The Efeito RenovaBR series highlights stories of leaders who are redefining the political scenario in Brazil with concrete actions and commitment to the future.
Among these protagonists is Kayo Amado, reelected mayor of São Vicente, who has been showing how innovative public management and proximity to the population can transform realities.
A trajectory marked by dreams and achievements
“Politics for me is a childhood dream,” says Kayo Amado, 33. He achieved the highest proportional vote in the city’s history, a milestone that reflects his connection with the population and the results of his administration.
“I always dreamed of being president of Brazil and I built my career based on this goal. RenovaBR was a key point in this journey, helping me structure my dreams and prepare myself to transform them into reality,” he said.
After facing an electoral defeat in 2016, Kayo found the support he needed in RenovaBR to move forward. “The network gave me strength in the most difficult moments and helped me achieve my goal of becoming mayor. In politics, as in life, we lose and win, but the important thing is to persist.”
One of the milestones of his administration was the approval of the municipality's accounts by the Court of Auditors of the State of São Paulo (TCESP) in 2021, an unprecedented feat after 12 years. This result symbolizes a significant advance in the public management of São Vicente, highlighting the search for efficiency and responsibility in the use of municipal resources.
Education as a priority
Among the highlights of Kayo Amado’s term, education stands out as the flagship. “For the first time in the history of São Vicente, we delivered school supplies and uniforms to almost 40 thousand children. This was a clear priority. Seeing a child going to school with everything they need is the greatest reward,” she says.
In addition to this unprecedented achievement, the city is preparing to open two new schools, which go beyond traditional education by offering spaces for sports and cultural activities. Other initiatives include the construction of the city's first Emergency Care Unit (UPA) and a planned maternity hospital, which will allow children to be born in São Vicente and will also serve the Baixada Santista region.
Innovative management and transparency with the population
One of the pillars of Kayo’s management is proximity to the population. “Many people reject politics because they feel that politicians are distant. We decided to be present, both on the streets and on social media, showing problems and solutions. This creates trust and strengthens the bond with the community,” he says.
This management philosophy includes a strategic plan built collaboratively. With São Vicente’s 500th anniversary approaching in 2032, the plan was drawn up with input from local leaders, civil society and a broad public consultation. “This plan is a commitment to the city’s future and we are constantly reporting to the population.”
With an eye to the future, Kayo Amado shares her vision. “My dream is for São Vicente to be a more inclusive city, where children can learn, play and dream. A happy city that offers opportunities and a promising future for everyone.”
Kayo Amado's story is an example of RenovaBR's impact in forming leaders who not only dream, but also achieve, transforming politics into a tool for real change for Brazil.
Democracy and the role of voting
For Kayo, democracy is essential in building a fairer and more participatory society. “Voting is the moment when people make their voices heard, but the increase in null votes and abstentions shows dissatisfaction. Our role is to restore the trust of the population, governing with transparency and real results.”
He also emphasizes the importance of RenovaBR in his career. “It was a network that prepared me to lead and gave me the strength to continue through difficult times. Today, I see the impact of this training in the transformation we are promoting in São Vicente.”
