In July 2023 I got a phone call from Sergio Lopes in Miami and he asked if I might be interested in a project in Brazil.
“We want to save the Amazon Rainforest, protect the Indigenous Peoples and their cultures…and use the power of music to promote our mission”, explained Sergio.
I immediately said YES!
I had never met Sergio but he knew my Father Claes Nobel and our organization United Earth very well. It was a perfect match. I immediately wrote a letter giving my unconditional support this fantastic project.
After a few weeks we had the support of the Mayor of Manaus, Honda Brazil and Telecom a local cell phone provider. Sergio had raised $200,000. It was the first of many signs that Sergio had a unique gift of connecting people and their projects.
Sergio had a long and colorful history in the music and entertainment industries with a very well stocked rolodex. He knew everybody and everybody knew him and even after decades his contacts would return his call and be happy to speak with him. He was always kind and warm and funny.
Also, Sergio knew how to spot and promote talent. He saw in me what I did not see in myself. He believed that the vision of Claes Nobel and United Earth could live on in the Amazonia Awards.
The inaugural Amazonia Awards was a fantastic success. It took place in the Manaus Opera House, built 1892 by an Italian Rubber Barron with the help of imported Italian artisans.
The day before the event was scheduled to take place I walked across the street from the hotel where the LCTM team was staying and I went and sat down in the first few rows to listen to the orchestra rehearsing.
As I looked up at the stage there was full screen projection of the Amazon Rainforest. It was all green, lush, dense and impenetrable…and there in the upper right hand corner was the United Earth logo. I sat there with tears in my eyes and clearly felt the unmistakable presence of my father, who had passed away four years ago. It was a profoundly moving moment for me.
A few weeks ago Sergio invited me to participate in an open Zoomcall: LIFE AMBASSADORS, The Fine Art of Saving Lives, to discuss the many issues involved with heart transplants. I would stupidly joke about God having very special plans for Sergio Lopes because he had two heart transplants.
Someone asked whether having a women’s heart affected his behavior or thoughts. I asked the group an innocent question, I thought… a spiritual question. When does the spirit leave the body? Where does the Soul go?
It was a great discussion…and a premonition.
Just as I felt my Father’s presence in the Manaus Opera House I can still feel Sergio’s energy. His kindness, diplomacy, and sense of humor. We both loved to laugh!
Sergio I will always remember you and what you have done for myself, United Earth and the vision of Claes Nobel.
Your spirit lives on.
God Bless you.
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