Seminar Programme ICEF Brazil 2025

View the full seminar programme for ICEF Brazil 2025, where we welcome guest speakers and panellists to discuss and debate the latest trends in international education. The sessions will take place on October 2nd between 14:00 and 19:00.

Thu • Oct 2
From
to
14:00 - 14:25Seminar Room
Strategic networking: Building stronger partnerships • Agents & Providers
Professional Development Discussion
Presenter
Brendan McGerty
Brendan McGerty
Brendan McGerty has over 18 years of international education experience from roles at BMI Media, I-Student Group and Griffith College Ireland. Based in Bahia, Northeast Brazil, Brendan is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish.
LATAM and Global IAS Director, ICEF

This introductory session is a perfect fit both for first timers wishing to learn more about forming partnerships; and for regular event attendees, who can share their valuable experience in the field. It provides practical tips and strategies for making the most out of any ICEF event, and ICEF Secondary Education in particular. 


The international education sector is built on close relationships, and is at its best when professionals are able to share best practice and learn from one another. This session represents a unique opportunity for attendees to pool their knowledge in a supportive environment, ensuring a more productive event experience for all. 


Topic areas include: 

  • Making the most of your time during the event
  • Developing effective post-event follow-up strategies and agent contracts
  • Building a mutually beneficial relationship with providers and agents 
  • Tips for breaking the ice in meetings
14:30 - 15:10Seminar Room
Strategic management: The key ingredients for sustainable growth in Brazil
Market Intelligence Presentation
Presenter
Elaine Martins Fuzer
Elaine Martins Fuzer
Elaine Fuzer is the founder of e_CONSULTING and a leading business consultant with over 15 years of experience in the international education sector. She is dedicated to empowering CEOs and sales leaders to achieve exponential growth and lasting results. Elaine supports exchange agencies, educational institutions and edtech companies, helping them design scalable commercial strategies, build high-performing sales teams, and foster customer-centric cultures. Recognized as a trusted strategic mentor, she drives sustainable growth across the education industry by combining market practice, business intelligence and a deep focus on people and results Her impactful transformation projects connect purpose, performance and innovation.
Business Consultant and Strategic Mentor, e_CONSULTING

The international education market is going through a period of deep transformation. In Brazil, shifting consumer behavior, political and economic instability in major destination countries and increasing competition have placed both agencies and institutions in a complex scenario, yet also full of opportunities for those who operate with a strategic vision.

In this session, we will explore three essential pillars to achieve sustainable and consistent growth in Brazil:

  • Market Understanding – a practical and qualitative look at the Brazilian agency ecosystem, its current challenges, emerging trends and opportunities for institutions aiming to position themselves more effectively.
  • Strategic Management – frameworks and best practices to enhance sales performance, optimize operations and build a strong, long-term presence.
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making – how to turn market insights, consumer behavior and performance indicators into intelligent, student-centered strategies.

Rather than reacting to market shifts, this session is an invitation to lead with purpose. It’s an opportunity for international education leaders to reflect, realign and make smarter decisions heading into 2026.

15:15 - 15:55Seminar Room
Ensuring best practice in student recruitment from Brazil: How to build effective, ethical partnerships
Professional Development Panel discussion
Moderator
Brendan McGerty
Brendan McGerty
Brendan McGerty has over 18 years of international education experience from roles at BMI Media, I-Student Group and Griffith College Ireland. Based in Bahia, Northeast Brazil, Brendan is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish.
LATAM and Global IAS Director, ICEF
Panelist
Ana Beatriz Faulhaber
Ana Beatriz Faulhaber
Ana Beatriz Faulhaber is founder and CEO of CP4 Cursos no Exterior. With over 35 years of experience in international education and student recruitment in Brazil, Bea has taught for more than 18 years at the high school and university levels. She holds a postgraduate degree in HE in Methodology and Innovation in Tourism-FGV, a Master's in Education, and is a Certified Coach. She co-authored 2 books about Career and Tourism. She also holds a specialization in Intercultural Relations in Global Business from MIT Professional Education. Currently,Bea serves as Regional Coordinator for Rio de Janeiro at BELTA and is a member of the association's Ethics Committee. She is a member of BPW and has served as Vice President of BPW Rio de Janeiro.
CEO, CP4 Cursos no Exterior
Panelist
Jhon Valencia
Jhon Valencia
Passionate leader with 20+ years connecting Latin America to global education opportunities. I Graduated from the American University in London and holding a Master’s degree in International Business from London Business School, I bring over 20 years of experience in the industry. My journey began as a student in London, where I discovered my passion for student mobility. Since then, I have dedicated my career to connecting people with life-changing educational opportunities. I take great pride in helping individuals transform their lives, broaden their horizons, and make their dreams a reality.
Regional Director LATAM, Centre of English Studies - CES

With a number of key study destinations shining a spotlight on the international education sector, it is more important than ever that practitioners from across the industry come together to focus on transparent, ethical, and sustainable recruitment practices. 


In this insightful discussion, our speakers share examples of tried and tested best practice, exploring what has worked for them when developing their agency partnerships. With a wealth of tips and strategies, the discussion will not only be essential for those entering the international student recruitment industry but also experienced practitioners seeking ideas from their peers. 

