Organized by CEMS Club São Paulo and FGV EAESP, this annual gathering offers a unique platform to build community, exchange knowledge, and explore innovative solutions to regional challenges. With a rich agenda blending sustainability initiatives, academic discussions, and cultural experiences, the event invites participants to dive into the dynamic spirit of Latin America.
Read on to uncover the highlights of this transformative week!
A Weekend of Sustainability in Ilhabela
The forum kicked off with a two-day immersion in Ilhabela, an island renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Themed "Sustainability & Community Building," the weekend emphasized CEMS’s commitment to shaping responsible leaders who contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive world.
On Saturday morning, students rolled up their sleeves for a beach cleanup, collecting waste to protect Ilhabela’s delicate ecosystem. In the afternoon, they visited the IIS Marine Conservation Project, where they learned about efforts to safeguard marine biodiversity, including sea turtles.
“This experience was eye-opening. It’s inspiring to see how local initiatives can make such a significant impact,” said Gaia dalla Zonca, a student from MPGI/CEMS and the CEMS Club President.
Sunday offered a blend of leisure and cultural discovery. Participants explored Cachoeira da Toca, a stunning waterfall perfect for hiking and swimming, and concluded the day with a Capoeira workshop, diving into Afro-Brazilian heritage through this unique mix of martial arts, music, and dance.
Exploring Business and Innovation in São Paulo
The week transitioned into networking and professional development events in São Paulo.
On Monday, a visit to Cartier’s flagship boutique in Cidade Jardim showcased the intersection of luxury and global commerce. In the afternoon, Marcelo Bradaschia, Head of Digital Credit at Banco ABC Brasil, delivered an insightful lecture on the Brazilian fintech ecosystem, unpacking the evolution of financial services and the pivotal role of technology in reshaping the industry.
“Brazil is at the forefront of fintech innovation, and understanding this landscape is essential for future leaders,” - Bradaschia explained, highlighting advancements like PIX and Open Finance.
Tuesday featured an AI Gamified Learning Lab, where students programmed miniature autonomous cars and applied AI to real-world business scenarios. Led by FGV EAESP Professors Wagner Damiani and Jaci Leite, the event covered core AI and self-driving technologies such as robotics, computer vision, pedestrian motion detection, and natural language processing. Students also tackled real-world business challenges, developing AI-driven solutions and business plans to enhance critical thinking and prepare for professional challenges. This hands-on experience was capped with a certificate from NVIDIA, reflecting the participants' mastery of AI applications.
Career Development and Networking
Midweek events focused on career growth with a workshop by Sanofi executives. Marcela Fernandes, Global Talent Partner, Andrea Suarez, Head of Talent Management Brazil, and Danielle Costa, Learning Partner, hosted an interactive workshop on Wednesday, guiding attendees through personal branding and career planning.
“The PIE model—Performance, Image, Exposure—can completely change how you approach your career trajectory,” shared Marcela Fernandes, Global Talent Partner (CTO) from Sanofi.
Later, Oliver Wyman hosted a networking session, with associate Luis Kuster sharing insights into the consulting world. “Our goal is to prepare you to become exceptional leaders by exposing you to diverse opportunities,” Kuster stated. Kuster himself is an alumnus of the MPGI/CEMS program and has been in Brazil for 4 years.
A Platform for Connection and Growth
The LATAM Forum 2024 exemplified the power of collaboration across borders. By combining sustainability efforts, professional insights, and cultural experiences, the event left participants with not just new knowledge, but lifelong memories and connections.
“Events like this prove that the future of leadership is collaborative, inclusive, and impactful,” concluded Alice Micheletti, a MPGI/CEMS student.
At the end of the event, the participants carried not only a deeper understanding of the LATAM region but also a renewed commitment to driving change in their communities.
