“As I step into the next chapter, I am reminded once more of how transformative this journey has been. My experience as a Global Campus student and fellow was never just about academic rigour, nor simply about research into children’s rights and inclusion; it has been an ongoing process of discovering what it means to belong to a community that cares deeply about dignity, justice, and the lived realities of those too often overlooked.
Coming from Brazil, the transition into a Global Campus setting felt like the continuation of a dream nurtured since childhood. I was raised in a naturalistic school where differences were embraced, conversations were open, and a connection to nature brought learning to life. I learnt early on that education flourishes not just through knowledge, but through kindness, diversity, and courage—qualities that have accompanied me throughout this fellowship and now shape my motivations as I embark on my internship at ShareMusic and Performing Arts in Sweden.
The focus of my research—exploring how Art and Inclusive Education empower children and persons with disabilities—emerged naturally from my past and from countless hours spent volunteering and working with creative and human rights-led organisations. Inspired by Paulo Freire’s philosophy, I believe education does not change the world. Education changes people. People change the world. Inclusion through artistic intervention provides a path not only for expression but for genuine participation and connection. My completed thesis brought these concepts together in both practice and advocacy, guided by the frameworks of the CRC and the CRPD.
Throughout my fellowship, I received invaluable support from both ALDEPA (founded by Right Livelihood Laureate Marthe Wandou and promoting community-led, participatory development and empowerment in Cameroon) and ShareMusic, a Swedish knowledge centre for artistic development and inclusion). These organisations offered guidance, encouragement and practical assistance during my thesis writing. The collaborative environment cultivated by Right Livelihood and the Global Campus enabled me to develop my research and refine my ideas, ensuring that my thesis could highlight the power of inclusive and artistic approaches in the field of human rights.
Now, as I begin my internship, my aspirations are rooted in learning with and from others—developing interdisciplinary skills, deepening my understanding of inclusive practice, and contributing to the vibrant work at ShareMusic. To the Global Campus community, fellow alumni, and the many mentors who have shaped this path—thank you. The responsibility to continue is great, but equally meaningful is the solidarity discovered among us. Together we move forward, committed not simply to knowledge, but to acts of dignity and care.”
This Right Livelihood Fellowship Programme connects students of the Global Campus Master’s Programmes who have a strong interest in children’s rights with Right Livelihood Laureates. During the research phase of their Master’s, the selected student receives guidance and support from the Laureate’s organisation in preparing their thesis. Following thesis defence and graduation, the Fellow undertakes an internship with the Laureate’s organisation. The Fellowship covers internship-related expenses and provides a monthly stipend.
A new round of selections will soon begin for GC students who have just started the 2025–26 edition of the Master’s Programmes. Beyond EMA (GC Europe), this year’s call will also expand to students from other Global Campus programmes. Vitória will begin her funded internship on 1 October, a five-month experience — and we wish her every success!
Vitoria at her thesis defense, September 2025, Venice