Speaker · Conference chair · Moderator

Book Augusto
for your event.

Keynotes and talks on polarisation, social cohesion and freedom. Conference chairing and moderation for events bringing different perspectives together. Drawing on over twenty years of practical experience and a broad background in media and performance.

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Augusto speaking at an event
Substance, stage experience and a feel for the room.
Keynotes of 30–45 minutesDutch & EnglishTailored to your audienceRead the biography ↗

The keynotes

A different perspective starts here.

01 / 45 minutes

Who holds the middle?

On polarisation, the forces of cohesion and what it takes to actively hold the middle.

How does polarisation work in neighbourhoods, organisations and teams? And which forces sustain the social fabric? A relatable reflection, starting with the Connector, Recogniser, Narrative Builder and Quiet Supporter.

  • Insight into the dynamics of polarisation
  • Learn to recognise the four forces of cohesion
  • A concrete step for tomorrow, in your own context
Audience & format

For local government professionals, neighbourhood teams, policy officers, HR teams and managers. Also suited to conferences on democracy, participation and cohesion.

45 minutes, optionally combined with an interactive exercise or panel discussion. Also suitable for opening or closing an event.

Discuss this keynote

02 / 30–45 minutes

Feeling free starts within

On freedom, connection and the courage to choose the middle in divided times.

From my roots in Angola, Portugal and Cape Verde to life in the Bijlmer. Drawing on Anton de Kom, Ubuntu and a barbecue that achieved more than ten public consultation meetings, I explore freedom as a daily practice.

  • See freedom as a daily choice
  • Practical examples of holding the middle
  • Inspiration and courage to keep seeking connection
Audience & format

For commemorative events, liberation dinners, conferences on democracy and citizenship, and organisations working on inclusion and connection.

30 to 45 minutes, as a main talk or an inspiring contribution to a themed event.

Discuss this keynote

Conference chairing & moderation

The person who keeps the room connected.

At conferences, panel discussions and events where tensions may surface, I bring depth of expertise. I keep the conversation on track and ensure that difficult questions are asked too.

Good to know

  • Every keynote is tailored to the audience and context
  • Available in Dutch and English
  • For small events (30 people) and large conferences (2,000+)
  • Travel expenses outside the Randstad region are charged separately
  • Book discussions and tailored sessions on Het Cohesieveld can be booked separately

The first step

Book Augusto for your event?

Tell me the date, audience and purpose of your event. We will discuss content, availability and a suitable proposal.

Check availability

Experiences of working together

What others take away.

“We looked differently. We listened more closely. We challenged our own assumptions.”

Stichting VreedzaamTrainer inspiration session · LinkedIn post

“The combination of knowledge and expertise gained through experience made his contributions highly valuable and brought depth to the conversation.”

Raphaël BoonProject leader for diversity, inclusion and equality · Event in Leiden · LinkedIn recommendation, 18 March 2026

“An incredibly inspiring and educational collaboration”

Anneke van DijkCo-founder and publisher, Verhaal met Impact · Collaboration on the book · LinkedIn recommendation, 28 May 2026

Excerpts from LinkedIn recommendations and a post, translated from Dutch.