About us

About us

Brazilian Cultural Institute

Brazilian Cultural Institute

The organization was created in 2001 (formerly Brazilian Arts Foundation) to preserve and promote Brazilian culture in the greater Houston metropolitan area.

In 2006, the organization established a cultural center in order to further develop and expand its program and performance offerings. Located in the historic Houston Heights, the center provides a home in which the Foundation offers the majority of its classes and workshops, as well as hosts events and educational programs.

In 2015 was able to secure a grant from the Houston Arts Alliance to create a new Strategic Plan for the next five years. The plan included finding a new space for our cultural center, hire more staff and change the organization’s name and logo and create a new website. We are very proud and excited to say that we were able to reach all of our goals successfully.

Brazilian Cultural Institute is funded in part by grants from the City of Houston through grants from the Houston Arts Alliance.

Houston Arts Alliance

Our Pillars

Mission Statement

Mission Statement

The Brazilian Cultural Institute is a non-profit organization that helps create citizens who are passionate about life and learning through the preservation and teaching of Brazilian culture to Greater Houston residents of all ages.

Statement of value

Statement of value

The Brazilian Cultural Institute cultivates a vibrant community of healthy, compassionate global citizens by sharing the diversity, heritage, inclusiveness and vibrancy of Brazilian culture.

Values

Values

We honor cultural heritage by embracing equality and inclusiveness among diverse populations and sharing our passion for life and learning. We embody respect for self, family and community and encourage personal growth through discipline, confidence and pride.

Our approach

  • The Energy! Immersion in a positive, vibrant space that brings out passion for life. Small victories. Everything becomes a celebration.
  • Family-building. This is not a solo pursuit. Everyone is important. All ages are welcome. It’s interactive – a circle, not a stage.
  • Self Expression & Leadership. This isn’t about following, it’s about bringing out your own creativity and style.
  • Aiming for Greatness. Challenge yourself from every angle. We’ll yank it out of you.
  • Rich, Vibrant Culture. Rooted in deep, cultural experiences that enrich your life. Learn the authentic expression and true heritage of the art.

Board of Directors

John Denson, CPA Chairman

Renata Contrucci Secretary

Steve Phelan Treasurer

Katia Lessa

Roberta Pitanga

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