By Rodrigo Rubido, Architect and Entrepreneur, Partner at Ânima Arquitetura, and Co-founder of Instituto ELOS
At Instituto ELOS, we believe that the power to shape the future lies within every community. Founded in Brazil, our work is rooted in a series of methods and practices designed to mobilize people, strengthen their individual potentials, and deepen community ties. So that together they can create their common future as a community.
Our approach, known as the ELOS Methodology, is more than just a collection of tools; it’s a way of being that honors the inherent potential within each person and community, fostering the conditions for collective action to thrive. The ELOS Methodology is built on principles of love, respect, and deep listening. We start by engaging with communities, listening to their stories, and valuing their local cultures. Through this process, we co-create solutions that are deeply rooted in the wisdom and lived experiences of the people themselves. This approach has proven to be a powerful catalyst for positive change, not only in Brazil but in diverse contexts around the world—from urban centers in Europe to rural communities in Africa.
What makes the ELOS Methodology universal is its foundation in human conditions, rather than cultural specifics. The seven disciplines that guide our work are applicable in any setting because they focus on listening, valuing local assets, and building on the strengths already present in each community. Whether we are working in affluent neighborhoods or marginalized areas, in bustling cities or remote villages, the essence of our work remains the same: empowering communities to envision and create their shared future.
As the world increasingly seeks ways to reconnect with the core values that bring life to our communities, the ELOS Methodology allows us to see what’s possible when we embrace the potential for transformation that resides within us all.
The Elos Methodology: A Brazilian Approach to Global Change
The ELOS Methodology was born out of a desire to address the social and environmental challenges we faced in Brazil. It proposes a philosophy which seeks to create a scenario of abundance and recognize the talents and resources available for turning collective dreams into reality.
In order to practice the philosophy the method offers aset of seven practices that begins with discovering the strengths and dreams of a community and ends with realizing those dreams through collective action. The practices are:
- Begin with a fresh Gaze which sees abundance and possibility where others may only see a never ending downward spiral.
- Look closely, with Affection and let love fill you rather than being lost in a sea of fears and judgments.
- Dream about what else is possible now, right here, with what we have.
- Embrace the ability to truly Care for each other and to weave together the threads of different dreams
- Discover the Miracle that can happen when we as human beings just roll up our sleeves and start working together
- Celebrate what’s been done and what is possible now when people really begin to see each other.
- Remember, this truly is a Re-volution of the human spirit, finding the way forward together.
The ELOS methodology fosters a deep sense of ownership and responsibility among participants, as they are not merely recipients of support but active creators of their future. Our work in Brazil has seen us engage with communities in favelas, indigenous territories, and urban neighborhoods, each time witnessing the profound transformation that occurs when people come together with a shared vision. The methodology is built on principles of inclusion, respect, and collaboration, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
Applying the Elos Methodology in the US: A Transformative Journey in Snohomish County
In 2023, we had the opportunity to bring the Elos Methodology to the United States, partnering with the Housing Authority of Snohomish County(HASCO) in Washington. This collaboration marked a significant milestone for us, as it was the first time we applied our Brazilian-born approach in a North American context.
The project with HASCO was focused on addressing housing insecurity and fostering a sense of community among the stakeholders of this cause in the County and among residents of public housing. What made this initiative unique was the way we adapted the ELOS Methodology to fit the cultural and social dynamics of Snohomish County. While the practices remained the same, the application was tailored to resonate with the local context.
One of the most significant outcomes of this collaboration was the creation of a field of collaboration among stakeholders including the public sector that is effectively helping to increase the offer of Affordable Housing units in the County. At same time we are bringing ELOS Methodology to HASCO way of relating to residents of its properties which is allowing the co-creation of spaces that reflect the dreams and aspirations of the residents. We encouraged HASCO to listen and open space for dialogue in order to learn about the citizens’ needs and perceptions. People expressed a desire for community gardens, for shared gathering areas, desiring a physical environment that facilitated social interaction, increased connection, and fostered a sense of belonging. The process itself empowered residents to take ownership of their surroundings, leading to stronger, more resilient communities.
Global Transformation Rooted in Community
Working with HASCO was a profound experience for me and the team at Instituto ELOS. It reaffirmed our belief that the principles of the ELOS Methodology are universal. Whether in a favela in Brazil or a housing complex in Washington, the process of collective dreaming and action has the power to transform communities and lives.
As an architect and entrepreneur, I am continually inspired by the ways in which our work can transcend borders, cultures, and contexts. The success of our partnership with HASCO is a testament to the adaptability and strength of the ELOS Methodology, and it motivates us to continue expanding our reach, sharing our approach with communities around the world.
In every project, we are reminded that true change comes from within the community. Our role is to facilitate, guide, and support, but the real power lies in the hearts and hands of the people. This belief will continue to drive our work at Instituto ELOS, as we strive to create a world where every community can realize its dreams.
We invite others to join us on this journey of transformation. Whether you are a community leader, a government official, or simply someone who believes in the power of collective action, there is a role for you in this movement. Together, we can build a future where communities create a scenario of abundance and turn their collective dreams into reality.
Rodrigo Rubido is an architect and entrepreneur, partner in the company Ânima Arquitetura and co-founder of Instituto Elos. He is a facilitator and co-creator of Elos’ methodologies, the Oasis Game and the program Guerreiros Sem Armas, an international course that trains young leaders from diverse countries to be agents of social transformation in their cities and countries. He is also a consultant and speaks internationally on the subjects of social entrepreneurship, participative leadership and community mobilization, having worked with companies such as Itaú, Natura and Telefônica. In 2010 and 2011 Rodrigo worked to spread the Elos methodology in the Netherlands, training Dutch professionals and consulting with the Amsterdam city government on the subject of local development processes. In 2017 he was named one of four global leaders by the Tällberg Foundation.