Participant Handbook

English – Download as PDF

11th World Blindness Summit

São Paulo, Brazil – September 1st to 5th, 2025

1 WELCOME

A very warm welcome to the 11th World Blindness Summit!

It is an immense joy to host you at the largest international event for blind and partially sighted people, bringing together participants from over 150 countries.

We are living a historic moment: for the first time, this meeting takes place in Latin America and in the heart of Brazil.

Here, among warm hugs, sincere smiles, and the welcoming spirit that defines us, we will share ideas, experiences, and dreams.

Together, we will build connections and debates that can transform policies and initiatives for over 300 million blind or partially sighted people worldwide.

2 IMPORTANCE OF THE EVENT

The 11th World Blindness Summit represents much more than a conference: it is a historic milestone for inclusion and international cooperation.

Bringing together participants from over 150 countries, the event promotes a global dialogue on challenges, achievements, and innovations that directly impact the lives of millions of people.

Its hosting in Brazil, for the first time in Latin America, reinforces the region’s role in building public policies, assistive technologies, and inclusive practices that transcend borders.

More than debating ideas, the meeting values human exchange, strengthening respect, empathy, and unity among cultures, with the common goal of building a more accessible, fair, and inclusive future for all.

3 PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT

This guide provides essential information about the event, its schedule, structure, available services, and practical guidance.

Although the information is detailed, activities are dynamic and may be adjusted for better logistics and comfort, without compromising quality.

Here you will also find useful tips for your stay in São Paulo, including transportation, safety, climate, currency, communication, and accessibility, so your experience is practical, safe, and memorable.

Our goal is to ensure that each participant makes the most of not only the meeting’s content but also the unique experience that Brazil and São Paulo have to offer.

4 GENERAL EVENT INFORMATION

Date: September 1 to 5, 2025

Venue: Anhembi Convention District –

São Paulo – SP, Brazil

Address: Rua Professor Milton Rodrigues –

Santana, São Paulo – SP, 02012-021

Official website:

www.mundialdadeficienciavisual.com.br

4.1 Communication

Follow the main news of the World Blindness Summit on ONCB’s social media:

Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn,

always under the name ONCB na Rede.

The event will be fully broadcast by

Rádio ONCB, in Portuguese and English.

Download the Rádio ONCB app on your phone

(Android and iOS).

It will also be broadcast on the official YouTube channel (ONCB na Rede) and on Claro TV channel 533, available to over 7 million of the operator’s subscribers.

4.2 Special Invitation – Laramara

The Brazilian Association for Assistance to People with Visual Impairment – Laramara invites participants of the 11th World Blindness Summit to visit its headquarters, learn about the organization’s work, and exchange experiences.

Date: September 1st (Monday), from 09:00 to 11:00. Registration: via email angela.paiva@laramara.org.br, sending full name and country of origin. Spots are limited.

Laramara Address: Rua Conselheiro Brotero, 338 – Barra Funda, São Paulo.

5 INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL VISITORS – DOCUMENTATION AND ENTRY TO BRAZIL

5.1 Passport

Must be valid for at least six (6) months from the date of expiry.

5.2 Visa

Required for citizens of some countries. Check the website of the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to verify the requirement.

5.3 International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (CIVP)

To enter Brazil, the yellow fever vaccine is required for travelers coming from certain countries. Check the updated list on official health websites before traveling.

Website for verification: Obtain the International Certificate of Vaccination

5.4 Entry of Guide Dogs

To enter Brazil, it is mandatory to comply with the sanitary requirements established by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA).

Documents and deadlines:

• International Veterinary Certificate (CVI): mandatory document, issued by the official veterinary authority of the country of origin, attesting that the animal meets the sanitary requirements demanded by Brazil.
• Valid Rabies Vaccination: mandatory for dogs over 90 days old. Must have been administered at least 30 days before travel and be within the validity period.

• Parasite treatment: must be carried out up to 15 days before the issuance of the CVI, against internal and external parasites.
• Veterinary clinical examination: the animal must undergo an evaluation attesting to good health conditions up to 10 days before the issuance of the CVI.
• Restrictions for leishmaniasis: animals with a positive diagnosis will not be allowed to enter the country.
• Inspection upon arrival (VIGIAGRO): at the Brazilian airport, the guide dog must undergo inspection by VIGIAGRO (International Agricultural Surveillance).
• Check VIGIAGRO units in São Paulo: MAPA – Agricultural Surveillance Units

1. CURRENCY EXCHANGE AND PAYMENTS

6.1 Local Currency

Brazilian Real (R$).

