Wellbeing, Art,
and Sustainability
Festival

Cacau Rhoden is a director and screenwriter who began his career in the entertainment industry at the age of 15 in the 1990s. He started working in television productions, commercials, and films. Before directing his own films, he gained extensive experience as an assistant director, collaborating with renowned directors on national and international productions.

He directed short films such as “A Cega” (1994), “Infinitamente Maio” (2001), “Meninos de Areia” (2005), “Gotas” (2005), “Who? Walls and Bridges” (2015), and “Food, Funk and Favela” (2023). His first feature film, “Tarja Branca – A Revolução que Faltava” (2014), won the Best Documentary award at the Toronto Festival.

Among his most recent works are the feature film “Nunca Me Sonharam” (2017), which won Best Documentary at the Los Angeles Festival and was screened at the United Nations headquarters in New York, and the documentary series “Corações & Mentes – escolas que transformam” (2020), aired on the GNT channel, both produced by Maria Farinha Filmes. In October 2023, he premiered his latest feature film, “Quantos dias. Quantas noites”, at the Rio Festival.

Mirian Dina dos Santos Oliveira, known as Itá Mirim, is a Tupi-Guarani indigenous leader (Morubixaba). She is an educator at Aldeia Tabaçu Reko Ypy, which she co-founded. Her commitment is to preserving Nhandereko and Indigenous Love, guiding and preparing the community to fight for indigenous rights and ensure public policies that preserve and strengthen indigenous cultural identity.

As a public school teacher and a pedagogue with a degree from USP, Mirian is also an actress and singer, using theater and music as educational tools even before completing her pedagogy degree.

Moreover, she is a cultural producer and researcher, organizing cultural events and activities in her community with a focus on community-based tourism at Aldeia Tabaçu Reko Ypy. Mirian has had a diverse career as an actress, participating in various commercials for brands like Guaraná Antarctica, Ynalapa Juice, Sagatiba, Samsung Galaxy S4, Hyundai, and in the Brazilian feature film “O Fim da Linha.” She is the producer of the Tataruçu Festival – “Sacred Fire” and works in indigenous consultancy, pedagogical coordination, art and culture, sound design, and all phases of production.

She participated in the project “Vem Comigo Episode 25 – Aldeia Tabaçu Reko Ypy” and produced the “Tupi Guarani Indigenous Culture” exhibition for Companhia Fábrica São Paulo, supported by PROAC. Mirian also produced and directed music videos in partnership with Kiloa Maracatu de Santos and was the art director for a documentary on environmental racism.

Marco Schultz is a dedicated teacher and mentor of spirituality, with over 35 years of study and practice in yoga, meditation, philosophy, psychology, and comparative religion. He holds degrees in Physical Education, Exercise Science, and Literature from California State University, San Diego, and has specialized in self-knowledge with teachers from various traditions in India and other Eastern and Western cultures.

With a broad, ecumenical, and transdisciplinary approach, Marco delivers teachings in a profound, simple, and integrative manner. His primary mission is to spread ‘self-awareness,’ encompassing the spiritual and integral aspects of the human condition.

Since 1997, Marco Schultz has been coordinating Simplesmente Yoga and leading groups on pilgrimage journeys around the world, exploring sacred sites and providing transformative experiences. In Brazil, he travels extensively, offering courses, retreats, and satsangs that combine meditation, chanting of mantras, and teachings, promoting integral human development and spiritual connection.

Additionally, Marco is the co-producer of the acclaimed documentary ‘Eu Maior’ and the CDs and DVD ‘Simplesmente Satsang – Cantos e Mantras.’ His integrity and dedication continue to inspire and impact lives.

Nathalia Manso is an Ecotuner (Facilitator of Nature Reconnection), consultant, and facilitator of learning and regenerative transformation processes. For 10 years, she has been leading collective processes of human and relational development.

She guides immersive journeys, courses, and trainings focused on reconnection and awakening consciousness for regenerative leadership. Nathalia holds an International Certification in Applied Ecopsychology (IES), a specialization in Design for Regeneration (Gaia Education), and a postgraduate degree in Cooperation Pedagogy.

She founded the initiatives Eu Natureza and Regenerativa, supporting change agents, leaders, and teams in incorporating new ways of being, thinking, and relating that generate transformations and possibilities for more prosperous and life-centered futures. Nathalia is a facilitator of the Work that Reconnects, hosts experiences in Deep Ecology, Forest Bathing, and sensory experiences that awaken ecological belonging and promote more ethical and responsible action in the world.

