From Rio de Janeiro to Cape Cod: A Story of Perseverance and Courage

by Jamison Feeley

Moving to a new country can be a daunting experience for anyone. For some, it represents a chance to start over, to leave behind past traumas and seek new opportunities. This is the case for Thalles De Souza who, after surviving a traumatic incident in his home country, moved to the United States in search of a better life.

Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he was the first in his family to attend college. Majoring in political science, marketing, and social media, he was also vice president of student government and founder of the first-ever Jesus Club at 4C’s. Despite these accomplishments, his journey to this point has not been without challenges.

In March of 2016, De Souza was almost killed by police inside their home in Rio while they were sleeping. Following a long and difficult legal process, his mother made the decision to flee to the United States with them and his siblings. This move was driven by a desire for better opportunities and safety. 

“7 years since I was almost killed by the police inside of my house in Rio, on a Sunday morning while I was sleeping. After so many challenges and processes suddenly my mom decided to flee with me and my siblings to the USA, for better life opportunities and safety. We moved to the USA in June of 2016, and I continue to live on Cape Cod, the same place I arrived in 2016,” says De Souza.

After arriving on Cape Cod in June of 2016, De Souza graduated from Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School as the class speaker, sharing his life story with his fellow graduates. De Souza worked as a manager for Wendy's for three years after graduation, using the money earned to start learning at Cape Cod Community College.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented new challenges, but this individual persisted and returned to campus when it was safe to do so. He credits his success to the support and encouragement of his mother, who has always been a fighter and a courageous woman. As he states, “I always see my mom as the main person that has contributed to all my success, she was always a fighter, and a courageous woman to do what she did for my best.”

In addition to this personal drive and determination, De Souza also draws strength from his faith in God.

“God is the reason why I made it this far! I see myself as being someone who can make a major impact in the world, and I just want to see how much of a footprint I can leave on earth before I leave. I believe we never know our potential until the only thing we have left is the power to fight for what we want. That’s what my mom did! And at this time, with all I have left, I’m definitely fighting for what I want”

Thalles De Souza. (Andrew Nassar)

Categories: Featured, Student Life