Acting locally, connecting globally: Learning from Brazil 2019
This international conference on interpretation brought colleagues from across the world together in vibrant Rio de Janeiro. We shared stories, ideas, and inspiration drawn from the latest global trends—but perhaps the most enduring takeaway was the friendships forged along the way (sometimes over a caipirinha or two!).
The conference theme
The focus—“Acting Locally, Connecting Globally”—invited us to think about how interpreters can link efforts across professional boundaries, international borders, and cultural differences. It was a reminder that while our work is grounded in local stories and places, the challenges and opportunities of interpretation are truly global.
A golden feld trip
The highlight of the program was a field trip to Silver Jardim, home of the endangered Golden Lion Tamarin. Led by Luis Paulo Ferraz and his team at the Associação Mico-Leão-Dourado (AMLD), we experienced firsthand the challenges and successes of conserving this charismatic primate and the fragments of Atlantic Forest it depends on.
We also met Ayrton and Ana Violento at their organic family farm, Fazenda dos Cordeiros—a place where conservation, sustainable farming, and hospitality meet. Over a lavish Brazilian lunch, we learned how their farmstay business supports forest restoration, environmental education, and community projects.
Building connections
Beyond the field visits, conversations sparked new ideas for collaboration. A group of us began exploring ways to support AMLD’s interpretation at their visitor and research centre, and to help lift the profile of Fazenda dos Cordeiros’ farmstay. These connections may grow into an informal international interpretive working group—a living example of the conference theme in action.
Reflections
Brazil gave us more than professional insights. It reminded us that interpretation thrives on partnerships—between people, organisations, and landscapes. Acting locally while connecting globally is not just a theme; it’s a pathway for interpreters to make lasting impact, wherever we are in the world.
