Aurelio Padovese

In a nutshell, tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in a humble family on the outskirts of São Paulo, Brazil. My mother, a housewife and spiritual guide, instilled in me values such as respect for diversity, solidarity and compassion. My father, a nature lover, introduced me to the wonders of the natural world, teaching me about camping, farming, and beekeeping. These experiences sparked a desire to pursue a career to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.

Who or what do you most admire?

The people I hold in the highest regard are the silent heroes of everyday life – those who, without seeking recognition, dedicate themselves to caring for the places and people around them, silently weaving the fabric of a better world through their selfless care and dedication.

How would you like to be remembered?

I hope to be remembered as someone who truly listened and contributed to others – a person who sought to bridge differences and foster understanding to create a more just and compassionate world for all people and every living being.

What inspires your vision of a better world?

I imagine a thriving planet where prosperity is shared, humour and continuous learning brighten our days and simple, local solutions meet the needs of communities. It’s a world where we prioritise harmony with nature and value life’s little pleasures, like enjoying a good cup of coffee while contemplating a beautiful landscape.

Name three things on your bucket list.

• To gather (at least once) all my family, friends, dogs and cats; I love in a big, comfortable country house
• Continue to visit at least two protected areas a year until the end of my life!
• Living in a small town in a farmhouse overlooking the sea and the Atlantic forest