Leo goes to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACtHR)

PIX to donate without fees (available in Brazil only): Leonardograp@gmail.com

Bank details to donate without fees:

SWIFT LUKBCH2260A

No. 2171.1944.2001 CHF

IBAN CH31 0077 8217 1194 4200 1

I am a last-year Bachelor of Laws student at the esteemed University of São Paulo (USP) in Brazil. My academic journey took an exciting turn during the spring semester of 2022 when I participated in an exchange program at the Universität Luzern in Switzerland. It was an enriching experience that expanded my understanding of legal systems and broadened my cultural horizons. I could afford this exchange just because of a crowdfunding campaign that garnered generous support from friends, family, and even strangers who believed in the value of expanding educational opportunities. 

While my academic pursuits have been fulfilling, my passion lies in advocating for human rights and social justice. This drive led me to take on various roles in the legal field, each contributing to my journey of making a difference.

In addition to my academic endeavors, I have been actively involved in practical advocacy work. As an intern at the Special Rapporteurship for Freedom of Expression of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, I monitored the state of freedom of expression across the hemisphere, working to ensure that the voices of all individuals are heard and respected.

My previous experiences have been equally impactful. I had the opportunity to intern at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, where I was involved in addressing individual complaints before the UN Treaty Bodies. Again, this experience was enabled by a crowdfunding campaign. Prior to that, I worked as a Human Rights Intern at Mattos Filho, a pioneering law firm dedicated to providing free legal assistance in human rights cases in Brazil.

One of the most meaningful experiences of my career was my time as a paralegal at Pogust Goodhead, where I contributed to securing compensation for the victims of the Mariana Dam disaster, one of the worst environmental disasters in Brazil's history. This experience reinforced my commitment to using the law as a tool for justice and accountability.

Academically, I have been actively engaged in research projects focused on human rights, poverty, and social justice. My involvement as a Coordinator of ProMigra's Legal Assistance Department allows me to directly contribute to the protection of migrant and refugee rights, a cause that resonates deeply with me as the child of a migrant myself.

Throughout my journey, I have sought to use my legal knowledge and skills to advocate for those whose voices are often marginalized or silenced. Whether it's through academic research, practical advocacy, or community engagement, I am committed to being a voice for justice and equality.

This journey has been a testament to my unwavering commitment to human rights and social justice. Now, as I stand on the threshold of a remarkable opportunity to further this cause, I need your support.

I am passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals whose rights are at risk. My dream is to continue advocating for justice on a larger scale by participating in a unique opportunity: working as an intern at the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACtHR).

However, pursuing this dream comes with its own set of challenges, particularly financial ones. The costs associated with traveling to the court and living in San José are substantial. That's why I am reaching out to you, my community of supporters, to contribute to my crowdfunding campaign.

Your support will not only help me fulfill my dream but also empower me to continue advocating for those who need it most. Together, we can work to ensure that every voice is heard, every right is protected, and every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

Join me on this journey to make a meaningful difference in the world. Your contribution, no matter how small, will have a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals. Thank you for your generosity and for standing with me in the fight for human rights.

Link to the expenses spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yahAy6Kma3uQeTHUMvJ3jwxK05P5I_d4x5zgoob4Iz8/edit?usp=sharing