Question#1 What was your company’s distinctive strategy for incorporating technology to meet UN Sustainable Development Goal?
In Brazil, the search for employment for young people in the community occurs through someone’s recommendation. Or when they go out in the streets looking for a job or go to job fairs. Thus, Catch’s technology involves the registration of skills. It searches for neighborhoods or places that most need the skills and connects the young person to the person who needs the service.
We also use their commute, either to a location near them or the route they are taking. Find people who need your skills. All in a simple and automatic way, so that the young person is not left without an opportunity, and we can reduce the waiting time from one opportunity to the next.
Question#2 What challenges did you face while working on your project/ initiative, and how did you overcome them?
The primary challenge lies in the presence of social prejudice on both sides. Firstly, there are young individuals within the community who initially have doubts about Catch’s proposal. To address this, we found it crucial to present testimonials from other young people who had successfully found employment opportunities through Catch. These testimonials served as valuable evidence of the positive impact and credibility of our platform. Secondly, there are individuals who require the services provided by Catch but may feel uncertain or unsafe. To alleviate their concerns, we showcased the qualifications and feedback from others who had utilized the service. This approach aimed to instill confidence in potential users, encouraging them to trust and make use of Catch.
Question#3 How did you involve local communities and stakeholders in your work, and what was their response?
When I needed the first service and realized the excellence of the young man and the service provided, it was my first business involvement. After that, I participated in actions in the communities. From Children’s Day to other actions and I understood the strength they have in being solidary with each other. At first, it was not easy to accept me and much less Catch, but with the help of community leaders and social influencers, little by little, it became possible.
Question#4 Which organizational skills and assets can be harnessed to provide its goods/services without negative environmental and social impacts?
n our company, we value meetings for new ideas, suggestions, and criticism, fostering continuous improvement and recognizing everyone’s contributions. This mindset drives skill development and societal impact. Through technology and knowledge, we strive to make a difference, both socially and environmentally. We are proud to lead multiple companies focused on SDG 3 and 4, aiming to share our progress soon. Our community’s strength is evident in our marketing strategy, utilizing local skills for community benefitting services. We prioritize positive social impact, as reflected in our business model. Skilled young individuals with higher scores and positive feedback receive greater recognition and nominations.
Question#5 What is the role of businesses, governments, and civil society in achieving the SDGs, and how can they work together?
Collaboration is key. Governments should incentivize companies and industries to dedicate time to SDG collaboration. Government events can engage students in solving city or population challenges using their technology and knowledge. Companies can foster dialogue, ideas, and suggestions for workplace and community improvements aligned with the SDGs. I personally allocate time to discuss SDGs in public schools, inspiring students to develop projects like water treatment systems that benefit the environment and local tourism. By sharing knowledge and taking action, we can make a significant impact on people’s lives. Let’s unite in our conviction to achieve the Millennium Goals.
Question#6 What impact has your project had, and what are your future goals?
Our impact is profound, reaching economically disadvantaged individuals, particularly vulnerable youth. We aim to rewrite their stories by providing opportunities for dignity, self-esteem, and financial independence. Our goal is to empower each beneficiary of CATCH to become a catalyst for others. We offer an alternative to a life of crime, inspiring positive change and stronger communities.
Question#7 What advice do you have for individuals/organizations seeking to create positive change and contribute to the SDGs?
Change begins every day when we start to realize that we need to think more about others, about our planet, and about the legacy we want to leave the world. This movement already exists among many people, companies, and industries even before we talk about the SDGs. However, they were isolated movements and many of them had no strength or visibility for other people to be inspired and multiply. With the goals of the SDGs, it is easier to define how your company, person, school, or industry can contribute. For me creating a business that makes a significant change in people’s lives contributes to the economic improvement of my country. It is to have a business with a purpose, which allows me to grow and leave an important legacy for my family. Today, any new business I want to start is inspired by the goals of the SDGs. Think about your role in the world and how you can contribute more. The SDGs goals are waiting for you!
Question#8 How would receiving this SDG Award help you improve your impact and scale your project?
Absolutely, the impact is significant and far-reaching. My goal is to expand this positive influence by collaborating with other companies and promoting the award and its significance at the various events I attend. I am determined to spearhead initiatives that inspire and encourage more individuals and organizations to join forces with SDGs. By doing so, we can collectively contribute towards sustainable development goals. Additionally, I am confident that as Catch continues to evolve and grow, we will enhance reliability and provide an even better user experience for everyone involved. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunities and support extended to me in this endeavor.