From Shelter to Platform: The Instituto Bola Pra Frente in the Muquiço Complex, Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

The paper discusses the role of the Instituto Bola Pra Frente in the Muquiço Complex, Rio de Janeiro, building from a historical analysis of the region and three theoretical references: the concepts of space and place, as developed by Yi-Fu Tuan; the concept of relational infrastructures, as described by Abdoumaliq Simone; and the effectuation approach to entrepreneurship, as proposed by Saras Sarasvathy. The crossing of these three theoretical references aim to understand some of the phenomena identified in the first stages of research:  the dialectical tension between place/space, pause/movement and periphery/city; the fluid forms of action and organization that turn improvisation into a way of life; the numerous examples of creativity/industriousness that go beyond plans and market laws. The paper concludes with an analysis of the Institute’s activities during the global Covid-19 pandemic, which coincides with the emergence of a stronger protagonism of the local youth.