Hosted at the SEFRAS - Franciscan Social Action headquarters, this weeklong exchange encouraged leaders to share experiences and develop community-led strategies that promote economic equity, ecological sustainability, and human rights. Using a "feel/reflect" methodology, participants explored local challenges. They conducted in-depth visits to projects in São Paulo, sharing insights on effective responses to issues such as food security, housing, and environmental preservation. These field visits included stops at a community kitchen in São Paulo's East Zone, where leaders observed local efforts to combat hunger and build community organization; a Homeless Workers' Movement project focused on dignified housing; and the Multiethnic Village in Guarulhos, where Indigenous communities have transformed a former dumping site into a thriving ecological preserve. SEFRAS projects also highlighted responses to homelessness, such as RECIFRAN – the Franciscan Support Service for Recycling, which provides job training and psychological support, and Casa Franciscana, where over 600 meals are served daily alongside social and legal assistance. Reflecting on the gathering’s significance, Fr Rodrigo Péret, a GEM School 2023 alumnus and one of the event organizers, noted: “This gathering was a deeply meaningful experience, and I am inspired to continue promoting initiatives like this one that engage diverse communities to embrace an Economy of Life from the grassroots up.” Péret highlighted the role of community-driven solutions in building sustainable futures through economic and social justice. Throughout the event, participants emphasized strengthening community organization as a powerful vehicle for collective resilience, grounded in active listening to ensure relevance to community needs. Recognizing that women’s empowerment is essential, leaders affirmed the importance of elevating women’s voices for community transformation. Discussions reinforced that social and economic initiatives should prioritize human dignity and environmental care, with education and awareness on key themes—economy, health, and ecology—to foster autonomy and effective local action. The exchange culminated in a Final Declaration, with participants committing to build an Economy of Life based on social justice, ecological balance, and care for communities. This event builds on GEM School’s mission. Co-organized by the World Council of Churches (WCC), World Communion of Reformed Churches, Lutheran World Federation, World Methodist Council, and the Council for World Mission, the GEM School prepares leaders to advocate for sustainable global economies rooted in justice and solidarity to advance a more inclusive and sustainable world. Ecumenical School of Governance, Economics, and Management for an Economy of Life (GEM School) | 
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