Meny
During the past months, ShareMusic & Performing Arts has had the pleasure of hosting Vitória Viana Assis as a research fellow through the Global Campus of Human Rights – Right Livelihood Fellowship. The programme connects academic research with organisations working actively for human rights, creating opportunities for fellows to explore how theory can be translated into real-world practice.
Vitória joined ShareMusic shortly after graduating from the European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation (EMA). Her research focuses on how arts and inclusive education can empower children and people with disabilities, a topic that resonated strongly with ShareMusic’s mission and ongoing work.
During her five-month placement in Sweden, Vitória built on her completed thesis while working closely with the organisation’s team and activities. Over time, the placement developed from a traditional research internship into what she describes as an “embedded engagement” with inclusive artistic practice.
Reflecting on her first days, she recalls arriving both nervous and excited, but quickly feeling welcomed into the team and the organisation’s everyday work:
“What began as a research placement became something far deeper: an embedded engagement with an organisation that lives its values daily, a community of people committed to reshaping what is possible in the arts.”
Throughout her time at ShareMusic, Vitória participated in rehearsals, meetings, concerts, workshops, and everyday office life. From fika breaks and informal conversations to major performances and events, she experienced how inclusion is not a fixed goal but a continuous process shaped by collaboration and reflection.
“I have learned that inclusion is not a state to be achieved but a practice to be continually renewed — in rehearsals, in meetings, and in the way people treat each other and the artists they serve.”
During the fellowship, Vitória travelled within Sweden and attended several activities and performances. Among the most memorable moments for her were seeing young participants take the stage and experiencing concerts where inclusive artistic practice was fully realised.
She describes one of these moments vividly:
“I remember watching the EDI children command that stage and feeling tears in my eyes because joy like that is impossible to witness without being moved.”
Experiences like these helped bridge the gap between academic theory and lived practice — a central goal of the fellowship programme.
“I witnessed how inclusive artistic practice can dismantle systemic barriers, proving that when we design environments for those who face the most challenges, we create a world that is better for everyone.”
As part of the fellowship, Vitória also attended the Right Livelihood Award Ceremony 2025. Being present among human rights defenders from around the world made a strong impression on her:
“I had never imagined being in a room filled with such powerful examples of resistance, solidarity and justice. It reminded me why work in human rights is so necessary.”
The experience strengthened her commitment to continuing work at the intersection of arts, inclusion and human rights.
Looking back on the five months, Vitória describes the fellowship as transformative both professionally and personally.
“Every day felt like a journey of discovery that changed the way I see the world.”
She emphasises how the placement allowed her to move from observation to participation, becoming what she calls a “participant-researcher” within the organisation.
“Organisations like ShareMusic are not merely service providers but infrastructures of possibility — spaces where what seems impossible in the broader culture becomes momentarily real.”
Vitória’s time at ShareMusic came to a close with the completion of her research reports, but the collaboration has left a lasting impact on both sides. Her presence brought new perspectives to the organisation and strengthened its international connections.
Reflecting on her experience, she shares:
“You made a foreigner feel at home. You made a researcher feel like a collaborator. You made a visitor feel like family.”
We are deeply grateful for Vitória’s contributions, insights and dedication during her fellowship. Her work has enriched our understanding and strengthened our ongoing commitment to inclusive artistic practice and human rights.
We look forward to following her future work and hope our paths will cross again.
Vitória at ShareMusic
Vitória came to ShareMusic after finishing her Master’s degree in Human Rights and Democratisation.
Her research is about how art and education can support children and people with disabilities.
From research to practice
Vitória stayed in Sweden for five months.
At first, she came to do research.
But she quickly became part of the team and the daily work.
She says:
“What began as research became something much deeper.”
Everyday learning
During her time at ShareMusic, Vitória joined:
rehearsals
meetings
workshops
concerts
She also took part in everyday moments, like coffee breaks and conversations.
She learned that inclusion is something you do every day.
It is not something you finish.
Strong experiences
Vitória travelled to different places in Sweden.
One important moment was seeing children from the EDI project perform on stage.
She says:
“I felt very moved when I saw their joy.”
These experiences helped her understand how theory works in real life.
A wider perspective
Vitória also attended the Right Livelihood Award Ceremony.
She met people working with human rights from many countries.
She says:
“It reminded me why this work is so important.”
A meaningful time
Vitória describes her time at ShareMusic as very important for her.
She learned new things every day.
She also became more active in the work, not just an observer.
Looking back
At the end of her stay, Vitória finished her research.
She also built strong connections with the team.
She says:
“You made me feel at home.”
Thank you
We are very grateful for Vitória’s work and ideas.
She has helped us learn and grow.
We hope to work together again in the future.
.png)
.jpg)
%20(3).png)
.png)