6.2 Payment Methods

International credit and debit cards are widely accepted in commercial establishments, hotels, restaurants, and services.

6.3 Currency Exchange

Official exchange offices are available at airports, shopping malls, and central areas. For greater security, it is recommended to compare rates and avoid unauthorized locations.

Options near the event:

• Shopping Center Norte – 15 minutes by car from the Convention Center (about 4 km). Address: Rua Zaki Marchi, 500 – Vila Guilherme.

• West Plaza Shopping – 15 minutes by car from the event (about 6 km, subject to traffic).

Address: Av. Francisco Matarazzo, s/n – Água Branca.

6.4 International Payments

An alternative accepted in Brazil is the use of international payment apps, such as Wise, which performs automatic currency conversion for transfers and payments.

7 ARRIVAL GUIDANCE FOR BRAZIL

7.1 Time Zone

Brazil follows Brasília time (GMT-3).

Differences relative to some countries:

• Portugal: +4 hours
• USA (New York): -1 hour
• Japan: +12 hours

• South Africa: +5 hours

7.2 Climate and Forecast (September 1-5)

São Paulo has mild weather at this time of year, with average temperatures between 15°C and 24°C.

Light drizzles are common, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.

♦ We recommend bringing a sweater for colder nights.

8 DISTANCES AND ESTIMATED TIME

8.1 Hotel Holiday Inn → Anhembi Convention Center

Participants staying at the Holiday Inn will have direct access to the Convention Center through an internal entrance, just a few meters from the hotel reception, located within the complex.

8.2 Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) → Anhembi Convention Center

• Distance: approximately 29 km by road.
• Travel time: about 1 hour (subject to traffic variations, especially during peak hours).

Note: during disembarkation of persons with disabilities, the most common practice is for the procedure to be carried out last, ensuring accompaniment until:

• the Federal Revenue visa center,
• the baggage claim area,
• and the app-based transportation points.

8.3 Congonhas Airport (domestic flights) → Anhembi Convention Center

• Distance: approximately 16 km by road.
• Travel time: between 30 and 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

8.4 Transport between airports and hotels

Transport between Congonhas and Guarulhos airports, as well as to the Holiday Inn hotel and the Convention Center, is the responsibility of each participant.

Recommendation: do not accept transportation offers from third parties. Use only app-based transportation or official taxis available at the airports.

8.5 Paralympic Training Center → Anhembi Convention Center

• Distance: between 20 and 25 km (varies depending on the route).
• Travel time: between 40 minutes and 1 hour, depending on traffic.

Note: participants staying at the Training Center will have guaranteed transportation, in partnership with the São Paulo City Hall, in the early morning to the Anhembi District and for the return at the end of the day. Travel at other times is the participant’s responsibility.

8.6 Closest Metro Station

• Station: Portuguesa–Tietê (Line 1 – Blue).
• Note: the station is integrated with the Tietê Bus Terminal, facilitating the arrival of participants coming from other cities.

8.7 Accessibility

Most transport and access routes to the event have adaptations for people with disabilities, including visual impairments,

ensuring safety and comfort during movement.

1. MEANS OF TRANSPORT IN SÃO PAULO

9.1 Regular Taxis

Available at airports, hotels, and official city stands. Recommendation: use only authorized taxis for greater safety and fair prices.

9.2 App-Based Taxis

Services like Uber, 99, and others are widely used in São Paulo, offering convenience and competitive prices. Attention: prices may vary according to time and demand.

9.3 Metro

São Paulo has an extensive and efficient metro network.

• All stations have specialized assistance for people with disabilities.
• When boarding, inform at which station you will disembark.
• Station closest to the Anhembi Convention Center: Portuguesa–Tietê (Line 1 – Blue).

9.4 Bus

The bus system covers a large part of the metropolitan region.

• At major terminals, such as Tietê Terminal, there is specialized assistance for people with disabilities.
• Recommendation: check routes and schedules in advance via apps like Moovit or Google Maps.

