Description

On the transformation of a favela--an urban success story on the Brazilian coast

This illustrated volume documents the transformation of the favela M e Lu za, as an example of how to build community, create citizenship and identity, and promote initiative and participation. Alongside a story by Brazilian author Paulo Lins, short articles and essays trace the history of M e Lu za from the point of view of local activists, as well as invited authors from various fields.
With roughly 15,000 inhabitants, M e Lu za, located near the ocean in the Brazilian city of Natal, is a favela with all the familiar grievances. In 1984, Italian transplant Padre Sabino Gentili founded the Centro S cio. With community participation, the Centro created much-needed social infrastructure. After Padre Sabino's death, the Ameropa Foundation further invested in the infrastructure--efforts that culminated in the construction of a sports arena and a music school designed by Swiss architects, facilities usually lacking on the Brazilian peripheries.