By Bianca de Riccio | Institutional Relations Manager
Vaga Lume's mission is to empower children and young people from rural communities in the Amazon by promoting access to books and reading. Established in 2001 as a one-off project, the initiative has evolved into a continuous program to meet the growing needs of these communities. Over its 23 years of operation, the organization has built strong connections with local volunteers and now works in 95 rural communities across 23 municipalities.
One of Vaga Lume's key initiatives is the Network Program, an intercultural dialogue initiative that aims to broaden the worldview of young people from community libraries in the Brazilian Legal Amazon and those from the city of São Paulo. This program facilitates the sharing of knowledge about their identities and territories. The methodology is designed to reduce distances, break stereotypes, present new perspectives, and empower the youth to take on leadership roles in transforming their own realities.
As part of the "Help Vaga Lume Protect the Amazon" campaign, one of the key highlights in 2024 was the meeting of adolescents in São Paulo. In October 2024, the second meeting of adolescents from schools and organizations in São Paulo took place, bringing together those involved in exchanges with young people from Amazon communities. A total of 170 adolescents from São Paulo participated, showcasing how they have developed a deeper understanding of the Network Program and gained greater insight into themselves.
The event was filled with discussions and learning on key issues such as empowering women and addressing droughts affecting some Amazon communities. Additionally, a cultural presentation offered a platform for participants to express their heritage and identity through a variety of performances.
In addition to the meeting, the Network Program was also honored in 2024 with a prestigious award. Vaga Lume has been awarded the Human Rights and Diversity Seal three times in the category of Childhood and Adolescence for Network Program, in 2018, 2023, and 2024. This recognition is part of the Human Rights and Diversity Seal Program, which emerged from the understanding that labor market integration is crucial for promoting equality, allowing individuals to live with dignity, respect, and a strong sense of citizenship. In response, the Municipal Secretariat for Human Rights and Citizenship has engaged in this important dialogue by recognizing best practices in diversity and inclusion across public, private, and third-sector organizations.
In 2025, the Program will continue its mission with new communities in the Amazon, facilitating exchanges and collaborations with schools and organizations in São Paulo, including new meetings and experiences in both São Paulo and the Amazon.
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