The People's Choice Awards Finalists | Giovanna Ventre

Country: Brazil

Company: Google

About Giovanna

Inspired by my incredible grandmother, I learned the power of empathy and resilience early on. As a lawyer in Brazil, I believe in using my voice to empower others and create a more just and equitable world.  I'm passionate about fostering vulnerability and building meaningful connections to drive positive change.

What does it mean to you to be a finalist for this award?

Being a finalist for the People's Choice Award is an incredible honor. The #IAmRemarkable workshop has been transformative, not just for me, but for the 1000+ individuals I've empowered. Being recognized by this movement, dedicated to celebrating self-worth and breaking down barriers, is deeply humbling. It validates the power of vulnerability and connection, reaffirming my commitment to fostering a world where everyone feels safe to acknowledge their accomplishments and reach their full potential.

This nomination is especially meaningful because my grandmother, who raised me alone and instilled the importance of empathy and resilience, always championed my efforts to make a difference. I was able to buy her a house after completing law school. When I started facilitating #IAmRemarkable in 2020, she expressed immense pride. Sadly, she’s been battling Alzheimer’s for the past two years, but I’m grateful I can support her now as she did for me. Though she may not remember those conversations today, I know she’d be overjoyed by this recognition, and I carry her spirit of love and encouragement every step of the way.

Tell us a bit more about how you’re making an impact through #IAmRemarkable workshops.

I facilitated an #IAmRemarkable workshop for the Google Legal Summer Institute (LSI) in Brazil with 20 exceptional law students from across the country. 

For many of these students, it was their first time stepping into a corporate environment like Google's. Some came from humble beginnings, raised in favelas by single mothers or grandmothers, just like me. They had overcome incredible odds to get there, facing financial hardship and societal barriers. Many shared stories of battling imposter syndrome and struggling with self-promotion, unsure if they truly belonged in this space.

As these bright young minds shared their stories and vulnerabilities, a palpable shift occurred.  It wasn't just about acknowledging their accomplishments; it was about recognizing their power to inspire and lead.  They realized they weren't alone in their struggles and that their unique experiences were valuable assets.

At the end of the workshop, several participants, with tears in their eyes, expressed how profoundly the experience had impacted them.  They spoke about becoming facilitators themselves,  carrying the message of self-empowerment forward into their future careers and communities.  Witnessing that collective awakening, that shared commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future, was a truly remarkable and unforgettable moment. It solidified my belief in the power of #IAmRemarkable to unlock potential and inspire positive change.

Giovanna’s Nominator says:

'In my opinion, what makes Giovanna truly remarkable is her ability to go beyond traditional 'self-promotion workshops'. She cultivates a strong sense of community and belonging among participants, encouraging them to open up, share their stories, and learn from each other. The bonds formed during her sessions often leave a lasting impression, with many expressing gratitude not just for the personal growth they experience but also for the connections they build.

To sum up, Giovanna’s unwavering dedication to empowering individuals, combined with her skills at nurturing a supportive community, makes her an ideal candidate for this award. Her workshops do more than teach self-promotion: they inspire lasting confidence and connection, making a profound impact on everyone involved. As the saying goes, 'it is not bragging if it is about facts', and Giovanna's impact is undeniably remarkable.'