Newman de Lira e Melo Neto

Newman is a record-breaking student, educator, and changemaker from Recife, Brazil, whose journey of resilience and innovation is transforming lives through inclusive education. Despite being autistic and growing up in poverty, without specialised support, Newman has turned adversity into purpose. He holds a national record for passing first place in 12 federal internship selections, including at Brazil’s Superior Court of Justice and national health agencies – a feat recognised by RankBrasil and featured on national television.

But Newman’s proudest achievements are not his awards – they are his impact. As the founder of Xadrez Sem Fronteiras (Chess Without Borders), he has provided free chess education to hundreds of children across Brazil for over a decade. He believes chess builds not only critical thinking but also confidence and community, particularly for youth with limited access to extracurricular learning.

Through the Instituto Polymathos, Newman has further democratised education, organising monthly Olympiads in science, astronomy, and renewable energy; literacy competitions; and events where proceeds go entirely to charity. His initiative also promotes rising talents through the “Cientista da Semana” spotlight series. Hundreds have participated, learning that science can be both fun and socially impactful.

Newman is also a passionate environmentalist and social inclusion advocate. He has participated in campaigns with Greenpeace and the Lions Club, helped clean over 200kg of waste from Recife’s mangroves, supported families of autistic children through local government partnerships, and serves as a civic mentor through Politize! Recife and Technovation Girls.

Despite facing multiple personal and family hardships – including caring for a sick grandmother and enduring depression – Newman never stopped learning. Today, he is pursuing eight degrees simultaneously (including Law, Economics, and Data Science), working as a programmer at NTT DATA, and mentoring students nationwide. He is also a Mensa International and ISPE member, reflecting his rare intellectual capacity.

Newman plans to use the Global Student Prize to expand Xadrez Sem Fronteiras and Instituto Polymathos nationwide, fund digital learning platforms, and develop support systems for autistic youth. His story is a testament to how determination, empathy, and innovation can break cycles of disadvantage – and empower others to do the same.