Guaraní communities in Brazil launch Nhandeflix to preserve culture with technology

In the Tenondé Porã indigenous territory, south of São Paulo, Brazil, a unique solution has emerged to combat the erosion of Guaraní culture in the digital age. Faced with young people becoming engrossed in short-form videos and losing touch with their traditions, the community initially considered disconnecting from the internet entirely.

The pervasive influence of globalized digital content, particularly during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, had led to young members of the Guaraní communities becoming absorbed by their phones. Elders expressed deep concern as children and adolescents lost track of time and disengaged from collective activities, leading to constant isolation.

Recognizing that a complete ban might push youth to seek internet access elsewhere, the community opted for a more nuanced approach. Through dialogue and participation, they conceived Nhandeflix, a digital platform designed to reclaim technology while safeguarding their deep-rooted cultural identity. This initiative was realized through a partnership with Intervozes, a Brazilian civil society organization advocating for communication rights, and Coolab, a cooperative specializing in community telecommunications networks.

Nhandeflix aims to provide a space for native content, ensuring that technology serves to strengthen, rather than diminish, the Guaraní way of life. The platform represents a conscious effort to harness the power of the internet for cultural preservation and community cohesion, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity for future generations.