International Day of Light and the experience as a volunteer at Litro de Luz

Essay: Nelson Toru Uematsu

On this International Day of Light, I would like to highlight the importance that light represents on our planet, in our daily lives, and the relevance of Litro de Luz, of which I have been a volunteer since 2015. I want to express with great joy and pride the experience of being part of this team.

I work in the Operations-National area and am involved in the purchasing process, stock control, production supervision, quality control testing, supporting other branches, and developing improvements. I can confidently say that the highlight is, without a doubt, participation in the actions, whether in urban communities in large cities or in the most remote areas of this vast Brazil, especially in riverside, indigenous, and rural communities. It is in these moments that you have the opportunity to live with the residents and get to know their reality. They are simple people, but with a wealth and greatness in their souls! It is a unique moment because, with each solution delivered, you receive that generous look, full of shine and hope for a better future. That smile and tight hug, the gratitude, where we leave completely happy and energized, certain that we have done something truly useful. It is an indescribable feeling!

Furthermore, I consider my experience with Litro de Luz as continuous learning, as during this time I had the opportunity to meet other volunteers, most of whom are younger than me, all with the same purpose of doing good. The daily interaction with them has helped me better understand today's world, listen to their conversations, and even learn to use various communication tools. I can honestly say that I feel more alive and rejuvenated. Eternal gratitude!

Finally, I would also like to highlight that the International Day of Light is connected to the very origin of life through the energy of the sun. All its impacts and the importance that light holds in science, engineering, medicine, culture, art, education, and sustainable development, as well as in many other areas.

Litro de Luz continues its relentless work for equality of conditions and the fight for widespread access to lighting.