16:00 - 16:30
Refreshment break
16:30 - 16:55Seminar Room
Making the most of data: How to succeed in the Brazilian market
Market Intelligence Presentation
Presenter
Alexandre Argenta
Alexandre Argenta
Academic background in foreign trade, marketing and law. International education consultant since 1994. CEO and Founder of Travelmate Intercâmbio since 2002. President of BELTA.
President, Brazilian Educational & Language Travel Association (BELTA)

Learn about the International Education market in Brazil with BELTA research 2025 results and the trends in the Brazilian study abroad market nowadays. Information will be given about agencies and student profiles in 2025and the tendencies for this year. The survey shows important changes and new trends. Educators will have updated information and will learn that partnering with quality Brazilian agents is an effective way to increase their share of the market.

17:00 - 17:25Seminar Room
Study in Malta: English-speaking gateway to Europe
Market Intelligence Presentation
Presenter
Tess Giordmaina
Tess Giordmaina
Tess Giordmaina is the Director of Ascencia Malta , with over 20 years of experience in the sector, including more than a decade in senior directorship roles. Her academic background is complemented by international work experience in Malta, Germany, India, and the United States. At Ascencia Malta, Tess leads a dynamic institution committed to academic excellence, inclusivity, and innovation. She is passionate about building meaningful international connections, advancing educational quality, and positioning Malta as a premier study destination in Europe.
School Director, Ascencia Malta

Why are students from over 100 countries choosing Malta as their study destination? In this session, we take a closer look at Malta’s rise as an international education hub that blends academic excellence, cultural richness, and a warm, English-speaking environment.


As a Schengen country and full member of the European Union, Malta offers international students access to the wider European region, while also providing a safe, inclusive, and stable living environment. English is one of the official

languages, making it easy for students from all backgrounds to integrate both socially and academically.


Malta’s education system emphasizes quality, employability, and international recognition, with institutions offering degrees aligned with the Bologna Process. Beyond the classroom, Malta supports students with a range of practical benefits, all supporting students towards their career goals.  


This session will highlight reasons to consider Malta a top-tier study destination in Europe. Whether you’re advising students or forming new institutional partnerships, discover why Malta is fast becoming one of Europe’s most attractive options for global learners.

17:30 - 17:55Seminar Room
Effectively integrating technology: How is AI affecting recruitment in Brazil
Thought Leadership Presentation
18:00 - 18:55Seminar Room
ICEF Brazil Roundtable Series
Roundtables
Moderator
Simone Ricci
Simone Ricci
Simone Ricci holds a degree in Law and a Master’s in International Business with a focus on the education sector. She has extensive experience working with international institutions, supporting the mobility of Brazilian students to destinations such as the UK, Canada, Germany, and Switzerland. Currently, she represents Education in Ireland in the Brazilian market, assisting Irish higher education institutions in developing and implementing their recruitment strategies and academic partnerships across Brazil.
Senior Education Consultant, Education in Ireland
Moderator
Vinicius Teixeira
Vinicius Teixeira
Vini Teixeira has over 15 years of experience in the international education industry. He began his career as an education agent in Brazil and later moved to Canada, where he worked for language schools across various provinces, as well as in both private higher education institutions and a public university. Vini also experienced international education firsthand as a student while completing his master’s degree in Canada. This personal and professional journey has given him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by international students, and he remains passionate about supporting their success and integration in new academic environments.
International Recruitment and Admissions Manager, Kwantlen Polytechnic University - KPU
Moderator
Maria Flávia Aguiar
Maria Flávia Aguiar
Flavia brings over 20 years experience at International Education industry managing a variety of destination such as Canada, Australia, USA, Europe and UAE, as an exchange student, agent and as recruiter, inspired to transform students' lives positively thru Education abroad the globe. A true traveller of the world, passionate about CSR and volunteering initiatives, new cultures and to bring study opportunities to International Students.
Head of Brazil, GEDU (Global Education)
Moderator
Fabio Bincoletto
Fabio Bincoletto
Originally from Brazil, I have lived in Bournemouth for over 20 years and have dedicated more than 15 years to international education. I am deeply passionate about our industry, and I am committed to empowering students to achieve their lifelong personal and professional dreams through education. Since joining Kings in 2018, I have built strong relationships and provided outstanding support to our partners across the UK, Western Europe, and Brazil. It has been incredibly rewarding to see hundreds of students progressing to top universities and launching successful global careers. Being part of an organisation that shares my values makes this journey incredibly fulfilling.
Regional Manager, Kings Education
Moderator
Flavio Crusoé
Flavio Crusoé
CEO and founder of BEX Brazilian Exchange, agency specialized in study abroad programs, with 33 years in the market. Currently also director of International Relations of BELTA and national coordinator of BELTA high school committee.
CEO, BEX - Brazilian Exchange

As distinct from a panel session or keynote, the roundtables provide a space for a less-structured discussion but with guidance from an informed specialist. To provide that guidance, each table is led by a host whose role is to moderate and animate the discussion around the topic at hand.


- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.


Roundtables' topics:

  1. What factors will continue to push students to Ireland? - Simone Ricci
  2. Has the UK become a more attractive market for Brazilian students following recent policy changes in other key destination markets? - Fabio Bincoletto
  3. An evolving market: How will Canada's policy changes impact Brazilian students? - Vinicius Teixeira
  4. Can emerging study destinations compete for global students? - Maria Flavia Aguiar
  5. TBA
  6. What do K-12 Brazilian students want? - Flavio Crusoe Jr
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