Leonardo Dias

Leonardo Dias Email and Phone Number

Social Impact Leader | Philanthropy & Grant Writing Expert | Forbes BLK Member | NYU Abu Dhabi Student @ ForbesBLK
Leonardo Dias's Location
São Paulo, Brazil, Brazil
About Leonardo Dias

I was raised in Favela do Eldorado, one of São Paulo’s poorest regions, where opportunities were scarce, but hope was abundant. As an Afro-Brazilian, bisexual, first-generation student, my trajectory is proof of the transformative power of education, social programs, and resilience. From navigating inequality in my early years to shaping my career across philanthropy, education, health, sports, and climate change, I’ve been driven by one goal: creating pathways for others to experience the same social ascension that changed my life.As a student of Economics, Political Science, and Public Policy at New York University, I’ve had the privilege to live and work across continents—from the United Arab Emirates and the United States to the United Kingdom and Brazil. These experiences have not only honed my skills but also opened my eyes to diverse perspectives, teaching me the art of leading through dissent and collaboration. Whether working with underrepresented students in Brazil or drafting high-stakes grant proposals for global foundations, I’ve always aimed to drive systemic change in unequal societies.From securing millions in funding for public education initiatives to crafting strategic philanthropic partnerships, my professional focus is on ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and strategically to drive lasting, systemic impact. In every role, I bridge the gap between private-sector innovation, third-sector flexibility, and government policy to tackle issues such as AI disruption, mental health, and climate resilience.I believe in the power of anticipation—being ahead of our time, and preparing today for tomorrow's challenges. As a professional rooted in social impact, I’m committed to designing and executing projects that don't just address the issues of today but anticipate the critical challenges of the future. My journey is one of transforming the obstacles of inequality into stepping stones for progress—for myself, for those I work with, and for the communities I serve.

