A discussion of how Brazilian entrepreneurs are shaping Massachusetts’ economic future.

On Thursday, April 23, the Latino Equity Fund, in partnership with the Instituto Diáspora Brasil (IDB) and GBH, hosted a networking celebration and panel discussion on entrepreneurship, economic mobility, and the growing influence of Brazilians in Massachusetts. The event opened with an opportiunity to gather, share stories, eat, drink and enjoy Brazilian entertainment in the atrium at the GBH sttudios in Brighton.

Then the audience filed into the auditorium for introductory remarks from LEF co-chair Zamawa Arenas and Instituto Diáspora Brasil Executive Director Mariela Dutra, followed by a robust panel discussion featuring leaders from five local industries:

• Real Estate Development & Construction - Nelson de Oliveira, Founder & CEO at Nelson Group
• Professional Services - Fernando Castro, President of Income Tax Plus
• Food Services - Renato Valentin, Co-founder of Tavern in the Square
• Personal Services - Flavia Leal, Owner of Flavia Leal Beauty School
• Consulting and Investment - Manuel Mendes, Global Executive Director of IXL Center for Innovation, Excellence and Leadership

Special thanks to our networking partners: