Our Leaders
A huge thank you to our incredible Mentor Leaders! These volunteers dedicate their time and energy to supporting our community of mentors. They lead teams of approximately 20 mentors, fostering connection through answering questions, organizing group activities, sharing information, and providing general guidance. Mentor Leaders also play a crucial role in integrating new and experienced mentors into the program and assisting with mentor reassignments and replacements. Their dedication and commitment are essential to the success of our program.
From: Minas Gerais, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
From: Paraná, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
Avany Judith
Avany, 41, is a chemist based in Curitiba, PR, who believes English is key to professional growth. Driven by a desire to give back, she found her place at Soul Bilíngue, connecting with its mission of accessible language learning. She loves the arts (especially Shakira's "Dónde Están los Ladrones?" and the film "Stranger Than Fiction"). Curious fact: she enjoys watching YouTube videos of people fixing electronic equipment and furniture.
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2021
Carolina Akemi Ii
38, lived in England for 25 years as a translator. Loves connecting with students & sharing experiences. Hobbies: coloring and making origami. Enjoys Bridgerton, Harry Styles, and her favorite book is Before the Coffee Gets Cold.
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2023
Ídris Maria
Ídris Maria (they/she) is a 20-year-old Humanities, Philosophy, and Public Policy student passionate about mentoring and giving back. They enjoy cozy activities like playing Stardew Valley, reading Caio Fernando Abreu, and listening to Wave to Earth & FBC. Some of their favorite things include Over the Garden Wall, grandma's apple pie, strawberry cardigans, and raisin cookies.
From: Santa Catarina, Brazil
Volunteer since 2022
Jéssica Cristina
Jessy, 31, is an accounting technician, architect, and interior designer living in Vancouver since 2020. Having come from a similar background as many Soul students, she understands the challenges and importance of learning English. She's passionate about mentoring and connecting with others. In her free time, she enjoys PC games, movies, TV series, coloring (especially "Secret Garden"), and anything cat-related.
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
Laura Alves
I'm Laura, 25 years old, from São Paulo. I work in the Logistics field and am a leader at Soul, as well as a career mentor and translator. I love photography, reading, cycling, and writing—activities that inspire me daily. I'm also passionate about volunteer work, contributing to causes that make a difference.
From: Espírito Santo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
Maiana Knupp
Hey, I’m Maia! Born in Espírito Santo, but Ireland has been home for the past five years—I came for the English, stayed for a Master’s in HR. I love sports, cinema, summer, and traveling. I used to train jiu-jitsu (made it to a blue belt, might go back someday!). Always curious, I love learning new things and surrounding myself with good vibes and great friends.
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2023
From: Minas Gerais, Brazil
Volunteer since 2020
Matheus Botarro
Originally from Minas Gerais, Brazil, this Senior QA Engineer has called Ireland home since 2020. He's a dedicated volunteer, especially passionate about educational initiatives. He believes mentoring can open up new worlds and perspectives. When he's not working, he enjoys exploring different cultures, creating content for his YouTube podcast, and watching movies like "Arrival." In the past, he was a college professor for 5 years and an amateur motorcycle racer. He's also a proud uncle to Lucas and Laura. He also enjoys Stand Up Paddle.
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2023
Monica Mary
Monica, 47, is an accountant and financial controller in a digital marketing company. She believes that through English we can get the best salaries and open the world's doors to all low-income young people, giving them the opportunity they haven't had yet. In her personal life, she enjoys yoga, meditation, dance, and reading about self-knowledge. A fun fact: she practices Capoeira.
From: Minas Gerais, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
Natalia Camillo
26, frontend developer, getting her Master's in Computer Science. Lives in Uberlândia-MG. Lived in a closed community in Pará and also in Mozambique (where she learned English). Enjoys reading, binge-watching shows (Bridgerton), her favorite book is "Capitães da Areia," and her favorite movie is "Pride and Prejudice." Current favorite artist: Megan Thee Stallion.
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
Ricardo Katayama
41, born in São Paulo, now lives in Amsterdam with his family (2 and 6-year-old children). Has a small financial services business in Brazil and works in market research. Believes in the value of international experience and volunteering. Enjoys nature, hiking, audiobooks, podcasts, running, and cooking. But these days, being a dad is 90% of who he is.
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
Rubia Agripino
Software engineering student and nanny living in San Francisco since 2017. Originally from São Paulo's East Zone. Huge fan of Game of Thrones (tattoo and all!), Lord of the Rings, sci-fi, and the occasional horror flick. Love hiking, exploring new restaurants, cooking, playing volleyball, and hanging out with friends. Currently reading: "101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think."
From: São Paulo, Brazil
Volunteer since 2024
Willa Regina
23-year-old Public Policy Management student from São Paulo's North Zone, soon to start a Software Engineering degree. Works as a Technical Advisor for the city of São Paulo and shares her home with her beloved cat, Miau. She loves food and hates cold weather. She's a WhatsApp sticker enthusiast. Fun fact: she's a Soul Bilíngue alumna!