Leonardo Dias's Current Company Details
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Social Impact Leader | Philanthropy & Grant Writing Expert | Forbes BLK Member | NYU Abu Dhabi Student
Leonardo Dias Work Experience Details
  • Forbesblk
    Forbes Blk Member
    Forbesblk Dec 2024 - Present
    In December 2024, I was selected as the youngest member of the UAE cohort of Forbes BLK, a global community of Black leaders, creators, and changemakers driving systemic change across industries. As one of just 10 members selected from the UAE, this achievement highlights my commitment to leveraging education, philanthropy, and innovation to address critical social challenges. Through collaboration and access to this dynamic network, I aim to amplify impactful initiatives that promote equity, opportunity, and sustainable development worldwide.
  • Aspire Institute
    Aspire Leaders Program Fellow
    Aspire Institute Dec 2024 - Present
  • Pulse Mais
    Education, Development And Philanthropy Consultant
    Pulse Mais Nov 2024 - Present
    São Paulo, Brazil
    At Instituto Pulse Mais, I spearheaded the development of a project proposal for an AI-driven mentoring chatbot designed to equip young professionals with the skills and guidance necessary to thrive in the tech industry. This initiative aimed to bridge knowledge gaps and democratize access to career-building resources in the technology sector. Additionally, I led the end-to-end production, recording, and editing of three comprehensive 15-hour courses focused on essential hard skills for aspiring technology professionals. By collaborating closely with industry leaders, including Microsoft, I ensured the content met the highest standards of relevance and quality, addressing the real demands of the tech job market. These efforts significantly strengthened the institute’s capacity to deliver impactful, scalable solutions for workforce development and professional empowerment.
  • Instituto Reúna
    International Philanthropy Consultant And Grant Writer
    Instituto Reúna Aug 2024 - Present
    Brazil
    As an International Philanthropy Consultant and Grant Writer at Instituto Reúna, I was tasked with enhancing the quality of the organization's grant proposals, which had previously lacked a cohesive narrative and critical grant-writing techniques. I worked closely with the fundraising and project development teams to understand both the financial landscape and the specifics of the proposed projects. My role involved introducing advanced research methods, including triangulation, case studies, and qualitative and mixed-methods research, to create proposals with strong conceptual frameworks. Through in-depth discussions and field observations, I identified gaps in the current research approach and ensured that each proposal aligned with the institute’s broader goals. Although the outcomes of these six proposals, valued in the thousands of US dollars, are still pending, my work has equipped the organization with a solid narrative for engaging external stakeholders and potential funders, significantly strengthening its long-term positioning.
  • Instituto Duclima
    Philanthropy Consultant
    Instituto Duclima Aug 2024 - Present
    Brazil
    As a Philanthropy Consultant for Instituto DuClima, I was tasked with enhancing the organization’s approach to environmental education and climate adaptation through targeted grant proposals. My role involved not only developing compelling narratives but also introducing a sustainable fundraising model for the NGO, leveraging both national and international foundations. By integrating environmental education with the fight against environmental racism, I ensured that the projects addressed the most pressing issues in Brazil’s socio-environmental landscape. Through close collaboration with the team, I identified key funding opportunities and crafted proposals that aligned the institute’s vision with global funding priorities. While focusing on sustainability, I also worked to secure individual sponsorships and developed long-term partnerships with stakeholders invested in climate action. These efforts have provided Instituto DuClima with a stronger strategic position to secure funding and further its mission of combating climate injustice.
  • Instituto G&G
    Vice-President And Board Member
    Instituto G&G Jun 2024 - Present
    São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
  • Instituto G&G
    Executive Manager
    Instituto G&G Oct 2023 - Jun 2024
    As the Executive Manager at Instituto G&G, I spearheaded the organization's expansion from operating in a single region to reaching 22 states across Brazil. My leadership transformed the institute’s mentoring program, securing over $590,000 in scholarships for underprivileged students, which resulted in numerous prestigious national and international recognitions. I led a team of 60 people, overseeing both strategic and operational efforts to maximize our impact on public education. A major part of my role was fostering high-value partnerships, including a collaboration with historian Yuval Harari’s organization, Sapienship, which significantly boosted program visibility and support.To adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, I led the institute's digital transformation, ensuring continued support for our students despite the challenges. I also pioneered a groundbreaking program to improve school climates in São Paulo, working with NGO Parceiros da Educação to tackle issues such as student dropout rates and infrequent attendance. Additionally, I secured $25,000 for institutional development, which allowed the hiring of a full-time team and laid the foundation for sustainable growth. These efforts have solidified Instituto G&G’s role as a key player in the fight for educational equity in Brazil.
  • New York University Abu Dhabi
    Student Embassy Ambassador Liaison For Brazil
    New York University Abu Dhabi Feb 2024 - Present
    Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates
