Brazilian student wins bronze at math olympiad in New York after singing Joelma hit
Twelve-year-old student Yasmim Teófilo do Nascimento, representing Brazil at the Copernicus Mathematics Olympiad (CMO) in New York, has won a bronze medal. The competition, held at Columbia University, assesses logical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical thinking. Yasmim gained attention during the event's talent show when she performed "Voando Pro Pará," a popular song by Brazilian artist Joelma, while wearing a Brazilian national soccer team jersey. This performance occurred before the main testing day, and participants from various countries showcased their talents through singing, dancing, and playing instruments. Yasmim's bronze medal was awarded on Thursday, August 30th, based on her performance in the mathematical challenges. Her older sister, 15-year-old Beatriz Teófilo, also represented Brazil at the olympiad. Both sisters, originally from Fortaleza, have a history of success in national and international competitions. They are also involved in organizing science-related events and activities for children, focusing on science, astronomy, and aerospace technology. Beatriz, the elder sister, began her competitive journey at age 10 and has since achieved significant results, including a gold medal at the Brazilian Rocketry Olympiad and admission to the physics program at the State University of Ceará. Yasmim followed in her sister's footsteps at age 8 and has also earned accolades, such as gold medals in the Brazilian Rocketry and Satellite Olympiads. In January 2026, both sisters participated in the Copernicus Physics and Astronomy Olympiad in Houston, where Yasmin secured a silver medal and Beatriz received an honorable mention. The sisters are active in science outreach through their organization Wigpédia, which offers educational workshops to encourage young people, particularly girls, to engage with STEM fields. While in New York, they are also creating social media content highlighting innovative and sustainable city landmarks, aiming to inspire other teenagers to see science as part of daily life.
This event highlights the multifaceted nature of student achievement, where academic success in rigorous international competitions can coexist with vibrant cultural expression. The inclusion of a talent show alongside a mathematics olympiad provides a platform for diverse skills, potentially fostering a more holistic and engaging educational experience. The sisters' active involvement in science outreach, particularly targeting young girls, addresses critical gender disparities in STEM fields. Their initiative, Wigpédia, demonstrates a proactive approach to inspiring future generations by making science accessible and relatable. The dual focus on academic rigor and public engagement suggests a forward-thinking educational model that recognizes the importance of both specialized knowledge and broader societal impact, particularly in an era increasingly shaped by technological advancement.
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