Researchers at the University of Leicester have collaborated with the University of Rio de Janeiro and Bournemouth University on a research project aiming to better comprehend the response of citizens within favela communities, to isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pandemic has impacted communities all around the world but low income neighbourhoods including the favelas of Rio de Janeiro have been hit particularly hard, with residents there working in jobs proportionally more affected by the pandemic and combating dense living environments, making social distancing a challenge.
Dr Fabian Frenzel, Associate Professor in the Political Economy of Organisation at Leicester University's School of Business, said:
"COVID-19 has brought many challenges to heritage projects and community groups in favelas, as flows of tourism which bring income and visibility, have been lost.
"Those in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro also have less access to healthcare facilities, space and support. The pandemic has entrenched isolation for these communities."
Dr Frenzel's most recent project has been to help community groups within the favelas with the skill of digital storytelling techniques, helping them to produce virtual tours of the favelas. This builds on previous work he has undertaken with community tourism providers in Rio de Janeiro, ensuring that tour guides and community groups can work with global audiences. Dr Frenzel and his colleagues believe storytelling online will empower individuals and communities within the favelas, lessening the impact of their isolation and potentially helping them to share their experiences more widely.
The website, 'Lockdown Stories' is a virtual tourism platform, featuring community groups involved in tourism across six favelas in Rio de Janeiro: Cantagalo, Chapéu Mangueira, Babilônia, Providência, Rocinha and Santa Marta.
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Live events and tours are currently underway every Tuesday in December at 7 pm (UK) / 4 pm (Brazil). Tours are free, but we invite donations for the presenting community groups.
Instagram - @ lockdownstoriestravel
Facebook - @StoriesLockdown
Twitter - @StoriesLockdown