Brazil’s poorest communities are squatting in abandoned government buildings. Despite billions of dollars pledged by the authorities, Rio’s poorest are yet to see the benefits. In the Favela Manguiera community, only 1km from the Maracana stadium, hundreds of families are squatting in empty buildings with no santitation, running water or security. But despite the difficulties of their living conditions, this community is bound together by a sense of camaraderie, dignity and a pride in the place they call home.

For more on my work “Empty Promises - Priced out of Rio's favelas” please copy/paste this link @bbcnews https://bbc.in/37eZNS1

Nearly 12 million people, half of whom are women, live in favela communities in Brazil. Nevertheless, favelas are also characterized by a high rate of local pride: 80% of favela residents surveyed are proud of where they live, and 70% say they would continue to live there even if their income doubled. Women play a particularly large role in favela communities, heading 42% of homes.

For more on my work “Women of the Favela” please copy/paste this link @guardian https://bit.ly/3cDgYxm

Music to this video: “Temporary” composed by Othon @OthonPanMuzik

©Tariq Zaidi Photography. All Rights Reserved.