Why is PFI’s mission important to you? What made you interested in supporting the mission of PFI as Brazil’s representative?
Giovanna: Brazil has one of the largest pet populations in the world, but many pet owners still lack proper guidance on what makes pet food truly good and nutritionally complete. There’s a common misunderstanding about what should be in a pet’s diet, and as a result, many pets don’t get the nutrition they need. What drew me to PFI was its commitment to advocating for pet health through education. It’s important to me to help raise awareness and ensure that both pet owners and professionals have access to the right information, so they can make informed choices that truly benefit the well-being of their pets.
Leonardo: Brazil has a huge pet population and a strong appetite for innovative products. It is also one of the largest pet populations in the world. However, the population in general and also many in the pet industry, lack proper training in pet nutrition. Organizations like PFI are working to improve this by promoting better pet food standards and educating key people. River Global supports this by connecting U.S. pet food companies with the Brazilian market to make more products available to pet owners and helping pets live longer.
How has PFI been able to address concerns around pet food in Brazil?
Giovanna: PFI has done an amazing job of building bridges between international brands and the Brazilian market. Through advocacy, partnerships, and educational initiatives, we’ve been able to bring high-quality pet food to more people while also pushing for clearer regulations and better industry practices. The work is ongoing, but every step forward makes a difference.
What moment or event stands out to you as you reflect on your work with PFI?
Leonardo: Personally, the adoption campaign changed my life. I went to an adoption campaign in partnership with PFI and the NGO Cão Sem Dono, and Rafik adopted me during the event. It is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I could see myself the impact PFI brings to people and pets.
What moment or event stands out to you as you reflect on your work with PFI?
Giovanna: One of my favorite moments was working on educational campaigns for veterinarians and industry professionals. Seeing firsthand how sharing the right information can change perspectives and improve how people care for their pets is really rewarding. Another highlight was seeing the impact of adoption initiatives—nothing beats watching a pet find their forever home!
What is your top priority regarding pet food and nutrition information in Brazil?
Giovanna: Making sure people have the right information is so important! I love seeing how a high-quality diet can transform a pet’s energy, coat, and overall well-being. My focus is on raising awareness about pet nutrition by advocating for better regulations, creating engaging educational content, or using marketing to make reliable information more accessible to pet owners and professionals alike.
Leonardo: My main priority is to help Pet Food companies navigate the Brazilian market easier, either by advocating for it or educating the suppliers to understand better and take advantage of the Brazilian Market. As PFI representative, I’m also dedicated to bringing awareness of the need of complete and balanced nutrition as well as make the business connections that will assist pet food suppliers to the USA find the right partners in Brazil and provide more options to the Brazilian pet owners.
How are you looking forward to carrying out this work in the future?
Giovanna: More advocacy, more connections, and more education! I’m looking forward to expanding PFI’s reach in Brazil, supporting brands looking to enter the market, and helping create a stronger, better-informed pet food industry.
Leonardo: I look forward into keeping advocating for Pet Food in Brazil, making the right connections to create opportunities for successful businesses and educating professionals and pet owners for complete and balanced nutrition for longer and healthier lives for the pets we love.
How can people in Brazil help to spread your messages?
Visit Our Website: www.pfibrasil.com.br
