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THE MANANA PROJECT is inspired by the journey of Co-Founder Antonio de Freitas, who grew up in a low-income neighborhood in Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro. Leaving school as a teenager to support his family, Antonio found hope and opportunity through Samba, music, and dance—experiences that would eventually lead him to build a successful Latin American entertainment company in the UK.

Antonio, like many of Oi Brasil’s performers and instructors, has witnessed first-hand the power of music and dance to transform lives, especially for those growing up in communities where opportunities can be limited and exposure to violence of the gangs is a daily reality.

 

The arts provide positive alternatives—offering employment, personal growth, and a sense of belonging. This belief in the power of creativity, joy, and strong community bonds—so often found in Latin American culture—drives THE MANANA PROJECT’s vision of cultural empowerment.

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Across Latin America, communities facing hardship often display remarkable joy, resilience, and a strong sense of togetherness. Studies show that these community bonds and shared cultural experiences are key to happiness and well-being—something much needed in today’s world.

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Inspired by the inclusivity and accessibility of Brazil’s Capoeira and Samba schools, as well as Cuba’s model of arts education, MANANA aims to share this spirit by making music, dance, and the arts accessible to all. We are committed to fostering connection, creativity, hope, and cultural empowerment—regardless of background, ability, or circumstance.

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