When Transformation Becomes Impact – Part III

2026 has been about consolidating everything that has happened so far. Riquelme, along with making himself available for the mentoring and skills project offered to support Instituto Solidare in other ways.

Reflecting on the importance of practising the sport Capoeira in his life, he wanted to pass this on and impact the lives of children in the Coqueiral district. His reflection was simple, for a young person to come and take part in the professional courses offered by the Mentoring and Skills project, they needed the desire to want to build a better future for themselves.

The young man commented, “I have practised Capoeira since I was one, my father used to do it and I would go along with him, I became a student at 3 years old. There I learnt to respect the rules, to believe in myself and to learn to overcome difficulties. I had many friends who were going on the wrong path, and I know that Capoeira helped me not to follow along with them.”

Following from that he thought, “I wanted to combine something useful with something enjoyable. Instituto Solidare has children and space, why not make the most of this opportunity?” With permission from his Capoeira teacher, he began to instruct children and young people twice a week. Through this they have developed physically, mentally, and socially.

 Now Riquelme has transformed his dreams into reality. The mentoring and skills project not only has been able to provide professional training for a young person, but also transformed him into a young leader who demonstrates empathy and love in all he does.

This is Part Three of Riquelme’s story. If you haven’t already, we invite you to read Part One and Part Two and discover how his journey of transformation has now become a journey of impact.

• Part I — Meet Riquelme 

• Part II — The Cycle of Transformation 

  
  

• Written by Eduarda Teixeira