She is a fellow of the Regenerative Leadership Journey (Regenerators), part of the Global Hub of the Inner Development Goals, and a member of the leadership community of Climate Reality Brazil.

Dra. Raquel Tatar has a passion for applied science and meaningful work. This passion has led her to spend over a decade exploring different facets of stress coping, including proactive coping, collective traumas, and longitudinal stressors. Much of her work has involved measuring the seemingly immeasurable, from scientific studies on coping myths to educational program outcomes.

She is committed to bringing science to life through evidence-based interventions and, unsurprisingly, evaluating their results. Dr. Tatar also firmly believes that rebuilding public trust in science is crucial for alleviating many of today’s global issues.

Before becoming the Chief Scientific Officer and Chief Operating Officer at HMI, Raquel worked at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health as the Director of Evaluation and Analysis. She is also the co-founder of Positus Provider and CFO of the Robbu Group.

Dr. Ricardo Ghelman, MD, PhD, holds a Postdoctoral degree in Neurosciences from the Federal University of São Paulo – UNIFESP. He is a pediatrician and pediatric oncologist, and the founding president of the Brazilian Academic Consortium for Integrative Health (CABSIN), the Brazilian chapter of the International Society of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine Research (ISCMR).

He serves as a Consultant Member for the World Health Organization and the Americas Network of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine / PAHO / WHO. Dr. Ghelman is also the Brazilian Ambassador for the Society of Integrative Oncology (SIO) and a member of the Research Group of the Medical Investigation Laboratory focusing on phytotherapeutics at the Hospital das Clínicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP).

He earned a master’s degree in comparative anatomy from USP, a PhD in medicinal plant toxicology, and a postdoctoral degree in pain and Anthroposophy from the Neuroscience Program at UNIFESP. Dr. Ghelman is a pioneer of Integrative Pediatrics at the University of São Paulo, President of the Department of Integrative Medicine for Children and Adolescents at the São Paulo Pediatric Society, and the clinical director of the Ghelman Integrative Medicine Institute.

Rodrigo Alvarez is the managing partner at Mobiliza, a consulting firm specializing in fundraising strategies and institutional development for the third sector. He holds a degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Fundraising from FGV/Indiana Fundraising School. As a senior professional with a 30-year history in fundraising and management of Brazilian and international non-profit organizations, he has extensive experience in these fields. Prior to Mobiliza, he was the founder and vice president of ABCR (Brazilian Fundraisers Association), the Latin America representative of the British organization The Resource Alliance – a global network of fundraising and philanthropy – and the consulting director at IDIS, an organization representing the CAF (Charities Aid Foundation) in Brazil.

In addition to leading Mobiliza, Alvarez is a member of the Movement for a Donation Culture in Brazil and a former advisor to AIESEC Brazil, TETO, and the BIS Fund.

Silvia Morais, is the Country Director for Synergos in Brazil, with over 25 years of experience in the third sector, specializing in strategy, innovation, and partnerships across Latin America. As a consultant for foundations, institutes, NGOs, and governments, she has collaborated with Brazilian ministries to transform educational technologies into public policies.Formerly the CEO of the Credit Suisse Institute and the Brazilian Association for Financial Education, Silvia led initiatives in education and financial inclusion. She has also held roles at Natura, HSBC Bank, and IDIS, and has taught at SENAC University Center. Currently, she serves on the boards of the Amor Horizontal Foundation and Colméia. Silvia holds a degree in Public Relations, a master’s degree in Management and Innovation, and a postgraduate degree in Nonprofit Management.

Tamara Nanni Camargo holds a degree in Civil Engineering from the State University of Campinas. Her academic journey also took her to the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (USA), where she specialized in Entrepreneurship. She had the privilege of participating in an immersion program in the field of Social Business through a program at the Yunus Centre in Bangladesh, under the guidance of Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Professor Muhammad Yunus.

Her professional trajectory spans seven years of experience as a workshop facilitator on topics such as empathy, sustainability, environmental education, systemic thinking, and social impact businesses. She is currently part of the Social Innovation Laboratory at Facens, where she collaborates in the development of activities to offer students a more humanized, ethical, and regenerative professional education. She also actively participates in the Sustainability Committee at Facens.

In 2023, she began her master’s degree in the Graduate Program in Environmental Sciences at UNESP/Sorocaba, where she studies how Environmental Education is manifesting in different educational institutions.

