In Brazil, the City of Campinas has been awarded the Prêmio Gente que Inova (People Who Innovate Prize) in Health Promotion for its Passos para uma vida melhor (Steps to a better life) programme.

Organised by the Municipality Secretariat for People Management and Development, the award honours public employees whose projects deliver innovative services and stronger community outcomes. For Campinas, it recognises a bold prevention strategy – and inspiration for other cities worldwide.

Launched in 2023 as part of Cities for Better Health, Passos promotes healthy eating and physical activity to prevent chronic disease and reduce health inequity. Part of the global Childhood Obesity Prevention Initiative (COPI), the programme includes tailored interventions in selected neighbourhoods.

In less than two years, it has reached more than 18,000 residents through nutrition workshops, walking groups, fitness sessions in public spaces and other community interventions for all ages.

Learn more about the Passos in action – access a video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zem8TuCu1w8

What makes the initiative stand out is its cross-departmental model. With support from dedicated partners, education, social services, sports, health, and other city teams work together to turn local strategy into daily actions with communities. 

Passos has expanded across Campinas to embed prevention more deeply into city systems. With continued political support, regular training for city staff and strong governance, the initiative aims to establish a sustainable, city-wide model to reduce the burden of chronic disease for all children in Campinas.

The Prêmio Gente que Inova is more than an award. It is a proof point of how innovation, collaboration and community action can spark city-wide change and inspire other cities to take bold steps toward healthier futures.