Onda Solidária

Established in the year 2000 by Ricardo Calçado, Onda Solidária is a sustainable initiative dedicated to promoting social inclusion by creating opportunities in low-income communities across Brazil. This impactful project has garnered enthusiastic support from Ms. Carolina Chew at the British School, engaging numerous students in its exploration.
The roots of this project date back to Calçado’s childhood when he was just six years old. Calçado vividly recalls meeting Mumuca, a child living in dire street conditions, in an encounter that sparked the seeds of compassion and motivation that eventually blossomed into Onda Solidária. After Calçado’s parents found Mumuca injured and in need, they brought him into their home for care. Calçado swiftly formed a deep bond with Mumuca and their friendship endured through the years, yet the gaping disparities in their opportunities remained painfully evident.
Tragically, Calçado’s world was shattered at the age of ten when he learned of Mumuca’s passing. This profound experience of friendship and loss propelled Calçado towards a lifelong pursuit of strength and solidarity in aiding children facing similar situations.
Onda Solidária’s main accomplishment has been developing Vila dos Sonhos: an eco-social center focused on human development, education, and sustainability. At this center, a variety of activities are provided with the dual purpose of educating children about sustainability and providing entertainment. It allows community members to hone individual skills through workshops and lectures, promotes the preservation of traditional cultures, and integrates sports, art, and culture harmoniously with nature.
The British School has been engaged in this project for several years. In an assembly held in August 2023, led by Ms. Carolina Chew, all students were invited to plant seeds in cups. Subsequently, during a field trip to Vila dos Sonhos, volunteers planted these germinated seeds to cultivate an ecosystem, leaving their mark on the environment.
Volunteers also enjoyed a day of activities in Vila dos Sonhos. They utilized the basketball court to delve into sports and anatomy, engaged in bread-making sessions to explore vegan cuisine, visited the farm to gain insights into livestock management, and contributed to environmental conservation by planting trees.
Onda Solidária stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and determination in creating positive change. Their commitment to the environment as well as the well-being of its community members sets a remarkable example for other communities worldwide.