In this one-hour session, we will explore some clowning techniques to envision the potential of belonging and self-regeneration with oneself, others, and the environment. Through games and playful activities, we aim to reclaim the senses of the body, spontaneity, and (childlike?) curiosity, considering the role of enchantment in pedagogical and social transformation practices.

Daniel Reis Plá: Actor, clown, meditation instructor, and Associate Professor at the Federal University of Santa Maria, specializing in Theatrical Interpretation in the Department of Performing Arts. He earned his PhD in Arts from UNICAMP, focusing on Buddhist meditation and its connections to actor training.

He also completed postdoctoral research on the same topic at the University of Huddersfield (UK) under the supervision of Professors Frank Chamberlain and Deborah Middleton. He coordinates the Tradere research group, which explores the relationships between performing arts and contemplative practices, and more recently, the potential of art as a factor for social transformation.

Daniel is the editor of the journal Mindfulness and Performance (UK) and a member of the editorial board of the Centro de Artes e Letras journal (CAL-UFSM). He is a member of ABRACE (Brazilian Association of Research and Graduate Studies in Performing Arts) and the Wellbeing Higher Education Network (WHEN), part of the Wellbeing Project, an international network dedicated to university well-being, currently comprising over one hundred institutions. Within WHEN, he participates in the Wellbeing Arts and Contemplative Pedagogy working groups.

Tai Chi Chuan – Prof. Heitor K. Yokomizo: Graduated in Systems Analysis from Fatec-SP, with postgraduate studies in Pedagogy, Higher Education Didactics, Quantum Physics Applied to Health, and Quantum Therapy and Health.

His training in Tai Chi Chuan began in 1988 with systematic learning at the Wu San Dji Tao Association of Tai Chi Chuan, Kung-Fu, and Oriental Arts Studies. He received formal certification as a teacher in 1993 from Professor Fernando Hashimoto.

Heitor has been involved in cultural and sports activities related to Tai Chi Chuan since 1991, giving lectures, participating in meetings, and offering private lessons. He has taught at major clubs such as Alphaville Tennis Club and participated in events at Hebraica, Paulistano, and various national and multinational companies. Currently, he teaches at spaces dedicated to holistic health, provides private lessons, and supports advanced students. He is also dedicated to written and visual promotion, maintaining websites about Tai Chi Chuan and related interests.

Heitor combines Tai Chi Chuan practice with energetic therapies, as they are integral to the healing process. He encourages its practice for anyone needing cognitive and intellectual improvement or maintenance, as it is highly beneficial for a better life and any creative or professional activity.

Jussara Borges built her career as a Project Manager and was part of the first group of women to join the Brazilian Navy, where she worked on research and technology development projects in the nuclear field.

After completing her professional cycle in the Armed Forces, she transitioned to the field of human development, becoming a Yoga and Meditation Instructor. She organizes events such as retreats, courses, workshops, and pilgrimages focused on self-discovery through the lens of Yoga and Ancient Traditions.

Jussara coordinates the volunteer project for Simplesmente Yoga – Educação Vertical and is a member of the Entrepreneurship Committee of the Mulheres do Brasil Group, supporting women’s inclusion in the job market and career transitions. She is a Certified Behavioral Profile Analyst using the DISC methodology and recently completed a Coaching Certification. She offers mentorship for students, instructors, and individuals seeking personal development through Yoga and Meditation combined with the benefits of Emotional Intelligence.

Lucas Neto: is a physical educator and therapist specializing in physical and behavioral approaches.

He has been teaching capoeira since December 1983 with the Associação de Capoeira Cordão de Ouro. Following Mestre Falcon, he began attending classes at the Associação de Capoeira Nacional, becoming a certified capoeira instructor in April 1993. Lucas became a Contra Mestre in August 1997 and a Mestre in December 2009. He holds a degree in Physical Education, with postgraduate studies in Resistance Training and Physical Conditioning, Acupuncture, and Sports and Fitness Training.

Capoeira, with its combination of martial arts, dance, and education, showcases a rich historical journey from its origins in Africa to its development in Brazil. It features the beauty of movements within a game of bodies set to energetic music, captivating and energizing capoeira practitioners. In capoeira practice, participants develop motor coordination, balance, reflexes, and rhythm, channeling the energy known as capoeira.

Samba de Roda, with its greatest expression in the Recôncavo Baiano, encompasses various forms. Originating in Candomblé terreiros, where enslaved Africans gathered to nurture their spirituality and express their culture freely, samba de roda emerged as a significant form of resistance for Black people in Brazil.

