By Maryanne Bright
A Legacy of Compassion, Dedication, and Leadership
As the Carleton community gathers to celebrate the graduating class, one name stands out for his unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and academic excellence: Artur Estrela da Silva, this year’s recipient of the Board of Governors Award for Outstanding Community Achievement.
Artur’s journey to Carleton began thousands of kilometers away in Porto Alegre, Brazil, where his passion for politics and international development first took root. Drawn by Carleton’s unique location and the strength of its Political Science department, Artur saw the university not just as a place of learning, but as a launchpad for meaningful change.
“I’ve always been interested in how politics and development can be used to improve the lives of those in need,” he reflects. “Carleton was the perfect place to explore that.”
His commitment to community service began early. At just 14, Artur was already volunteering in small communities throughout Brazil. By 19, he was leading those efforts as a group coordinator. That spirit of service followed him to Carleton, where, even amid the isolation of the pandemic, he sought ways to connect and contribute. He joined the Carleton Political Science Society (CPSS) as a First Year Representative and quickly became a driving force in enhancing student life.
“I hope the work we started continues—especially the initiatives that help students feel seen, supported, and empowered.”
Artur’s impact only grew from there. Through his work with Carleton University Student’s Association (CUSA) Advocacy Team, he led initiatives that left a lasting mark on the student experience. From launching the International Student Welcome Guide and Housing 101 Guide, to establishing a partnership with the Embassy of Mexico and founding the CUSA Think Tank, Artur’s efforts have empowered countless students and amplified their voices.
What drives him? Two core values: compassion and dedication. “In a world that’s increasingly individualistic, compassion is not just a virtue—it’s a necessity,” he says. “But compassion alone isn’t enough. You need the discipline and courage to act on it.”
Artur’s leadership is deeply rooted in the example set by his family. His father taught him to pursue his passions with devotion. His mother modeled resilience and work ethic. And his grandmother, who earned her degree at 50 years old, inspired him to pursue education abroad and to lead with empathy.
As he looks to the future, Artur plans to continue working in NGOs, education, or government, with aspirations of pursuing graduate studies in International Development, Migration, or Disaster Control. But no matter where his path leads, he hopes the legacy he leaves at Carleton will endure. “I hope the work we started continues—especially the initiatives that help students feel seen, supported, and empowered.”
“Compassion is not just a virtue—it’s a necessity,” he says. “But compassion alone isn’t enough. You need the discipline and courage to act on it.”
To his fellow students, Artur offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t be afraid to reach out. Find what you’re passionate about and contribute to it. You’ll be surprised how much of a difference you can make.”
Today, we celebrate not just Artur’s achievements, but the spirit of service and leadership he embodies. His story is a reminder that one person, driven by compassion and dedication, can truly make a difference.