Manuela d'Ávila

Manuela d'Ávila (born 1981) is a prominent Brazilian politician, journalist, and social activist who has become one of Latin America's leading progressive voices. She served as a federal deputy representing Rio Grande do Sul and was the vice-presidential candidate for the Brazilian Socialist Party in the 2018 presidential election, running alongside Ciro Gomes. D'Ávila is known for her passionate advocacy on issues including LGBTQ+ rights, environmental protection, gender equality, and workers' rights. Before her political career, she worked as a journalist and media professional, using her platform to champion progressive causes. She has faced considerable opposition from conservative sectors in Brazil, including death threats and harassment, yet has remained steadfast in her activism. D'Ávila represents a new generation of Brazilian politicians who blend traditional left-wing ideology with contemporary social movements, appealing particularly to younger voters and urban progressives. Her candidacy and political presence have made her one of the most visible female political figures in Brazil, contributing significantly to broader conversations about social justice and democratic participation in Latin America.