    As the Student Embassy Ambassador Liaison for Brazil at New York University Abu Dhabi, I was selected to represent the Brazilian student body and act as the primary point of contact between the university and the Brazilian Diplomatic Corps in the United Arab Emirates. In this role, I am developing a new channel of communication to foster stronger relations between the Brazilian Embassy and NYU Abu Dhabi. My responsibilities include coordinating cultural and educational events, facilitating discussions on key issues affecting Brazilian students, and creating opportunities for diplomatic engagement and collaboration. This role allows me to serve as a bridge between academia and diplomacy, promoting a deeper understanding and cooperation between both institutions.
  • Fundação Estudar
    Líderes Estudar Fellow
    Fundação Estudar Jul 2021 - Present
    As one of 34 selected from a pool of 50,867 applicants, I was honored to join Fundação Estudar’s prestigious Líder Estudar program in 2021. Over the past three years, I have actively engaged in this leadership development initiative, which fosters the growth of Brazil’s next generation of changemakers. Through intensive training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, I have leveraged the program’s resources to deepen my impact across philanthropy, education, and social change.In 2023, I was recognized as the "Most Engaged Leader" at the Annual Meeting in New York City, a testament to my proactive approach in mobilizing and inspiring fellow Líder Estudar participants. This recognition reflects my commitment to driving meaningful action and contributing to the foundation’s mission of developing high-potential leaders who will transform Brazil. My time in the program has been marked by the constant pursuit of personal and professional growth, allowing me to apply innovative leadership techniques across various sectors while building strong networks for future collaboration.
  • Fundação Estudar
    Summer Intern
    Fundação Estudar Jun 2023 - Aug 2023
    São Paulo, Brazil
    As a Summer Intern at Fundação Estudar, I played a pivotal role in expanding the foundation’s funding base by establishing connections with new grantmakers and stakeholders. My responsibilities included developing and submitting grant proposals, one of which secured a $400,000 award from Nubank, marking the largest intern-led fundraising success in the foundation’s 32-year history. I worked closely with the foundation’s development team to identify funding gaps and crafted compelling proposals that aligned with the foundation’s mission to empower young leaders in Brazil. In addition to fundraising, I contributed to refining the foundation’s approach to donor engagement and stewardship, helping to strengthen long-term partnerships. My contributions not only increased the foundation’s financial capacity but also positioned it for future growth, ensuring continued support for its programs aimed at developing the next generation of Brazilian leaders.
  • Brasa - Brazilian Student Association
    Brasa Next'S Mentee
    Brasa - Brazilian Student Association May 2023 - Present
    As a Mentee in the BRASA Next Program, I was selected to join the 2023 cohort, where I have had the opportunity to be mentored by Naira Santa Rita Wayand de Almeida, the founder of the Movimento ESG Antirracista and InstitutoDuClima, as well as a sustainability analyst at Americanas S.A. Under her guidance, I have gained insights into ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks, sustainability strategies, and the intersection of corporate responsibility and social justice. This mentorship has provided me with a deeper understanding of how to implement impactful sustainability initiatives that align with corporate goals while addressing critical social issues, particularly racial equity. The program has been instrumental in shaping my approach to leadership and social impact, equipping me with the skills and network needed to further my career in sustainability and social innovation.
  • Brasa - Brazilian Student Association
    Community Development Analyst For Brasa Blacks Honorees
    Brasa - Brazilian Student Association Mar 2023 - Feb 2024
    Brazil
    As a Community Development Analyst for BRASA Blacks, I played a key role in managing the 2023 BRASA Blacks Honors Program, a prestigious initiative supporting high-achieving Black Brazilian students. My primary responsibility was overseeing the selection process, ensuring that the program identified and supported candidates with the highest potential to excel academically and professionally. I led a comprehensive review process that considered not only academic excellence but also leadership potential and social impact.In addition to selection, I provided ongoing academic, professional, psychological, and financial support to the network of scholars throughout their fellowship. By maintaining regular contact and fostering a supportive environment, I ensured that each scholar had the resources and mentorship needed to succeed in their academic pursuits and personal development. This holistic approach to student support contributed to the overall success and well-being of the scholars, empowering them to thrive in both local and international settings. My work directly contributed to BRASA Blacks’ mission of elevating Black Brazilian talent and building a community of future leaders.
  • Instituto Ismart
    Talent Fellowship Member
    Instituto Ismart Jan 2018 - Present
    Sorocaba, São Paulo
    As a Bolsista Talento at ISMART, I was one of 245 students selected from a pool of 11,165 applicants to receive a full-ride scholarship to study at Colégio Uirapuru in Sorocaba. This prestigious scholarship not only provided access to a high-quality education but also offered comprehensive support in personal and academic development. Throughout the program, I honed my leadership skills and academic excellence, participating in various extracurricular activities aimed at enhancing my global perspective and problem-solving abilities. My time at Colégio Uirapuru, backed by ISMART's rigorous mentorship, laid a solid foundation for my future endeavors in higher education, social impact, and leadership roles both in Brazil and abroad.
