Bringing the Summit Home: Roberto’s Story of Workplace Revival

When Roberto Silva Paião, a CEO from Santa Catarina, Brazil, attended his first Global Leadership Summit (GLS) in 2013, he was navigating a major transition—from leading robotic systems in the automotive industry to overseeing handcrafted yacht manufacturing. What he discovered at GLS was more than just leadership insight; it was a calling to lead with purpose and to invest deeply in the people around him.

Today, as CEO of Okean Yachts, Wilson leads a 100% artisanal team crafting vessels for two prestigious brands—Okean and Ferretti Yachts. But the real story isn’t just about building luxury yachts. It’s about building people.

Inspired by the leadership principles he encountered at GLS, Wilson brought the Summit experience back to his team. At first, it wasn’t easy. Many employees—especially older workers—were hesitant. “They didn’t want to waste their time sitting in a room learning about leadership,” he says. But the stories shared at GLS began to resonate, just as they had once moved Wilson himself. Slowly, resistance gave way to openness, and hearts began to change.

One of the most remarkable transformations was that of Mr. Manuel, a veteran employee in his 50s. Initially skeptical, Manuel eventually engaged with the leadership content and made the decision to return to school—a powerful testimony to the ripple effect of leadership done well. “His wife approached me and said, ‘What are you doing? He’s changed.’”

Wilson attributes this shift to what GLS represents: a mindset of elevating excellence, education, and integrity. “Leadership is about raising the bar in every area of life,” he explains. “It’s about helping people see their purpose and believe they are capable of more.”

Today, Wilson is not only leading a thriving business—he’s also mentoring others and helping expand the GLS movement across Santa Catarina through Envisionar. He sees his work as a calling, guided by his favorite scripture, Colossians 3:23–24: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…

With six children and a vibrant family life centered on faith and homeschooling, Wilson is passionate about integrating leadership with values that shape not only work culture, but also community.

Watch Wilson’s story to see how the Global Leadership Summit is making an impact far beyond the stage—changing hearts, transforming businesses, and raising a generation of leaders who serve with excellence.