Many thanks and appreciation to all involved with co-ordination and participation in ‘Favelas Arise’ workshops in Sao Paulo, Brazil. On 3rd of December 2017 the Reverso group from London attended the first gathering of surburban favela and occupied housing representatives at Escola da Cidade.
This consisted of presentations to introduce each other and open discussions about shared issues and experiences as well as some detail of conditions at each city wide location. A great start to a busy week for us all.
Each day until departure on 12th December the London group visited a different community space and met with collective members, exchanged information and tested out some of the tools and techniques as featured in this Reverso report.
Time was short to hear about all the great work and discuss the Mazi toolkit which was sometimes frustrating. In each situation we were supported by professional and community interpreters whom helped communicate the many different contexts, conditions and aspirations being so eloquently expressed by all.
Without the local support for personal introductions and neighbourhood guides it would not have been possible to navigate in and out of these very different environments so freely and safely. Thanks again to all involved for the great work and friendships fostered for the future.
It’s not an end to anything but a brave beginning to so much that deserves attention and will reward for the effort. Viva Reverso!