  • Instituto Ismart
    Admissions Reviewer
    Instituto Ismart Oct 2023 - Jul 2024
    As an Admissions Reviewer, I was responsible for evaluating application videos and essays for the Bolsa Talento and Bolsa Alicerce programs, covering candidates from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais. My role involved assessing each applicant’s academic achievements, personal narratives, and potential for future growth to ensure that the most promising and deserving candidates were selected for these prestigious scholarship programs. I applied rigorous criteria to identify candidates who demonstrated not only strong academic performance but also leadership qualities and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. Through this process, I contributed to the selection of a new generation of scholars who have the potential to drive social change and educational excellence in Brazil.
  • Telles Foundation
    Telles Fellow
    Telles Foundation Aug 2021 - Present
  • Instituto Rio Aquatics
    Education And Development Intern
    Instituto Rio Aquatics Jun 2024 - Nov 2024
    Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
    As an Education and Development Intern at Instituto Rio Aquatics, I managed the scholarship program for high school and English language studies for 15 student-athletes from underprivileged communities in Rio de Janeiro. My responsibilities included coordinating individual donors, corporate sponsors, and project submissions for fundraising, ensuring the program's financial sustainability. I worked closely with students and their families to provide not only access to education but also comprehensive support for their overall development, balancing their academic and athletic commitments.I facilitated strategic partnerships, such as collaborating with the Municipal Education Department of Rio de Janeiro and the GET school network, and recruited tutors for Portuguese and mathematics support. Additionally, I launched a new academic support initiative, benefiting over 35 students, and created a selective process from scratch that attracted more than 100 applicants for scholarships in English and at private schools like Colégio Pensi and Elite. I developed a system to monitor scholarship recipients’ academic performance, enabling individualized follow-up and adjustments to pedagogical actions based on each student's needs.Furthermore, I conducted interviews with athletes to produce video and written content for institutional materials, strengthening the Institute’s connection with the community and enhancing its visibility. I wrote national and international calls for funding to expand resource mobilization opportunities and facilitated a partnership with the sports festival O Rei e Rainha do Mar, recognized as the largest event of its kind worldwide. These initiatives broadened the program’s impact and relevance in the community, fostering inclusion through sports and education and strengthening the Institute’s relationships with key partners.
  • Brasa - Brazilian Student Association
    Mentor
    Brasa - Brazilian Student Association Aug 2022 - Jan 2023
    Brazil
    As a Mentor for BRASA, I guided high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds through the complex process of applying to elite universities in the United States. My responsibilities included providing personalized mentoring on various aspects of the college application process, such as essay writing, standardized test preparation, and navigating financial aid and scholarship opportunities. By leveraging my own experience as an international student, I helped mentees craft compelling narratives that highlighted their unique stories, backgrounds, and academic achievements. My mentorship empowered these students to successfully apply to top-tier institutions, breaking barriers and opening doors to educational opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
  • New York University Abu Dhabi
    Social Media Manager
    New York University Abu Dhabi Aug 2022 - Dec 2022
    Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
    As a Social Media Manager at New York University Abu Dhabi, I managed the university’s social media presence, focusing on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. My role involved creating and curating over 200 pieces of content aimed at engaging the university’s global student body. Through strategic content creation, I increased visibility and engagement, with posts amassing more than 500,000 views and over 300,000 likes. I focused on promoting educational initiatives, campus events, and student life, ensuring that content was aligned with the university’s values and goals. This experience honed my skills in digital marketing, content strategy, and audience engagement, contributing to a stronger and more vibrant online presence for NYU Abu Dhabi.
  • Apply Prep
    Mentor
    Apply Prep Jan 2022 - Dec 2022
    Brazil
    As a Mentor at Apply! Prep Consulting, I guided high-achieving students from various backgrounds, especially in North Brazil, through the complex process of applying to elite universities in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. My role was to provide personalized mentoring on every aspect of the application process, from essay writing and standardized test preparation to interview coaching and scholarship applications. By leveraging my own experience as a first-generation student, I helped these students craft compelling narratives that highlighted their unique backgrounds and achievements. My mentorship resulted in significant success: the students I worked with were awarded scholarships worth millions of reais, enabling them to access educational opportunities at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions. This work not only empowered these students to break cycles of inequality but also strengthened my commitment to promoting educational equity on a global scale.
