2020
Maria Antônia Carvalho Dezidério
- Age: 22
- | She/her/hers
Region:
Country of Origin:
Country of Residence:
Expertise Areas:
We, young people, are uniquely positioned to disrupt power dynamics that have contributed to grave challenges throughout the world. From politics to business and community leadership, it is clear that meaningful participation of girls and women in positions of authority holds abundant benefits for everyone. It's time for our voice to heard.
- Maria Antônia Carvalho Dezidério
Bio
Maria Antônia Carvalho Dezidério was born and raised in Brazil. She is currently attending law school at the University of São Paulo. Maria is founder and president at Girl Up Salvador and founder of Laços de Vida.
What ignited your pursuit for gender equality?
I am a gender equality advocate because girls are constantly being violated inside their own homes, and we need to change that reality. Gender equality and education are the keys to a better world, and a revolution will start when all women know that.
Please share your biggest wins as an advocate for gender equality.
I became the first black female to be elected president of the youth parliament. That was a win because many other girls got inspired by my initiative and started to be interested in politics and participate in the program. Now, more black girls see themselves in programs of politics and high education. It my biggest win.
Outside of your gender equality advocacy work, what do you enjoy doing?
I love to play volleyball, draw, play my ukulele and sing, read, and dance. I dance a lot.
Languages Spoken:
- English (Advanced/Native)
- Portuguese (Advanced/Native)
- Spanish (Intermediate)
- French (Elementary)
- Portuguese (Advanced/Native)
Publications:
Speaks On:
- youth political participation and leadership
- Black female rights in Brazil
Past Awards, Certifications, or Fellowships:
- Latin America Leadership Academy Program
- Girl Up Leadership Summit
- Global Voices University of Michigan State prize winner
