Complexo da Maré

In partnership with AfroReggae and local community leaders in Rio de Janeiro, Project Brillo’s first mission focused on creativity, technology, and education.

The project was built around two parallel initiatives designed to create long-term opportunity and meaningful local impact.

The first part of the project supported the renovation of Studio Tris Tattoo, helping transform the space into a functioning creative studio and community-centered environment. Our team assisted directly with design, rebuilding, and restoration efforts to help support local artists and creative work within the community. The renevation was fully funded by funds raised by Project Brillo.

The second initiative takes place in Complexo da Maré in collaboration with AfroReggae and AfroGames. Together, we developed an AI education program that introduces local educators and students to emerging technology, creative coding, and digital tools. The program focuses on practical and accessible learning experiences that connect artificial intelligence with creativity, video game development, and future career opportunities.

Funds raised through the campaign helped provide laptops, graphic cards, and educational technology for students and educators participating in the program. AfroReggae contributed local coordination, infrastructure, and community support, while Project Brillo provided curriculum development, hardware support, and educational resources.

Following the successful fundraiser, Project Brillo leadership team members Lucca Schmidt, Zachary Greez, and Samo Darwish traveled to Brazil to oversee the creation of a collaborative community mural and lead the AI video game creation course for educators in Complexo da Maré.

What began as a grassroots fundraising effort evolved into Project Brillo