Cultural Centers have emerged in favelas across the city in recent decades, running programs of theatre, cinema, musical performance and a wide range of classes, workshops and interactive events - These organizations have produced ground-breaking material, and offer individuals strong support systems.

Music, as well as dance, capoeira and sports, bring a sense of community and value to everyday life - These forms of artistic expression are profoundly empowering, offering individuals and communities a means of autonomous political engagement. They provide an alternative path and trajectory to adiction and criminality - one that is rich is creativity, self-expression and a strong sense of belonging.

Engagement with the arts is integral to favela life, allowing residents to articulate their reality and shape their sense of self - It also contribues to increased social power, enabling them to fashion the images and identities of communities and individuals that are exported to the wider world.