9.5 Event Transportation

World Blind Union (WBU) delegates will have free transfer:

• Airports: Guarulhos (international) and Congonhas (domestic);
• Destination: Hotel Holiday Inn or Residential at the Paralympic Training Center;
• Period: from August 28 to September 6, upon completion of the request form.
• SAFETY IN SÃO PAULO
• Keep documents, money, and valuables always secure.
• Avoid displaying cell phones, cameras, and electronic equipment in public streets.
• Be aware in crowded places (metro, buses, events).

• Always check if the app vehicle and driver match the data in the app.
• In case of emergency, immediately seek authorities or event support points.

10.1 Event Insurance

During the period from September 1 to 5, from 9 am to 8 pm, at the Anhembi Convention Center, all participants will be insured against accidents and/or death, through a partnership with Capemisa Seguradora and Capemisa Capitalização.

11 COMMUNICATION, CELL NETWORK, AND INTERNET

11.1 Telephone Code

• Brazil: +55

• São Paulo (Area Code): 11

11.2 Coverage and Operators

São Paulo has excellent mobile network coverage (4G and 5G).

Main operators: Vivo, Claro, TIM, and Oi.

11.3 Internet Connection

• Free Wi-Fi available at the event.
• To avoid instability, it is recommended:

○ check international roaming costs with your operator, or ○ purchase a local prepaid SIM card (available at airports, malls, and official stores).

Tips:

• Prefer reliable Wi-Fi networks.
• Use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Zoom, which work very well in Brazil.

• Prepaid SIM card is a safe and affordable alternative.
• EMERGENCY CONTACTS
• Organization: Brenda Mendes – WhatsApp +55 11 93924-8217 (PT, EN, ES, FR).
• Ambulance: 192
• Police: 190
• Fire Department: 193
• Hospital Mandaqui (free): Rua Voluntários da Pátria, 4301 – Tel. +55 11 2281-5000
• Hospital São Camilo (paid): Rua Voluntários da Pátria, 3693 – Tel. +55 11 2229-3000
• Farmácia Drogaria São Paulo (24h): Av. Braz Leme, 2034 – Tel. +55 11 2973-6508

Recommendations:

• When checking in, leave an emergency contact registered.
• Bring continuous-use medication; the organization will not provide them.
• There will be a medical center and ambulance available at the event.

13 EVENT PROGRAM

• Opening Ceremony: Sept 1st – 6 PM – Dorina Nowill Auditorium (Anhembi).
• Gala Dinner: Sept 3rd – 7:30 PM – Hotel Unique (exclusive activity with ticket).
• Panels and Conferences: international experts debating current topics on visual impairment.

• International Assistive Technology Fair: Sept 2-5, parallel to other activities.
• Workshops (World Blindness Summit Connection): technical, cultural, and innovation workshops.
• Cultural Presentations and Inclusive Sensory Experiences.
• Full program: mundialdadeficinciavisual.com.br/congresso-tecnico-científico

1. EVENT SCHEDULE
2. Lectures, panels, and conferences: 09:00 to 18:00 – check the schedule grid.
3. Assistive Technology Fair: 09:00 to 19:00.
4. ACCESSIBILITY AT THE EVENT

15.1 Tactile and braille signage:

present at various points to facilitate orientation and mobility of participants.

15.2 Audio description

Will be available in English and Portuguese, accessible via the Beplay | Accessibility Services app. To use the feature, the participant must download the app on their phone from the respective app store.

15.3 Simultaneous translation

Offered in the main activities in English, French, and Spanish, promoting international linguistic inclusion.

15.4 Specialized teams

Trained volunteers will be available to offer personalized support to people with visual impairments throughout the event. We will have bilingual volunteers, but we ask for collaboration and understanding in situations of more complex communication.

15.5 NaviLens Technology

At some points of the event and possibly at the reception of the Holiday Inn hotel, participants will be able to use NaviLens, a tool that integrates artificial intelligence and augmented reality (part of Google Lens). Just point your phone at QR Codes to access features that aid in navigation and interaction with the environment. The QR Codes will be applied at key points in the event space, such as bathrooms, auditoriums, rooms, and stands, and may also be installed on the ground floor of the Holiday Inn Hotel – bathrooms, restaurant, and elevator.

