From October 10 to 12, 2024, the second edition of the BeDoCare international seminar was held in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This event brought together experts and representatives from the Third Sector from around the world. Hosted at the ISE Business School, the seminar provided an important platform for discussion on key aspects related to social work, solidarity, and the contribution of the Third Sector to development promotion.

BeDoCare was created two years ago as one of the initiatives to prepare for the Centennial Jubilee of the founding of Opus Dei and to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of Harambee Africa International. In line with Harambee’s values, the initiative aims to foster meetings and exchange of experiences between socially engaged individuals and organizations, promoting collaboration and creating innovative synergies to meet the needs of the most vulnerable communities.

During the event, participants attended lectures and roundtable discussions on various topics, including resource management, communication, fundraising, and partnership creation. The social realities of less developed countries and the challenges faced by Third Sector organizations were also discussed.

A highlight of the seminar was the lecture given by Monsignor Mariano Fazio, Auxiliary Vicar of Opus Dei, who spoke about the social message and legacy of St. Josemaría Escrivá, founder of Opus Dei, on the fiftieth anniversary of his visit to Latin America. Monsignor Fazio recalled how St. Josemaría taught that a consistent Christian cannot remain indifferent to the problems of his community but must be actively involved in their resolution.

This spirit is reflected in the mission of Harambee, which is committed to supporting social promotion, education, health, and food security projects in Africa. Monsignor Fazio emphasized the importance of respecting different opinions in social dialogue, highlighting that everyone’s contribution is essential for the development of a just and supportive society, provided these opinions respect the dignity and right to life of every person.

BeDoCare, through its seminar, continues to inspire constructive dialogue and concrete action in the Third Sector, also thanks to its connection with the legacy of Harambee, which for over twenty years has been promoting development projects in Africa based on values of solidarity and cooperation.