I’d never heard about Gen Verde before, but when my newly-wedded husband told me about the Performing Arts weekend that they were to run, I became really excited! Back in Brazil, I used to dance a lot, performing shows and teaching others all sorts of dance, from ballet to tap.

But the weekend ended up being so much more than just a dance class. There were other workshops, such as singing and percussion, live performances from Gen Verde and opportunities to chat to them and learn lots of valuable teamwork skills with the other young people there.

Not only that, but since we were there from Friday evening to Sunday lunchtime, we slept at the Focolare Centre and got to know the other young people there, having breakfast, lunch and dinner together and chatting about our lives and having fun.

Over the course of the weekend, I learnt a lot about the importance of working together and that we a not alone. We had the opportunity to talk to people from lots of different countries – the other young participants and also the members of Gen Verde, who were amazing, really friendly and welcoming.

Particularly in the dance workshop, I had to learn to be patient and understand that not everyone could learn all the moves at the same speed. And even if you were feeling tired and had to repeat a step that you already knew, you had to do it because it was not about just yourself – it was about working together as a team, so that we could all be synchronised and create something good.

We worked hard to learn the routine, but it felt really good to perform in front of the other young people (as well as others who had come just for the show, such as local people and the Bishop) because I felt we achieved something. Even with all the difficulties, barriers and challenges, we were able to be one as a team and perform an amazing dance.

Another great part of the weekend was being able to see on Saturday night, not only the other workshops’ performances, but the Gen Verde group performing their songs. All of them were amazing and their songs and personal testimonies had great messages.

They are so talented with instruments, as well as being able to dance and sing beautifully. I get the impression they really love what they do, living in community and doing good, wholesome work around the world that entertains and inspires lots of people!

It was an amazing weekend and I learnt a lot about the importance of being united and how, together, we can create great art aimed towards the common good. I also learnt that our qualities and skills are not just a gift for ourselves, but to be shared with the whole world.

I thank God and all the people from Focolare and Gen Verde for providing me this amazing experience that I will never forget!