A long list of cultural events and social projects would remain merely ideas on paper if not for the hard work of volunteers. Whether they invest their time weekly or annually, their help creates a wave of solidarity that transforms the community into a better place. Lawyer Ramón Petgrave is one of those people who make a difference.

“Volunteering is great because you enjoy both the experience and the cause. It feels different from work; It’s more like a fulfilling activity”, he says.

Those are not just words. Ramón’s journey demonstrates his deep passion for volunteering. He has always invested his time in social causes like raising funds to support the education of thousands of students in Jamaica, his country of birth, and being a member on the Advisory Committee for Immigrants and Refugees for the City of Hamilton. He has also found happiness, for example, by being a “do-it-all” in festivals, such as BrazilFest.

“I feel that festivals like this take down barriers by showing our cultures are very much alike — we all love food, we all love music. It’s an event that brings together different people. People get a chance to mingle”, he points out.

Growing with BrazilFest

Ramón joined BrazilFest for the first time 12 years ago and has never looked back— the only “pause” in the partnership was between 2013 and 2014 when he briefly moved to Australia to enroll in a Law program at Bond University, in Australia.

It couldn’t be different. Ramón has always been fascinated by Brazilian culture. He was once an avid student of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has seen some of the most popular Brazilian movies, such as “Tropa de Elite.” Therefore, when he had the opportunity to volunteer at BrazilFest, he didn’t think twice.

“It was the perfect opportunity to be exposed to the best the country has to offer. I had such a blast every time.”

On the field, Ramón has done a little bit of everything, from setting up the stage to providing information for guests, especially those who don’t speak Portuguese.

Investor

The partnership grew so much that, this year, for the first time, Ramón will be at Earlscourt Park for BrazilFest on July 20th and 21st, not as a volunteer, but as an investor. He will do so through his company — Petgrave Law Firm, which practices in the areas of Criminal, Family, and Immigration law.

For Ramón, what sets BrazilFest apart from other Brazilian events that happen weekly in Toronto is the fact that the festival is free, accessible to all, and has a strong cultural identity. “There is something for everybody. You can go for a picnic, a date, or with your family. It’s whatever you want to make it. It’s not restrictive at all. Looking for music, food, drinks, or just to relax? That’s your place. It’s an oasis of variety.”

The lawyer also points out that BrazilFest reinvents itself year after year. “It always brings something new — different hosts, musicians, vendors. This means the festival is always fresh. There is always some growth. It’s an opportunity for artists to make a name for themselves, for small businesses to reach more people and advance in the game.”

Ramón move from volunteer to investor at BrazilFest shows just how dedicated he is to supporting this community event. His journey is truly inspiring, proving that passion and hard work can lead to an even greater impact. By staying actively involved, he continues to make a positive difference, fostering unity and growth within the community.