Our DNA is to grow with vision and move forward with purpose.
Embravan was born from pain transformed into purpose. Founded by Gisele Abrantes in 2022, Embravan emerged from the real-life experience of a Brazilian immigrant who faced the challenges of starting a business in a new country, alone, navigating bureaucracy, lacking guidance, and disconnected from her community.
Seeing that many other Brazilians were facing the same struggles in Vancouver, Gisele decided to create what she never had: a safe, welcoming, and strategic support network for Brazilian entrepreneurs.
At the heart of Embravan is a clear and committed DNA:
We support small businesses, connect the dots, and act as facilitators of opportunity.
Our projects are tools for transformation, with a strong focus on business growth and real results.
“Embravan was born from my courage to start a business in unfamiliar territory — alone, uncertain, but determined. I felt the deep pain of isolation and the weight of being an immigrant entrepreneur with no clear path. Yet, over time, this journey turned into a true passion. I realized I could go beyond myself and make a difference in the lives of many. Even in the face of doubt, the projects I’ve created have delivered consistent results, strengthening our presence and expanding our impact in the community.”
Gisele Abrantes
Gisele Abrantes is a Brazilian entrepreneur, project manager (PMP), and former Petrobras executive with over 12 years of corporate experience.
Originally from Rio de Janeiro, she built a solid career in banking and oil and gas before making a bold move to Vancouver at age 47, without speaking English.
Starting over wasn’t easy. Gisele faced cultural barriers, underemployment, and the loneliness of immigration. However, her resilience led her to study customer service and business management, gaining a deep understanding of the Canadian market.
In 2022, recognizing the lack of support for immigrant entrepreneurs, she founded Embravan — a platform to connect, support, and empower Brazilian small business owners in British Columbia. What began as a Facebook group quickly grew into a strong community driving collaboration and local impact.
Today, Gisele leads Embravan with purpose: building bridges between people, businesses, and dreams.
We are Brazilians entrepreneurs—creative, bold, and resilient.
We work hard, with empathy, focus, and purpose.
We believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of building bridges, not walls.
We create real impact: we open businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy.
We are a network. A bridge. A space for listening, learning, and growth.
Regardless of their knowledge of the Canadian market, all Brazilians are welcome and have the opportunity to grow, connect, and be part of an inclusive community that values diversity.
Embravan is committed to being a support system for all Brazilians who want to venture into the Canadian market, offering workshops, networking events, mentorships, and access to resources that drive growth and adaptation within Canada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Aligned with technology and innovation, Embravan strives to stay connected to the latest and most up-to-date developments in the Canadian market.
We believe in the power of connections and the sharing of knowledge.
We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs in reaching their goals.
To give voice and visibility to Brazilian entrepreneurs in Vancouver by providing support, guidance, and resources to facilitate their transition and success in the Canadian market.
We believe in a society where no immigrant has to start over alone.
A society that recognizes, supports, and empowers the talents and dreams of those who seek to build a new life through hard work and the courage to become entrepreneurs.
We envision a world where diversity is a strength, collaboration comes naturally, and growth is shared.
