The picturesque town of Tres Coroas in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, recently played host to the transformative LATAM 2024 event, aptly themed "In Tune with the Environment."
This gathering was a vibrant celebration of sustainable living and community spirit, bringing together 37 participants from 7 countries, 6 of them from Latin America. Furthermore, we had roughly 20 participants joining online sessions and the online participation of several board members of Servas International.
Among the attendants there was a young person from Brazil, who has recently joined Servas, taking part in this international event:
“It was a great opportunity for me to understand more about Servas, meet wonderful people, share traditions and talk about the environment and nature. It was a great event, and I am very happy about sharing those days here” (Leila Warken).
The event featured a diverse range of activities designed to promote physical, mental, and social well-being. Attendees participated in rejuvenating circular dances and yoga sessions, fostering a sense of inner peace and mindfulness. Integration dynamics workshops provided opportunities for participants to connect, share experiences, and build stronger community bonds.
A key highlight of LATAM 2024 was the series of hands-on workshops. These sessions empowered attendees with practical knowledge and skills to live more sustainably. Participants engaged in tree planting activities, contributing to the reforestation efforts in the region and leaving a lasting positive impact on the local environment, which was also enhanced with the painting of a wonderful mural in the venue.
The event also marked a significant milestone: the 75th anniversary of Servas. This momentous occasion was celebrated with a grand ceremony, reflecting on the organization's contributions to peace and hospitality over the decades.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, a charitable auction was held, with proceeds supporting Servas future initiatives/actions. Cultural performances showcased the rich heritage of the region and other participating countries, adding a colorful and dynamic element to the event. The celebrations culminated in a scenic trip to the charming towns of Gramado and Canela, providing a perfect end to a memorable gathering.
LATAM 2024 not only celebrated environmental consciousness but also emphasized the importance of collective action and community engagement in creating a sustainable future. Equally important was the engagement between members of Servas Latin America countries, therefore empowering Servas in this region, and a general understanding from members and from the delegates of each country that Latam must continue in the following years. The event left participants inspired and motivated to continue their efforts in tune with the environment in their own countries.
By: Igina Gabriela Pereira, Servas Youth Brazil
