We live in an increasingly digital world. Since the pandemic, we have learned to connect via screens, and this has brought countless advantages: more autonomy, less travel, reduced costs, and even a lower environmental impact. In our projects, this flexibility allows people from different regions to collaborate without geographical barriers, facilitating processes and optimizing resources.
But there’s one thing that digital can’t completely replace: the power of eye-to-eye. It is in face-to-face meetings that we strengthen deep connections, build trust, and reinforce a sense of belonging. Physical presence enables spontaneous exchange, insights that emerge over coffee, gestures that show support, and the collective energy that motivates and engages.
At Raízes, we understand that strategic meetings make all the difference, both in internal management and in projects with beneficiaries, clients, and partners. More than meetings, they are moments for alignment, co-creation, and strengthening the relationships that underpin our work. And recently, we’ve had two meetings that reinforce this importance.
Raízes Immersion 2025: planning and connection by the sea
Between February 5 and 8, we gathered our permanent team, managers, and consultants in Porto Seguro, Bahia, for an intense immersion. There were four days dedicated to strategic planning for 2025, discussions on innovation, automation, and management, as well as the creation of content that will be shared over the coming months. Each conversation helped shape the path we wanted to follow, ensuring that our actions were aligned with Raízes’ values and mission.
And, of course, there was time to strengthen ties outside the meeting room. Between the beach, the swimming pool, and a visit to Indigenous Aldeia Indígena Pataxó Juerana – beneficiary of the 2nd edition of CI-Brasil ‘s mentoring for small businesses – we experienced what we believe in practice: building collectively is more powerful when we are together. These informal moments are just as valuable as structured discussions, as they allow us to see each other not just as professionals, but as people who share a common purpose.
Take a look at some of these moments in our latest video on social media.
Closing meeting of the 2nd edition of CI-Brasil’s Small Business Mentoring Program
In the same week, another face-to-face meeting reaffirmed the importance of these connections. The closing event of 2nd edition of CI-Brasil’s Small Business Mentorships brought together representatives of the 20 supported businesses, Futuri ‘s partners, and our team represented by Tauana Costa, creating a space for exchange and learning. These were days of rich conversations, where each business was able to share its achievements and challenges, further strengthening the network of support and collaboration.
To close this journey on a high note, we visited the Abrolhos Archipelago, where the connection with nature was combined with the connection between people. The experience reinforced the impact of the project and the importance of collective work. These moments of celebration and recognition are key to renewing energy and moving forward with greater motivation and clarity.
We’ll share more details about the results of this initiative soon.
The balance between digital and face-to-face
Technology is a great ally in our routine. It allows us to work remotely, reduce travel, and make processes more efficient. But at the same time, we understand that face-to-face meetings are irreplaceable for building solid relationships and driving real change. They are spaces for deep exchange, where belonging is strengthened and ideas come to life differently from what happens in the virtual environment.
The secret lies in balance. We continue to value digital for its practicality, but without giving up the power of face-to-face. After all, it is in this encounter – between glances, gestures, and spontaneous conversations – that the most meaningful connections happen.
