Finding Purpose: Sharta’s Work for Migrant Rights in São Paulo

The streets of São Paulo tell countless stories of transformation, but few resonate as deeply as Sharta Mandjam’s. Born in Guinea-Bissau, her path led her to Brazil through the Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI), where she now pursues International Relations at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP). “Living in São Paulo has been challenging yet deeply rewarding,” she reflects.

Within São Paulo’s bustling metropolis, Sharta discovered more than just a second home – she found her calling in migrant rights advocacy. Through an internship with the Coordination of Public Policies for Immigrants (CPMig) at São Paulo’s City Hall, she witnessed firsthand the daily challenges faced by migrant communities. “Migrating is not a crime; it’s a fundamental human right,” she states, her understanding deeply rooted in the realities of irregular migration in Sub-Saharan Africa and her home country. “Young people risk everything in search of opportunities, often unaware of the dangers,” she observes. This understanding fuels her tireless advocacy for safer migration pathways – initiatives that protect families and strengthen communities.

This work has become Sharta’s kokorozashi, her life’s mission. “As an international student I feel I’m on the right path by working to improve conditions for others,” she shares. Looking ahead, she envisions a future dedicated to advancing human rights, focusing on migration and social integration.
“The future is uncertain, but I remain open to opportunities aligned with my purpose,” she states. Through her dedication and compassion, Sharta Mandjam continues to inspire change and champion the rights of migrants worldwide.