Last week, I participated in the FIFE – Inter-American Forum on Strategic Philanthropy 2023 , held in Belém do Pará.
Considered one of the largest events in the third sector in Brazil, the meeting brought together businesspeople, students, public managers, and volunteers interested in the main themes that guide the management of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
Since the program included 100 simultaneous activities, it wasn't possible to participate in everything, but I've highlighted 5 reasons why this FIFE was such a special experience:
1. The location was a very appropriate choice
Belém is an incredible city, surrounded by natural, historical, and cultural wonders. Participating in the forum in the capital of Pará allowed me to experience a bit of the city, learn about other perspectives within the NGO ecosystem, and decentralize the debate about the third sector in Brazil. Many of the experiences built during those 4 days were only possible thanks to the vibrant atmosphere of Belém.
2. Plenary session “Be the change you want to see in the world”, with Iara and Eduardo Xavier ( Hunters of Good Examples )
Tired of hearing bad news, the couple Iara and Eduardo decided to leave everything behind and set off in search of stories and social projects that contribute to a fairer country and make a difference in the communities where they live.
In their presentation, they recounted the joys and challenges of this undertaking to seek out and catalog good examples, which today encompass more than 1 million kilometers traveled and surpass the 6,317 projects cataloged by Brazil and 12 other countries.
3. Plenary session “Four pillars for the growth of your organization”, with Alexandre Amorim (AGO Social)
Based on research conducted by Alexandre Amorim (co-founder of Ago Social ) with social organizations, the plenary session began provocatively with the following question: "Has your NGO been providing the same services to the same people for a long time?"
Understanding which weaknesses were recurring, Alexandre proposed the consolidation of 4 management pillars for the growth of social organizations: 1) Creation of a strategic council; 2) Establishment of goals; 3) Vision with evolutionary results; and 4) Criteria in the application of resources that generate exponential results. The audience was attentive from beginning to end, and I felt that this was one of the most dynamic activities of the event.
4. Discoveries at the trade fair
Throughout the event, a trade fair was held featuring organizations and companies working in the non-profit sector. Visiting the stands was a great way to learn about new initiatives and make contacts. The environment was conducive to companies connecting with each other and with potential partners, creating opportunities for collaboration, exchange of information and ideas about market trends.
5. Finally, the grandeur of the forum: the connections
All the lectures and plenary sessions were incredible, but what I enjoyed most were the hallways. FIFE provided a very powerful space for meetings and connections. I was able to foster partnerships, hear inspiring stories, share knowledge, and be challenged by various trends. Being face-to-face with such diverse people and stories was the forum's greatest contribution to strengthening the networking of organizations.
These were special days, with excellent opportunities to expand knowledge and exchange experiences. I believe that networking strengthens the third sector, and FIFE certainly contributes to building an increasingly strong culture of collaboration and cooperation in the country.
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