TEDxVárzea Alegre

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Antônio José de Souza

  A musician who learned to play the trumpet and whistle songs using only his lips. Everything was self-taught. He has performed in various local, regional, and national media outlets.

• Banda Cabaçal

  The origin of the Cabaçal Band in the municipality of Várzea Alegre and in the arid hinterlands of Cariri, where the scorching sun mixes with the dust of the roads and the earth echoes, is a tradition that spans generations and captivates hearts. The pulsating rhythm of the Cabaçal Band is a cultural expression deeply rooted in the Northeast of Brazil.

• Bruno Siebra

  Bruno Siebra, born in Várzea Alegre, Ceará, on March 27, 1983, is a multifaceted professional. He holds a degree in Journalism from the Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), with postgraduate studies in Portuguese Language and Arts Education. In addition, he is a musician, writer, teacher, and book editor. He also works as an audiovisual producer. In summary: Bruno Siebra is a professional with diverse areas of expertise, including journalism, music, writing, and education. Details: Education: Journalism (UFPI), Postgraduate in Portuguese Language and Arts Education Fields of Work: Journalist, Musician, Writer, Teacher, Book Editor, and Audiovisual Producer Place of Birth: Várzea Alegre, Ceará Date of Birth: March 27, 1983 Other Activities: Blogger and book editor at Siebra Comunicação

• Children's Choir of Casa Mãe Várzea Alegre

  A choir formed by children of various ages who are supported by the social project Casa Mãe, founded by Mrs. Renata and Mrs. Bilinha. The children began by singing the anthem of the municipality, followed by a song about a local delicacy known as "pão de arroz"—a type of couscous made with rice flour and peanuts. Finally, they performed the song Bem-te-vi by Renato Terra. The choir is conducted by Maestro Diego and teacher Sâmia.

• Ciswal Santos

  Educator and Researcher

  Theme: I Won’t Give Up — It Will Be Worth It Description: In this talk, we’ll discover the inspiring journey of a former can collector who went on to earn a degree, become a teacher, study at one of the best universities in the world (Harvard), and develop a project that supports low-income families without access to electricity or the internet. He also founded a school in a remote African village that now serves 172 children aged 2 to 16, and has delivered lectures at the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands and in Paris. Currently, he is a researcher at Lottus Energy – Dubai and the Federation of Industries of the State of Ceará. This is the story of a man born in Pernambuco who proudly calls himself a Cearense and deeply loves the Cariri region.

• Eduardo Guimarães

  President of the Brazilian Network of UNESCO Global Geoparks; Executive Director of the Araripe Geopark; Professor in the Department of Physical Education at URCA ; Deputy Coordinator of the Latin America and Caribbean Geoparks Network (GeoLAC)

  We are honored to announce Eduardo Guimarães as one of the outstanding speakers at TEDx Várzea Alegre 2025! Internationally recognized for his work in promoting geodiversity and sustainable development, Eduardo is a visionary who connects science, education, and innovation to transform realities. 🌍 🔸 President of the Brazilian Network of UNESCO Global Geoparks 🔸 Executive Director of the Araripe Geopark 🔸 Professor in the Department of Physical Education at URCA 🔸 Deputy Coordinator of the Latin America and Caribbean Geoparks Network (GeoLAC) Eduardo will bring a powerful perspective on how geoparks go far beyond environmental conservation — they are true drivers of economic growth, sustainable tourism, and the strengthening of cultural identity. His journey proves that knowledge and preservation can walk hand in hand toward a more innovative and sustainable future. 🌱🔬 An unmissable talk for those who believe in the power of roots to drive meaningful transformation.

• Helena Pinheiro

  Businesswoman and Social Entrepreneur

  Theme: Scarcity as a Vector for Transformation Description: A daughter of the Paraíba hinterlands, Helena Pinheiro grew up in a rural area in a family of 11 siblings and, from an early age, saw scarcity as a driving force for transformation. Volunteering was her gateway to personal and community development, beginning her journey by assisting in catechism classes and identifying opportunities for social impact. In the beauty industry, she discovered that a simple haircut can reshape self-esteem and open new horizons. Today, she is a female leader who brings together entrepreneurial women in support networks, fostering collective growth and empowerment. For Helena, scarcity doesn't limit — it propels.

• Hilário Francelino

  Intensive Care Physician

  Theme: Health and Well-being for the Future Description: With his international experience, Dr. Hilário Francelino will discuss the role of health and well-being in community development and the future of upcoming generations. He will emphasize how healthcare practices can contribute to more sustainable and resilient societies. Connection to the Main Theme and Subtheme: Dr. Hilário offers a perspective on health and well-being as key pillars for the future of communities, highlighting how medicine and care for both body and mind are essential to drive societal progress. His international background provides an opportunity to reflect on how investing in health is crucial to the sustainability of communities, building a solid foundation for the generations to come.

• Jefferson Bob

  Professor and Researcher (UFC) Biologist and Guardian of Sertanejo Culture

  Theme: Cultural Preservation and Environmental Education Description: Jefferson Bob will highlight the importance of preserving local culture and intangible heritage through his work at Sítio Pau Preto. He will discuss how traditional knowledge can play a key role in sustainable development and in valuing the sertanejo (hinterland) culture.

• Maria Larissa Pereira Paiva

  Citizen scientist, science communicator, analog astronaut, education and science popularization activist

  First Analog Astronaut from Ceará, trained by Wogel Aerospace in Brasília; Science communicator and digital influencer, with over 18,000 engaged followers in science and education; Founder of the project “Pires Ferreira nas Estrelas ”, which promotes science olympiads and citizen science activities in the Ibiapaba mountain range and across Brazil through online initiatives; Citizen scientist in international programs, including: Asteroid Hunt (NASA/IASC/MCTI) – Detected 25 asteroids: Galaxy Cruise (National Astronomical Observatory of Japan) – Analyzed over 2,000 galaxies Science Popularization Ambassador (POP Ciência) – Recognized by Brazil’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MCTI) for impact on science education Forbes Under 30 (2024) – Featured in the Science and Education category; Medalist in the Brazilian Astronomy and Astronautics ; Awarded in several national and international STEM competitions, including the "Lead Like a Girl, Change the World" Award in 2023

• Raniere Cândido

  Technology Specialist and Microsoft Fellow

  Theme: Smart Networks, Strong Communities Description: Raniere Cândido will share his experience as a technology specialist and discuss how Tradition-Inspired Technology can foster authentic connections. Connection to the Main Theme and Subtheme: Raniere connects with the theme of technological innovation and transformation by showing how digital education and innovation are essential to transforming learning. He emphasizes how the roots of digital education can link teachers and students to new ways of learning, creating a positive impact on society.

• Rosinha Ceilda

  Artisans as Agents of Local Transformation

  Description: Known as “The Mocotó Girls,” Rosinha and Ceilda are living symbols of tradition and resilience. Deeply rooted in the Cariri region’s culture, they have kept alive the culinary heritage, particularly through the preparation and sharing of mocotó, a traditional dish that brings people together. Through their stories, flavors, and presence in local festivities, they demonstrate how food, memory, and identity are powerful expressions of culture.

• Vanderlei Cardoso

  Sales Specialist and Mentor

  Theme: Purpose-Driven Leadership — The Power of Those Who Make Things Happen Description: Vanderlei Cardoso will explore how purpose-driven leadership fuels social transformation and community development. He will highlight the role of leaders in strengthening local identities, promoting economic and social growth through strategic management and collective engagement.