16 FOOD

16.1 Meals included in the event

Officially registered participants will have lunch guaranteed on September 2, 3, 4, and 5. These lunches will be served at the Holiday Inn Anhembi Hotel, with varied options and attention to special dietary needs. Lunch will be served from 12:00 to 14:30. Due to the large number of participants, the limited number of volunteers, and the demands related to language and accessibility, we count on everyone’s collaboration so that the tables and spaces intended for meals are used exclusively for this purpose. For conversations and social interactions, we ask that you prefer the other common areas, ensuring better organization and comfort for everyone.

16.2 Breakfast

Participants staying at the Paralympic Training Center and the Holiday Inn hotel will have free breakfast.

16.3 Coffee tasting

During the event, there will be free tasting of famous Brazilian coffee, through a partnership with the company Três Corações.

16.4 Dinner

Dinner is the responsibility of each participant, who can choose from various restaurant options near the event venue and the hotel, including accessible places with adapted menus.

16.5 Personal expenses at accommodations

Personal expenses at the Holiday Inn Hotel or the Paralympic Training Center are the responsibility of the guests. The organization and ONCB are not responsible for these expenses.

16.6 Nearby and accessible restaurants

São Paulo offers a wide gastronomic variety, with accessible restaurants near Anhembi and the hotel. We will indicate options that meet different preferences and dietary restrictions.

16.7 Tips on Brazilian cuisine

Brazilian cuisine is rich and diverse, with intense flavors and fresh ingredients. Take the opportunity to try typical dishes like feijoada, pão de queijo, acarajé, and tropical fruits.

17 TIPS FOR RESTAURANTS NEAR THE ANHEMBI DISTRICT AND HOLIDAY INN – UP TO 10 KM

. Coco Bambu Address: Av. Braz Leme, 201, São Paulo – SP Distance: approximately 1.5 km from Anhembi District Price: $$$ (medium-high price) Description: restaurant specializing in seafood, with a varied menu and spacious environment. Ideal for groups and families.

Churrascaria Address: Av. Olavo Fontoura, 327, São Paulo – SP Distance: approximately 1.2 km from Anhembi District Price: $$$ (medium-high price) Description: traditional Brazilian steakhouse with meat rodizio and varied buffet. Spacious and accessible environment.

• Nosu Japanese Cuisine Address: Rua Maria Curupaiti, 414, Santana, São Paulo – SP Distance: approximately 5 km from Anhembi District Price: $$ (medium price) Description: Japanese restaurant with diverse menu, including sushi and hot dishes. Modern and accessible environment.

Pizzeria Marcoluccio – Santana Address: Av. Braz Leme, 2145, Santana, São Paulo – SP Distance: approximately 3 km from Anhembi District Price: $$ (medium price) Description: traditional pizzeria with wood-fired oven and varied menu. Welcoming and accessible environment.

18 NEARBY SHOPPING MALLS

• Shopping Center Norte Address: Rua Zaki Narchi, 500 – Vila Guilherme, São Paulo – SP Located in the same complex as the Anhembi Convention District, it offers various stores, food court, services, and entertainment.

• LarCenterAddress: Rua Zaki Narchi, 1000 – Vila Guilherme, São Paulo – SP Also located in the Anhembi complex, Lar Center is known for furniture, decoration stores, as well as food and leisure options.
• ShoppingDAddress: Av. Cruzeiro do Sul, 1117 – Santana, São Paulo – SP A few minutes from Anhembi, with a variety of stores, restaurants, and services, being a convenient alternative for shopping and leisure.

1. CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT IN SÃO PAULO

São Paulo is known for its cultural diversity and the warm receptiveness of its people. Paulistanos, although fast and efficient, are usually welcoming and helpful, especially with international visitors. It is common for people to offer help spontaneously and the city values inclusion and respect for differences.

19 Tourism

19.1 Tips for accessible tours and landmarks

• Museu do Ipiranga: fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and audio description in selected exhibitions.
• Avenida Paulista: various accessible metro stations, museums, cultural centers, and parks along the avenue.
• Parque Ibirapuera: has paths adapted for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility.

• Theatro Municipal de São Paulo: offers accessibility and audio description for selected performances.
• Pinacoteca do Estado: museum with infrastructure adapted for visitors with disabilities.
• Mercadão Municipal: main gastronomic space of the city, offering immersion in typical Brazilian flavors.
• MASP: Iconic museum on Avenida Paulista, with collections of Brazilian and international art and excellent accessible infrastructure.
• Liberdade Neighborhood: center of Japanese culture in São Paulo, with accessible markets, stores, and restaurants, offering a unique cultural experience.

