners to protecting our environment and promoting a more sustainable future.
Another of the main points of the day's agenda was to give place to the voices of the Pan-Amazonian communities, which turned out to be an essential moment of reflection on the importance of empowering indigenous communities and peasant peoples in the Amazon, as well as protecting this region as an invaluable point of encounter and coexistence between human beings, other living beings and nature.
The urgency of designing strategies to support the quality of life and territorial management of these communities was highlighted, especially in the face of threats such as deforestation, forest fires, cattle ranching and the lack of local opportunities and infrastructure. Multilingual communication and education emerged as fundamental pillars to empower these communities, ensuring their active participation and rights in the decisions that affect their territory. It was emphasized that the impact of local work in the Amazon transcends borders and that the preservation and care of this region remains a global responsibility.
Ultimately, the need to protect and empower indigenous and local communities in the Amazon was reaffirmed as a cornerstone for ensuring a sustainable and equitable future for all its inhabitants.
"It is important to understand what we are fighting for, as our work will be local but the impacts will be global."
Angela Mendes, Chico Mendes Committee
United for positive global change! The call from Latin America
Under a regional focus with global projection, the conference culminated in a masterful way with the inspiring words of Natalye Paquin, Director of the Rockefeller Foundation, who provided an exemplary closing to three days of enriching dialogue. In her speech, Natalye highlighted the prevailing challenges that require immediate action to change our world, underscoring the pivotal role that all of Latin America plays in this process.
He urged us to strengthen initiatives like the ones we were forging during the conference and expressed his deep appreciation to the Latimpacto members, team and board for providing the space. His message reminded us that together, with a unified commitment, we have the power and responsibility to drive meaningful and positive change on our planet.
We express our deepest gratitude to Brazil, to Latimpacto's associate members in this country, as well as to the event's production and organization team, whose hard work made it possible to bring together more than 580 Impact Minds during these inspiring three days. We value and celebrate the collaboration and spirit of unity that filled every moment of the conference.
As of now, we are eagerly preparing for what will be our third conference: "Impact Minds: Standing Together" in Oaxaca, which will take place September 9-11, 2024. We look forward to another event full of learning, connection and action for positive social impact in our region and beyond.
This conference is a milestone. The Latimpacto team does not stop and will continue to give its best. even more motivated, with all the support received, to mobilize more capital for impact.
