English language classes offer escape route from favelas

Tourism is a critical part of the economy of Rio de Janeiro. Image: Children of a Rio favela (SBS)

Children of a Rio favela Source: SBS

But to enter the market, more and more companies expect job applicants to have a basic level of English comprehension.

 

And that puts many Brazilians living in favelas, or shanty towns, at an increased disadvantage.

 

At least, it did -- until Favela Phoenix entered the scene.