Theme: Community | Weaving the Future

Humanity’s greatest strength has always been its capacity to come together. Across centuries, in the face of adversity, innovation, and transformation, it is through community that we have survived, rebuilt, and reimagined our world. This year, TEDxCatólica Lisbon invites you into a space where connection becomes creation—and where collective purpose becomes a catalyst for the future.

In an age defined by disruption and uncertainty, the power of community is more vital than ever. Not as a passive gathering, but as a living, breathing force—a web of reciprocity, resilience, and radical care. From grassroots movements to global networks, communities are the blueprint for sustainable progress, healing, and hope.

This event is a celebration of the unseen threads that bind us. The ones we inherit. The ones we build. And the ones we choose to weave into something greater. Whether forged through shared struggle or spontaneous joy, community is where empathy meets action—where individuals become ecosystems.

Join us as we explore how communities, in all their forms, are shaping the path forward. Together, let’s reflect, reimagine, and rise—through stories, ideas, and voices that prove one truth above all:

The future is not something we wait for.
It’s something we weave.
Together.

Impact Hub - Penha da França
Rua Neves Ferreira, 13, 3 Andar 1170-070
Lisboa, Lisboa, 1170-070
Portugal

Carlos Azevedo

Head Researcher | Yunus Social Innovation Centre

Carlos is Head of Research at the Yunus Social Innovation Centre and Adjunct Professor at Católica Lisbon. He previously led IES-Social Business School and co-founded ESLIDER-Portugal. With experience at INSEAD and EUCLID Network, he’s published multiple books on social innovation and nonprofit leadership.

Denise Silva

Head of communication Mundu Nôbu

Denise is a passionate communicator with a degree in Political Science and a Master’s in Communication Sciences from the Catholic University of Lisbon. She focuses on the intersection of marketing and social impact, currently leading communications and marketing at Mundu Nôbu to promote inclusion and reduce inequalities. She believes that purposeful communication drives change.

João Esteves

Founder & CEO | DiVERGE Sneakers

João Esteves is the Founder of DiVERGE, a customizable sneaker brand driving social and environmental impact. With over 20 years of experience in marketing and management across industries—from LEGO to Super Bock Group and Sport Zone—João launched DiVERGE in 2019 to combine innovation, ethics, and community empowerment. Made to order in Portugal, DiVERGE reimagines fashion as a force for good.

Lúcia Martins

Head of Volunteers | Apoio à Vida

Lúcia, 52, is the eldest of seven siblings and holds a degree in Social and Cultural Communication from UCP. With over 20 years of experience as a legal secretary, she is now the Volunteer and Logistics Coordinator at Apoio à Vida. In this role, Lúcia manages volunteer operations and logistics, playing a key part in supporting the organisation’s mission to provide assistance to those in need.

Madalena D´Orey

Founder | Terra dos sonhos

A cancer survivor turned changemaker, Madalena founded Terra dos Sonhos to fulfil the dreams of children with chronic and terminal illnesses. Today, as a Patient Advocate at CUF Tejo, she’s leading efforts to humanise healthcare through empathy, courage, and community care.

Marielen Winter

Founder | CEBRA Talent

Marielen co-founded CEBRA to empower the next generation of Impact Intrapreneurs - young talents transforming systems from within. With deep roots in sustainability, CSR, and inner development, she’s building bridges between people, purpose, and possibility.

Miguel Correia

President | Candeia

Miguel is a legal scholar and child rights advocate. As President of Candeia and coordinator of multiple care-focused initiatives, he’s dedicated to building systems of belonging, protection, and love for children and youth.

Nuno Comando

Director | Casa do Impacto

Nuno Comando is the Director of Casa do Impacto, Santa Casa’s leading hub for social innovation and entrepreneurship. With a background in Communication and further studies in Digital Marketing and Business Management, Nuno has been part of Casa do Impacto since its inception. Over the years, he has led its flagship programs in incubation, acceleration, and social investment—helping position Portugal as a growing force in the impact ecosystem. Passionate about inclusive entrepreneurship, Nuno works to democratise access to innovation with purpose.

Rita Megre

Leadership Director | Girl MOVE Academy

Rita Megre is the New Leadership Director at Girl MOVE Academy, a Mozambican organisation recognised by UNESCO for its innovative approach to female education and leadership. With a background in developing transformative educational programs, Rita has been instrumental in implementing Girl MOVE's intergenerational mentoring model. Her work focuses on empowering young women to become changemakers, fostering a cycle of positive impact within their communities.