I photographed Getulio Fidelis who was born in Rocinha, a community of 160,000 residents in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro. Contrary to media stereotype, a favela is not a slum nor a shantytown. It is an informal, lower class community which developed its own unique culture. Fidelis currently lives in Santa Marta, a favela that was first pacified. He and his wife live in a 500-sq-ft, remodeled 2-level, one-bedroom home, complete with air-condition, two televisions, and his various Apple electronics. Fidelis is part of this emerging middle class. Fidelis was fortunate to be awarded a full-scholarship to attend university and also works at a successul ngo. "Because he had access to education, he was able to get a good job. Because he has a good job, he can now consume, fuelling demand and making others wealthier as well."
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