LTI Brazil, January 26- Michaela

This morning started off early, as we all walked out the door at 7:30 am and took the bus to the other side of town for our meeting with the Fulbright Commission. I was a little nervous about meeting with such a prominent organization, but true to the laid-back Brazilian culture we have all grown so fond of, country coordinators Andreza Martins and Bianca Macena greeted us with smiles, matte tea and a basket of pao de queijo. We were also excited to meet fellow Bostonian Adam Singerman, a Harvard graduate currently working for ILRIO, an NGO here in Brazil.

After introducing the foundation to our organization, we discussed our vision for the future of LTI, particularly our long-term goal of creating a global network of leaders by establishing self-sustaining chapters worldwide. With a mission statement that pledges to “advance international understanding through volunteer service to communities,” the Foundation’s goals were very much in line with ours, so although the tone was casual, the meeting was extremely fruitful. The Fulbright staff connected us with a number of potential supporters and partner organizations, most notably the Youth Ambassadors and Student Leaders. These two organizations, headed by the American embassy in Brazil, are composed of underprivileged students from every Brazilian state. The students are selected for academic excellence, leadership potential and involvement in their communities- thus making alumni of the programs perfect candidates to serve as mentors in our Brazil-based chapters! We have scheduled a Thursday meeting with representatives from both organizations, as well as a meeting tomorrow with public interest group Iko Poran.

The day wasn’t all business, however. We visited the Parque Lage, a beautiful collection of tropical gardens. Amanda, Tina and Susan explored the caves and scenic walkways while Dave and I lunched at a famous café in the heart of the park. We even saw the stars of a local telenovela- a Brazilian soap opera- sipping Guaraná at the table next to us. Resident fashionista Susan also took us shopping for stylish Brazilian clothing so we can dress like the natives.

It’s definitely been an exciting day, but I’d better sign off now and go to bed. There’s so much to get done and so many things to see in Rio… all before Friday!
-Michaela