Aquilomba

Aquilomba 2025.

The third annual Aquilomba gathering, an initiative of the Lemann Foundation Leaders Network, reasserted its role in advancing Afro-Brazilian and Indigenous leaders and overcoming structural hurdles in their career trajectories. Bringing together nearly 80 network members on October 16, the event provided a safe, transformative space built on mutual support and strategic exchange, pairing community-building activities with high-impact learning.

Highlights included interactive panels and a keynote conversation with Mike Strautmanis, Vice President at the Obama Foundation, addressing key themes such as public policy design, institutional fundraising, international leadership pathways, and well-being. Discussions centered on concrete mechanisms to increase Afro-Brazilian leadership in senior decision-making roles, secure long-term backing for Afro-Brazilianled organizations, and build resilient networks for collective impact.

“One of the aspects that impresses me most about the Lemann Foundation, and something we also strive to cultivate at the Obama Foundation, is setting ambitious goals and inviting leaders to engage. We don’t have to agree on everything. In fact, we can disagree passionately on critical issues. But if we share core values and unite around a common goal, we can collaborate effectively, mobilizing people dedicated to serving their communities, their countries, and their networks to drive real action.”

Mike Strautmanis,

Vice President, Obama Foundation