Laísa Lima, the tamborin director for the Beija-Flor samba school and the first female drum master to lead a group in Rio's Intendente Magalhães Carnival, expresses her hope for increased opportunities for women in the event, especially within the Special Group. As the granddaughter of a renowned figure in the samba community, Laísa's experiences leading a drum group highlight both the challenges and the supportive network she found at Arranco do Engenho de Dentro. The community's acceptance of her role signals a positive change toward more inclusive leadership in Carnival festivities.

Despite the struggles she faced, Laísa advocates for samba school leaders and directors to provide more opportunities to women, stating that all that's needed is a chance to demonstrate their talent. Currently, she is the only female director within Beija-Flor's drumming section, a role she has held for ten years. Laísa's journey not only underscores the ongoing gender disparities in Carnival but also emphasizes the potential for reform if women's contributions are recognized and valued.

As more voices like Laísa's emerge within the samba community, there may be a shift in the cultural perception of women in leadership roles. Her call for representation resonates with wider calls for equality in diverse sectors, suggesting that the movement for women's representation in Carnival could inspire broader societal changes as well. This appeal for change within the samba culture points to a growing acknowledgment of the vital role women play in shaping and enriching this traditional Brazilian festival.