Discover how the innovative vision of the Guajajara vice-chief is uniting forces, revitalizing traditions, and transforming the future of the inhabitants of his Territory.

In the Arariboia Indigenous Territory, Maranhão, a region marked by natural and cultural richness yet challenged by environmental degradation and a lack of economic opportunities, a young and inspiring leader emerges: Nonato Paulino Guajajara. At just 28 years old, Nonato already serves as the general leader of the Abraão region, leading 25 villages with over 1,100 inhabitants. By articulating projects and solutions for his community, he represents the future of Indigenous leadership in Brazil.

The Indigenous Territory and the Village of Vargem Limpa

The Arariboia Indigenous Territory is an ancestral home to the Guajajara and Awá peoples, including isolated communities that preserve their traditions in deep connection with the forest. Despite its cultural and natural wealth, the region faces significant challenges: frequent wildfires, deforestation for pasture, and climate change threaten biodiversity, water resources, and the food security of its communities.

At the same time, the region remains a sanctuary of exuberant biodiversity. The territory is home to iconic species such as the howler monkey, the tapir, and the giant anteater, as well as native plants like buriti, buritirana, and açaí. Amid the dense forest, crystal-clear rivers and hidden waterfalls reveal a land where culture and nature endure and renew, offering a glimpse of hope for the future.

It is in this land of contrasts that Nonato leads with courage. Specifically in the community of Vargem Limpa, home to around 420 people, the vice-chief works to regenerate degraded areas, strengthen local culture, and develop sustainable economic alternatives, including community-based tourism.

A Young and Unifying Leadership

Born into a family that faced challenges accessing education, he overcame barriers, became a university student, and is currently pursuing a degree in Pedagogy, aiming to further contribute to the future of his community. Beyond that, Nonato is renowned for his diplomatic skills: he connects villages, mobilizes leaders, and builds strategic partnerships with external organizations to foster the development of his people while preserving their culture.

As the general leader of the Abraão region, Nonato leads 25 villages with over 1,100 people, orchestrating projects that balance tradition and innovation. One example is his work to implement agroforestry systems in degraded areas, cultivating native species such as açaí and buritirana, which provide sustainable income while contributing to the region’s environmental restoration. Nonato has also mobilized his community to develop community-based tourism, including ecological trails, cultural experiences, and initiatives like the revitalization of springs and local rivers.

“Our dream is to transform our community into a destination for community-based tourism, where traditions are lived, degraded areas are revitalized, and future generations have opportunities to thrive in deep connection with nature.”

Nonato Guajajara

His leadership goes beyond daily management. He inspires trust by organizing regular meetings between chiefs, promoting the use of the native language in schools, and coordinating swift responses to combat wildfires that threaten the forest.

“I look at my community and see the potential we have to protect our culture and our nature. No matter the size of the challenges, I believe we can build a better future if we work together.”

Nonato Guajajara

Uniting Generations to Transform Arariboia

The mission to regenerate the Indigenous Territory is not a solitary one. Alongside Nonato is an intergenerational team that unites youth, experience, and a deep passion for the land: José Luis, a farmer dedicated to sustainable production; Leonardo, a conservationist committed to environmental management; and Daniel, an expert in cultivating native species such as açaí and buritirana. Together, they face challenges like lack of infrastructure, environmental pressures, and the need for economic alternatives, yet they see a horizon of possibilities in the forest.

Guided by Nonato’s vision, the group works to revitalize degraded areas, reclaim traditions, and create innovative opportunities. “Our dream is to transform our community into a destination where traditions are lived, the forest is regenerated, and future generations thrive in deep connection with nature,” says Nonato, encapsulating the collective spirit that drives his leadership.

Cultivating the Future Today

Nonato Paulino Guajajara and his team are living proof that transformation is not a distant dream — it is a reality built day by day. The strength of their actions restores what was lost and plants the seeds of a vibrant future where tradition, innovation, and nature coexist. Amazonian communities need allies. Join this journey and be part of the regeneration.