19.2 Nightlife and safety São Paulo has a vibrant nightlife, with bars, restaurants, live music venues, and theaters spread throughout the city. Areas like Vila Madalena, Jardins, and Itaim are famous for their safety and diversity of options.

20 CULTURAL AGENDA

During the period from August 30 to September 5, 2025, São Paulo offers a rich cultural program through the Agenda Cultural Viva SP, the official platform of the State Government that brings together free and accessible events throughout the city.

To check the full program and filter events by date, location, and type of activity, access: Agenda Viva SP

21 TIPS ON BRAZILIAN CULTURE AND ETIQUETTE

The most common greeting is a handshake. Among friends, a hug or a kiss on the cheek is common. Punctuality is important for professional appointments, but small delays are common in social events. Brazilians are welcoming and friendly, valuing cordiality in relationships.

• LET’S MAKE A BETTER EVENT TOGETHER To ensure a pleasant and safe experience for everyone, we ask for the collaboration of each participant by following these guidelines:
• Courtesy and respect:treat everyone politely, from volunteers and speakers to other participants. Small gestures of kindness make a big difference.
• Patience:in large events, queues, waits, and small delays may occur. Remain calm and respect others’ time.
• Cooperation and solidarity: help colleagues when possible, whether by sharing information or offering support.
• Appropriate use of spaces: use the tables and meal areas only for eating. For conversations and meetings, prefer the common areas intended for socialization.
• Collective service: follow the instructions of the organization team and volunteers, contributing so that everyone has a safe and organized experience.
• Digital etiquette: keep the volume of conversations on apps or calls at adequate levels, avoiding disturbing other participants.

• Punctuality: arrive on time for panels, activities, and meals.
• Attention to accessibility: respect the spaces and resources intended for people with disabilities.
• Water: tap water in São Paulo is potable and treated, but we recommend not drinking it.
• Hygiene: do not throw toilet paper in the toilet; use the trash bins next to it.
• USEFUL PHRASES IN PORTUGUESE

Greetings:

• Olá / Oi — Hello / Hi
• Bom dia — Good morning
• Boa tarde — Good afternoon
• Boa noite — Good evening / Good night

• Como vai? — How are you?
• Prazer em conhecê-lo/la — Nice to meet you

Basic questions:

• Onde fica o banheiro? — Where is the bathroom?
• Quanto custa? — How much does it cost?
• Você fala inglês? — Do you speak English?
• Pode me ajudar? — Can you help me?
• Como chego ao centro de convenções? — How do I get to the convention center?

Simple guidance:

• Preciso de um táxi, por favor. — I need a taxi, please.
• Estou perdido(a). — I am lost.
• Quero fazer uma reserva. — I want to make a reservation.

• Onde posso comprar um chip de celular? —
  Where can I buy a SIM card?
• Tenho alergia a… — I am allergic to…
• FINAL THANKS

We greatly appreciate your presence at this meeting, which goes beyond an event — it is a global movement for the inclusion and rights of blind and partially sighted people. Your participation is essential for us to build together a transformative legacy that will make a difference for many generations. Thank you for being part of this journey!

ORGANIZATION 11th World Blindness Summit

SUPPORTERS AND SPONSORS

• Hosted by: ONCB – National Organization of the Blind of Brazil and WBU – World Blind Union
• Co-hosted by: CPB – Brazilian Paralympic Committee, CBDV – Brazilian Confederation of Sports for the Visually Impaired, and SMPED – Municipal Secretariat for the Person with Disabilities of São Paulo
• Sponsors and supporters:
  • Associação Fernanda Bianchini
  • Capemisa Seguradora
  • Capemisa
  • CBO – Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology
  • FOAL – ONCE Foundation for Latin America
  • Fundação Dorina Nowill para Cegos
  • Google
  • Laramara
  • Mastercard
  • Meta
  • Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación Español
  • ONCE – Organización Nacional de Ciegos de España
  • SBB – Sociedade Bíblica do Brasil
  • SEDPcD – State Secretariat for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
  • SNDPD – National Secretariat for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
  • Três Corações