When, in 2022, I represented TotalMobility in establishing a partnership with Rock in Rio Lisboa in the field of Accessibility and Mobility, I had no idea how profoundly this experience would impact my professional and personal life.
The name Rock in Rio commands respect. Working on accessibility for a major festival with two decades of history in Portugal was both challenging and inspiring. The 2022 edition marked the beginning of an extraordinary relationship with the festival’s Sustainability and Accessibility team.
From my first meeting with Thiago Amaral, it was clear we shared the same vision — to create something truly meaningful. Despite the ocean between us, we were united by a common goal: to make Rock in Rio Lisboa an example of inclusion. For the first time, the festival offered free adapted transport, a small repair workshop, and assistive products for visitors with reduced mobility.
The impact was immediate. Rock in Rio Lisboa became a pioneer in providing these services, inspiring other event organizers to follow its lead. The 2024 edition, held for the first time at Parque Tejo, brought new challenges. From the first visit with Dora Palma, we knew this new venue would demand extra effort and creativity — but challenges only strengthen our resolve.
Building on our 2022 experience, we expanded the team, increased our fleet, and added new mobility aids — now also supporting people with temporary mobility limitations. Days before the event, we received a new Accessibility Hub, twice the size of the previous one, offering improved working conditions for our teams and users alike.
During the festival, we operated three adapted vehicles and provided a wide range of mobility aids — including electric and manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Participation exceeded expectations. The first weekend revealed the need for an additional accessible platform near the main stage, which we swiftly implemented to ensure better access for all.
We strengthened our resources and volunteer base to ensure no request went unanswered. The second weekend was unforgettable — especially June 22nd, when over a hundred wheelchair users attended. Accessibility worked flawlessly, and one of the most emotional moments was seeing 65 wheelchairs gathered on the main platform during Ivete Sangalo’s concert — a true image of inclusion.
The professionalism and dedication of everyone involved — TotalMobility, TSimetria, and the Rock in Rio Lisboa Sustainability and Accessibility team — were exceptional. Beyond numbers and statistics, what remains are the smiles, the gratitude, and the sense of shared accomplishment from those who experienced the festival without barriers.
This success was only possible because we approached it with love, rigor, and determination. That’s how I work — always striving for excellence and human impact in every project.
Thank you, Rock in Rio Lisboa, for this demanding yet beautiful experience!
See you soon,
Alberto Fernandes
Head of Marketing and Public Relations at TotalMobility