The Transformative Power of Gathering Together

As I wait to board my flight to S?o Paulo for AVA Lat-Am, taking place from December 5–8, I’m struck by the significance of the journey ahead. This is not merely a professional obligation or a logistical challenge—it’s an opportunity to witness and contribute to something extraordinary.

In-person advocacy events like AVA Lat-Am are far more than conferences. They are crucibles where ideas are tested, networks are forged, and the seeds of transformative change are planted. As someone privileged to work on the programming for this event, I am reminded of the unique role these gatherings play in uniting advocates across borders to pursue our shared mission: ending the suffering and exploitation of non-human animals.

The program for AVA Lat-Am has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the diversity of the animal advocacy movement across Latin America. From grassroots activism to high-level policy discussions, each session offers something valuable to every attendee, regardless of where they are in their journey. This program is not just about providing information—it’s about empowering individuals and organizations to take strategic, impactful action.

Yet the real magic of these events lies in the connections outside the formal sessions. The conversations sparked over coffee, the collaborations formed during lunch breaks, and the moments of solidarity emerged in shared spaces. These moments remind us of the collective strength of our movement and the unshakable bonds that unite us across geographies and languages.

As animal advocates, we face immense challenges. The scope of the suffering we seek to alleviate can feel overwhelming, and the urgency of our work leaves little time for reflection or renewal. In-person events like AVA Lat-Am offer a rare and essential space to pause, connect, and recharge. They remind us that we are not alone in this work but part of a global movement fueled by compassion, innovation, and resilience.

For me, this event is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of creating spaces where advocates can come together to share ideas, inspire one another, and build lasting partnerships. I am proud to have forged a program and created meaningful engagement and growth opportunities.

As I prepare to board my flight, I do so with profound optimism. AVA Lat-Am is more than an event; it catalyzes change. It is where advocates from diverse backgrounds will come together to advance a common goal, strengthen our collective impact, and envision a future where justice for all beings is realized.

I look forward to reconnecting with familiar faces, meeting new ones, and witnessing the extraordinary work that will emerge from our time together. Together, we will continue to build a movement that is effective, deeply connected, collaborative, and driven by hope.

See you in S?o Paulo. The future of animal advocacy starts here.