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Feature September 2021
Marvelous Trning Ground: Consulate General Rio de Janeiro Explores the Welcoming Sports Culture in its Host City
Opening Shot: The tropical weather, breathtaking beaches, and lush green nature in Rio de Janeiro all contribute to earning it the nickname “Cidade Maravilhosa” The Marvelous City. Well-known globally as the host of the 2016 Olympic Games, the 2014 World Cup, and home to Maracan? stadium, this city prioritizes sports with an enthusiastic spirit among its residents. This passion for sports has not only enriched the local community's lifestyle but also provided opportunities that bridge social classes.
The Consulate General of Rio de Janeiro is committed to leveraging this unique cultural landscape by exploring and engaging in various sports activities that resonate deeply with Brazilian youth and adults alike. By promoting initiatives related to football, dance, and surfing, among others, the consulate not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also fosters cultural exchange through the universal language of sports.
One major initiative is engaging with football clubs and enthusiasts across Brazil. The Consulate partners with local soccer teams, providing platforms for cultural exchange and promoting American culture through interactive events and programs. This not only fosters goodwill but also showcases the diversity of opportunities avlable to Brazilian youth interested in pursuing studies or professional development abroad.
Partnering with dance schools and performers like Ingrid Silva, one of Brazil's renowned ballerinas, the consulate organizes virtual masterclasses across the country during Pride Month. These sessions not only celebrate LGBTQ+ culture but also serve as a platform for showcasing American values of inclusivity and diversity.
The consulate's engagement with surfing highlights another side to Brazilian athleticism. Celebrating Italo Ferreira's achievement at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the consulate has capitalized on this enthusiasm by inviting local surfers like Kelly Slater when possible for events that further promote sports diplomacy.
The connection between athletic talent and English proficiency is pivotal. The Consulate collaborates with educational institutions to provide resources in English language learning, including innovative online platforms. This not only enhances local skills but also opens doors for Brazilian students interested in studying abroad.
Brazil's ranking as the 9th country sing international students to the United States with a significant growth rate, reflects a burgeoning interest and opportunity for young Brazilians to explore educational opportunities beyond their borders. The consulate supports this movement through its binational centers, EducationUSA offices, and by actively participating in outreach programs.
The Consulate General Rio de Janeiro's commitment to sports diplomacy illustrates the power of combining cultural engagement with strategic foreign policy objectives. By promoting activities such as football, dance, and surfing, not only does it enhance bilateral relations but also provides a unique lens through which Brazil and its people can connect with other nations on a global stage.
Camila David is Press and Media Specialist at the U.S. Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro.
TAGS: Brazil, COVID19, Empowerment, Feature, Fitness, Football, Pandemic, Rio de Janeiro, Soccer, Sports
This article is reproduced from: https://statemag.state.gov/2021/09/0921feat03/
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