Mikael Ferreira

In a nutshell, tell us about yourself

I’m a Potiguar and a Nordestino from Brazil. I was born in one of the smallest states in Brazil, in a region marked by social contradictions but with incredible natural beauty. Despite this, from an early age I always wanted to go out into the world and discover new places. That’s why I ended up studying international relations and dedicated myself to working to improve people’s lives. To maximise this, I came to Germany to study for a Master’s degree in Public Policy at the University of Erfurt. I’ve worked for NGOs (ChildFund Brasil) and a local Brazilian government (Governo do Maranhão). In the latter I worked directly with protected areas and environmental issues, and soon realised that this was what I wanted to work with. My work at E Co. allows me to continue along this road.

What are you most proud of?
My mum and her family. My grandparents left the interior of our state (Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil) due to several droughts and food shortages (this was over 40 years ago, but even today this still happens). They had 8 children, including my mum, and a dream of a better life. I’m here today thanks to them and I’m very proud of them.

What drives you to do this kind of work?

Hope. I know I am just a small part of a big system, but I hope I can help improve the lives of people around the world.

What is the title of your perfect work project?
“Untouched Land Project: Prohibiting Deforestation and Degradation in All Brazilian Biomes”

Name three things on your wish list.
Travelling to Mongolia, visiting the Amazon and diving among coral reefs.

Which book changed your life?
Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne. It was the first book I read in my life that made me love literature.