A psychologist, researcher, and sexual and reproductive rights advocate, Davi Augusto Soares has worked with more than 2,000 young people in Brazil, many from vulnerable backgrounds. 

MCW Global became a significant chapter in his already meaningful journey when he participated in the 2024 Young Leaders Fellowship. 

“For a long time, I kept my story quiet, afraid of judgment and its weight. However, throughout my experience with MCW Global, I realized that my story is not a weakness; it is a bridge. In a world with billions of young people, many may be facing similar challenges to those I faced.”

“By telling my story with courage and vulnerability, I reconnected with myself and created spaces of empathy, inspiration, and transformation for other young people who feel alone or voiceless.” Davi shares.

“I learned that our experiences have power and that sharing is an act of resistance and leadership,” he adds. 

Through his involvement with MCW Global, he discovered the power of sharing personal experiences as a tool for connection and leadership. 

“Telling my story helped me reconnect with myself and opened spaces of empathy and transformation for others who may feel alone or voiceless.”

Beyond personal growth, MCW Global also aligned deeply with Davis’ professional values. 

“MCW Global’s values [integrity, compassion, responsibility, respect, and excellence] not only resonate with me but are also an essential part of how I operate in the world. As a psychologist, researcher, and sexual and reproductive rights advocate, I have built my career around advancing access to sexual rights through education and public policy in Brazil, particularly in contexts marked by socioeconomic vulnerability and political resistance.” he shares. 

These values, he recognizes, are manifested daily in his work and activism.

Reflecting on MCW Global’s impact, he adds, “More than an organization, MCW Global represents a living community of leaders who believe in a more just and humane world, and being part of that has been profoundly transformative. For me, MCW does not end at the end of the program: it continues with each action, partnership, and young person that impacts Brazil.”

As MCW Global celebrates 25 years of impact, Davi remains committed to continuing this legacy in Brazil and beyond. 

“More than an organization, MCW Global is a living community of leaders. I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

Transforming Communities for 25 Years: Looking Back, Moving Forward Project brings to you a series of exclusive articles celebrating the 25th Anniversary of MCW Global. The stories and reflections shared represent the experiences and perspectives of individuals involved with the organization in various capacities, starting from alumni, board and team members, affiliates, supporters, and donors.