Our Founders and Leadership
Our leadership team is composed of passionate individuals who believe in the power of connection and community. Balancing their lives between Brazil and New York City, our founders and leaders bring a unique perspective to every initiative we undertake, ensuring that our impact is felt across borders and generations.
Chef Igor Vicente – Founder & President
Chef Igor Vicente is where this idea was born. A Black, hard-of-hearing man from a favela in Rio de Janeiro, Igor refuses to be reduced by prejudice about his sexuality, his disability, or his origins. He loves every part of himself that the world once called 'wrong' and insists that difference is a strength. Through his passion for gastronomy, he brings the flavors of Brazilian food together with African roots and energy, turning the kitchen into a place of dignity.
Robson Costa – Legal Affairs Director
Robson Costa migrated as a child from Paraíba to Rio de Janeiro in search of a better life. Following in his father’s footsteps, he first became a mechanic, but after becoming a father, he decided to restart his studies in law. Today, Robson is building a legal career and is committed to being an example of Northeastern resilience, using his journey to inspire others from similar roots.
Luciana Moura – Finance Director
Luciana Moura is from Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, and works in administrative management. After becoming a mother, she returned to university and is now studying accounting. Raised in a humble family, she learned that 'where one person eats, two can eat.' Luciana worked in family homes as a teenager and has always been proud of her roots, bringing dignity and strength to every project she supports with the Transform Lives Foundation.
About Us – Our Story
Transform Lives Foundation NYC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities through gastronomy, sports, and social programs. We connect initiatives in New York City, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Juiz de Fora to create real opportunities for people in vulnerable situations. Our team speaks Portuguese, Spanish, and English, building bridges between the United States, Brazil, and Portugal so that local actions can create global impact.
Maitê Hernandez – Co Founder
Maitê Hernandez is the bridge connecting Brazil and New York. A neurodivergent single mother and immigrant, she arrived in the US 21 years ago without speaking English. She learned the language as an adult and is now pursuing studies in the nonprofit sector. Her journey shapes our commitment to immigrants, women, and neurodivergent communities.
Nutrition & Dignity
Bringing the flavors and nutrition of Brazil to combat food insecurity in NYC’s underserved neighborhoods. We provide daily meals and sustainable cooking workshops.
Our Initiatives
Connecting Brazil and New York City through social projects focused on nutrition, sports, and education for youth and families.
Sports & Inclusion
Using sports as a bridge for integration for Brazilian youth in NYC. Our free training programs promote physical health, mental resilience, and discipline.
Education Network
Linking top-tier mentors in New York with promising students in Brazil, providing academic guidance and preparation for the global market.
Kick & Cook: Empowering Future Leaders
Kick & Cook is our flagship program that brings together sports and gastronomy to inspire discipline, teamwork, and new opportunities for youth.
Click JOIN PROGRAM to email us your application. Please share who you are, why you’d like to join, and where you’re contacting us from.
Healthy Minds, Healthy Meals
A high-impact pilot program delivering specialized nutrition education, mental wellness workshops, and communal empowerment activities for individuals navigating vulnerable situations.
Click JOIN US to email our team. Please include a brief introduction and why you are interested in joining our community workshops.
Nourishing Bodies, Empowering Souls
This program combines healthy cooking, community support, and mentoring to help women rebuild confidence and independence.
- Culinary Skills: Hands-on training in healthy meal preparation.
- Nutritional Guidance: Practical advice for balanced family diets.
- Mentorship: Safe spaces for emotional growth and peer support.
2026 Global Agenda: Building Bridges of Resilience
We are expanding our programs across Brazil and beyond with exchanges, workshops, and cross-cultural projects that connect communities through sports, food, and education.