  • Impulso Gov
    Summer Intern
    Impulso Gov Jun 2022 - Aug 2022
    São Paulo, Brazil
    As a Summer Intern at Impulso Gov, I played a key role in identifying and engaging with over 60 new funding sources, aligning the organization’s projects with both national and international philanthropic trends. My primary responsibility was to develop a sustainable financial model that could support the long-term goals of the NGO. I worked closely with the leadership team to understand the organization’s core needs and crafted a $40 million grant proposal to the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES), which was successfully approved. This grant significantly boosted the organization’s capacity to implement large-scale projects within the Brazilian public healthcare system, particularly in underserved regions in the North and Northeast. My contributions helped position Impulso Gov as a leading organization in the health sector, with a strong financial foundation to sustain its initiatives.More information: https://juntospelasaude.org.br/en/
  • Instituto Ismart
    Mentor
    Instituto Ismart Jan 2021 - Dec 2021
    Brazil
    As a Mentor at Ismartanos Pelo Mundo (IPL), an initiative led by students from ISMART Institute who study abroad, I guided high-school students through the complex college admission process for international universities. I worked closely with students from various regions of Brazil, providing personalized support to help them navigate the application process. My responsibilities included proofreading essays, reviewing complete admission files, and offering tailored advice on how to strengthen their applications. By leveraging my own experience as an international student, I was able to provide practical insights and tips to help these students excel in their applications, ultimately empowering them to pursue higher education opportunities abroad.
  • Instituto G&G
    Executive Director
    Instituto G&G Apr 2021 - Aug 2021
  • Instituto G&G
    Vice Executive Director
    Instituto G&G Feb 2020 - Apr 2021
    Sorocaba, São Paulo
  • Instituto G&G
    Head Of Didactic Planning Team
    Instituto G&G Jan 2019 - Feb 2020
    Sorocaba, São Paulo
  • Mapa Educação
    Municipal Leader
    Mapa Educação Jul 2020 - Dec 2020
    As a Municipal Leader for Mapa Educação, I volunteered to engage young people in Sorocaba, leading local educational initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education in the city. My role involved mobilizing students, educators, and community members to participate in discussions about educational policies and to advocate for meaningful changes in the local education system. I coordinated educational workshops and community outreach programs, fostering a sense of civic responsibility among young people and empowering them to take an active role in shaping the future of education in Sorocaba. Through this work, I contributed to building a stronger, more inclusive educational environment, ensuring that the voices of young people were heard in local decision-making processes.
  • Vozes Da Educação Consulting
    Research Mentor
    Vozes Da Educação Consulting Jul 2020 - Dec 2020
  • Vozes Da Educação Consulting
    Associate Researcher
    Vozes Da Educação Consulting Apr 2020 - Dec 2020
    Brazil
    As an Associate Researcher at Vozes da Educação, I contributed to a major research project focused on the impact of COVID-19 on public education policies across 10 Brazilian states. My role involved collecting and analyzing data from over 70 leading institutions, helping to create a comprehensive platform that was later utilized by the World Bank. I worked closely with policymakers and educational leaders to assess how the pandemic disrupted educational systems and to propose actionable solutions. Through rigorous data analysis, I was able to identify critical gaps in the government’s response to the pandemic, which informed new strategies for remote learning and resource allocation. This research played a crucial role in shaping national dialogues on education during the pandemic and provided essential insights to guide future policy-making efforts in Brazil.
  • Inicie
    Tutor Student
    Inicie 2018 - 2019
    As an Tutor Student for Google For Education, I played an active role in the 2019 Educator’s Summit in São Paulo, where I helped organize the event and served as a panelist. My contributions included coordinating logistics for the summit and engaging with educators and professionals to ensure a smooth flow of the event. As a panelist, I shared my personal educational experiences and insights on how technology and digital tools can enhance the learning experience for students, particularly in underserved communities. This opportunity allowed me to advocate for the importance of inclusive education and the role of technology in transforming classroom dynamics. My participation in this summit not only contributed to the event's success but also enhanced my public speaking and leadership skills, while positioning me as a voice for innovation in education.

Leonardo Dias Education Details

Frequently Asked Questions about Leonardo Dias

What company does Leonardo Dias work for?

Leonardo Dias works for Forbesblk

What is Leonardo Dias's role at the current company?

Leonardo Dias's current role is Social Impact Leader | Philanthropy & Grant Writing Expert | Forbes BLK Member | NYU Abu Dhabi Student.

What schools did Leonardo Dias attend?

Leonardo Dias attended New York University, New York University Abu Dhabi, Colégio Uirapuru, Cultura Inglesa, Colégio Bandeirantes, Fundação Dom Cabral, Fundação Dom Cabral, Colégio Magno/mágico De Oz, Explo, Prof. Aggêo Pereira Do Amaral State School.

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