Usina da Paz do Guamá is the stage for a story of love and companionship
On this Valentine's Day, get to know the story of the couple, João and Jovelina Passos, together for 48 years, who participated in the sewing course at the community complex
In the month that celebrates Valentine's Day, the Usina da Paz do Guamá, in Belém, was the stage for an inspiring story of love, companionship, and partnership. João Passos, 77, and Jovelina Passos, 75, married for 48 years, participated together in the sewing course offered by the complex, fulfilling a childhood dream of hers.
João's gesture was more than a demonstration of love: it was a true encouragement for his wife not to give up in the face of initial difficulties.
“She dreamed since she was a girl of learning to sew, and when this opportunity appeared at Usina, I wanted to encourage her not to give up. The course brought us even closer and increased our love. Our family is our greatest prize, and I take care every day to nurture our relationship,” he said.
The story of João and Jovelina began in the Guamá neighborhood, where they met at a bus stop. From this meeting was born a union that has lasted almost half a century and bore fruit: three children and four granddaughters. On the next December 27, the couple will celebrate 49 years of marriage.
“Sewing was an old dream that was kept in my heart, and being able to realize this alongside my husband was very good. He is my companion for everything, from medical appointments to fun. Having him with me in the Usina activity was another act of love. For me, love is companionship, it is support too,” Jovelina highlighted.
In addition to more than 70 free services in fundamental areas for social transformation, the Usinas da Paz also strengthen family bonds and promote stories like that of João and Jovelina. “The Usinas da Paz play a fundamental role in strengthening families in Pará. They are spaces that offer support, guidance, and opportunities for healthy coexistence. When families are well, the whole community strengthens,” emphasized Elieth Braga, head of the State Secretariat for Citizenship Articulation (Seac).
The sewing course is one of the activities that encourage learning and entrepreneurship in the fashion world. During the training, participants learn sewing techniques and how to handle machines. More than 5,000 students have already been qualified by the Usinas, with courses ranging from basic to advanced, through the State Secretariat for Science, Technology, and Higher, Professional, and Technological Education (Sectet).