We will hold a Council, a practice inspired by indigenous traditions and systematized by the Ojai Foundation. The Council has become central to the Zen Peacemakers Order, as a form of contemplative action for building peace in society. During the Council, we gather in a circle, creating a sacred space around the fire to deeply listen to each other. We remain present to whatever arises in the circle, listening and speaking from the heart, open and attentive to what each person shares in this space of trust and confidentiality. At the Hearth Summit São Paulo, we propose focusing the Council on experiences in higher education.

Sandra Coelho: Sandra Coelho holds a PhD in Communication and Contemporary Culture from the Federal University of Bahia and is dedicated to implementing contemplative practices in higher education. She is a researcher at the Institute of Collective Health (ISC) and one of the coordinators of CONTEMPLEDUCA – a research group on contemplative practices for well-being, care, and sustainability in higher education. A certified yoga instructor by Yogabahia, IEPY, and Kaivalyadhama (India), Sandra’s primary motivation is to act as an agent of social transformation based on contemplative action. She is a member of the Wellbeing in Higher Education Network (WHEN) and the Zen Peacemakers Order.

Marcelo Castellanos: Marcelo Castellanos holds a PhD in Public Health (UNICAMP) and a postdoctoral degree in Sociology (Université Pierre-Mendès-France). He is an associate professor at the Institute of Collective Health (ISC/UFBA) and the leader of the “CONTEMPLEDUCA – a research group on contemplative practices for well-being, care, and sustainability in higher education”. Marcelo is a member of the Wellbeing in Higher Education Network (WHEN) and the Zen Peacemakers Order.

Francine Kliemann, Founder and Director of Platô Cultural

Platô Cultural is a Brazilian company that operates globally to incorporate “immersive creative learning” into schools and communities. The School of the (Im)Possible initiative has received grants from ITAC (International Teaching Artist Collaborative) and the British Council to expand its reach globally. We work closely with educational authorities to use creativity to transform education and address environmental and social challenges.

Francine’s work combines immersive theater, new technologies, and gamification to create playful learning experiences that foster both individual and collective learning, seeking new relationships between people and places. She founded Platô Cultural in 2018 with support from Goldsmiths, University of London. Since 2020, Platô Cultural has been based in Florianópolis, Brazil.

A central part of her work involves ongoing research, which underpins the creation of her projects. Platô’s work and research were presented at COP 26 (2021) and COP 27 Egypt (2022). Francine has spoken at various international conferences, including the Eco-Librium Conference (Online/France 2023), ITAC 6 – Art as Catalyst of Change (Norway 2022), DRHA 22 (London 2022), and the 4th Jeonju International Forum for Arts Education 2022 (South Korea 2022).

Francine is an active member of the global Community Arts Network (CAN), ITAC (International Teaching Artist Collaborative), Catalyst 2030 Movement, and Learning Planet Alliance. At Catalyst 2030, she founded the working group “ArtSI: Art for Social Impact,” collaborating with organizations and companies worldwide.

“Flowers that will speak to you of love… much more than my own words.” The painted canvases reflect the vibrant colors and magic of flowers, bringing people into a world created and observed by me through shapes and colors. The works are predominantly created using palette knives and brushes, mainly palette knives, within an impressionist style.

Irani Tomazella’s work is characterized by suggestive emotion and a gradual purity of forms. As an artist, she constantly studies and researches painting to find more immediate and effective ways to be a true interpreter of our time. Her relentless pursuit began with traditional academic training, progressing through graphic initiation, gestural painting, and the most advanced forms, leading her to highly fruitful results in discovering essential innovations in art.

Undoubtedly a poet with her brushes and palette knives, Tomazella finds inspiration and skill in her hands when facing a canvas or panel, guiding her with deep-rooted development and a transparent load of suggestive emotion.

Her recent experiences have resulted in a gradual purity of forms, a sensation of composition applied to themes that seem to emerge from the nuances of dreams, blending into the color. This color conveys the expressive force of a state of soul, becoming not just color but also vision, figure, nature, and a touching choice.

Irani Tomazella now presents a mature painting style, the result of evolutionary efforts that led her to attempt something new and of greater interest, featuring female figures enveloped by nature. Following the delicate thread of sensations, the artist has listened to the voices of a world seeking to touch the soul of the viewer through new techniques and color harmonies.