I work at the crossroads of youth, education, culture, and arts *

this is where I share that journey

My experience bridges inquiry and arts-based practice, creativity and ethnography, cultural production and community belonging. Whether you’re an educator, a researcher, an artist, or simply curious about how creative processes can change lives…

This is a space shaped by encounters between cultures, knowledge, people, and the stories we tell.

Maria Pereira PhD

About me

I’m a Brazilian researcher, cultural producer, and filmmaker. With almost two decades of experience at the intersection of arts, education, and youth, my work spans cultures, communities, and disciplines.

Dive deeper

My professional journey began in the world of independent film distribution, contributing to realize pioneer decentralised, youth-driven cinema promotion across Brazil. It then developed into the coordination of arts-based educational projects to young students. And later on to filmmaking, as creator and producer of social documentaries.

Most of my research blends narrative interviews, visual culture, and participatory methods to uncover how youth conceive and address their common challenges. My PhD in Education focused on the social and emotional impacts of artistic practices among young people.

I’m currently a research fellow at the Institute of Anthropology at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. My ongoing project, Mano a Mano, uses youth participatory action research inquiring how youth empowerment can enhance young people’s safeguarding.

MANO A MANO

Mano a Mano is an action-research project aimed at developing critical awareness and fostering political action among adolescents and young people

Are you between 12 and 24 years old and live in Brazil?
Do you want to be heard and empowered to confront the abuse you experience/witness in your daily life?
Are you part of a youth collective/group or willing to form one with your friends?