Teachers
Rodrigo Ruschel, Eduardo dos Santos, and Valentin Conde offered the Cognitively Based Compassion Training (CBCT) to 45 social activists and educators in Brazil.
Community Impacted
This program was delivered to 45 participants, including educators, NGO leaders, and activists. The group represented individuals working in public schools, social justice initiatives, and community-based organizations throughout Brazil.
A significant portion of the participants were elementary school teachers from public schools, predominantly Black and mixed-race women, who face high emotional and professional demands while working with underserved and marginalized communities.
Why compassion is relevant
Educators and activists carry a heavy emotional burden. They are deeply committed to serving others, yet often lack support systems and self-care strategies to maintain their own well-being.
Compassion training provides essential tools for managing stress, preventing burnout, and fostering greater emotional intelligence and resilience. By helping educators and leaders strengthen self-awareness and mindfulness, CBCT not only improves their well-being but also enhances their ability to support and inspire their communities.
Motivation to serve this community
The facilitators have long recognized the emotional challenges faced by educators and NGO professionals. Their backgrounds in education, personal development, and NGO leadership allow them to bring compassion-based practices to professionals working in demanding and high-impact environments.
How were they impacted
- Increased self-awareness – Participants gained a clearer understanding of their emotional responses and stress triggers, leading to healthier coping mechanisms.
- Strengthened self-compassion – Many realized they had been neglecting their own well-being and learned to practice self-care without guilt.
- Improved relationships – Educators and activists became more mindful in their interactions, fostering deeper connections with students, colleagues, and communities.
- Expanded perspective – Participants developed a broader understanding of interdependence and the impact of compassion in social change.
Testimonials
- “Module on ‘Deepening Gratitude and Tenderness’ was particularly impactful. Expanding my perspective on others was a liberating experience. This training made me reflect deeply on my own beliefs and biases.” – Ludimilla de Paiva, School Coordinator
- “Before this course, I never prioritized self-care. CBCT helped me recognize how essential it is to set boundaries, reduce self-criticism, and be kinder to myself.” – Karine Vieira Mazzone, NGO Coordinator
- “This course changed the way I handle conflict. I now recognize my emotional patterns, and I am less reactive in difficult situations. I feel a greater sense of peace and control in my relationships.” – Amala Malaman, LGBTQIA+ Activist
- “I am deeply grateful for this opportunity. Compassion training has transformed my perspective. Supporting causes like this is the best way to build a more just, equitable, and kind society.” – Hans Mendonça, NGO Coordinator