About Edgar Alitto
Brazilian author and missionary. In Thailand since 2013.
Edgar Alitto is a Brazilian author and missionary who has lived in Thailand for more than a decade. His work is deeply connected to people, culture, faith, education and the stories he has encountered along the way across Southeast Asia.
Through books, photography and educational projects, he seeks to build bridges between worlds, giving visibility to people and cultures that are often little known outside the region. His books reflect his journey among communities in Thailand and Myanmar, combining personal experience, spirituality, culture and a deep interest in human stories.
Edgar also develops educational and social initiatives in northern Thailand, working with children, young people and local communities.
A life in mission
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2009
Full-time missions
In March 2009 Edgar gave himself fully to missions with YWAM (Youth With A Mission). In Brazil he led the Casa Lar ministry in Gravataí, Rio Grande do Sul, for four years — keeping children off the streets and restoring families.
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2010
Discipleship Training School
He completed YWAM’s DTS and went on to work with children and teenagers in education, counseling and discipleship.
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2013
Thailand
Edgar moved to Thailand, where about 95% of the population is Buddhist. From Chiang Mai he worked in audiovisual media, mobilization and the discipleship of vulnerable children and teenagers, in partnership with Create International.
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2021
Open Arms Community
He founded Open Arms Community: English classes in schools, temples and family homes, work among Karen, Kayan, Shan and Lahu villages, and a shelter for teenagers from hard backgrounds.
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2026
Five books
Light in the East, Luz no Oriente, Janelas and the Thailand coloring book in English and Portuguese were published in September 2026.
Open Arms Community
Open Arms Community began in Lamphun, northern Thailand, with English classes for young people and families. Today it serves local towns and tribal villages through education, discipleship and social support.
Open Arms is a community of Create International, a global ministry of YWAM.
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