September, 2026.— The creative and technological studio Akkira announces the launch of Rafiel, a free emotional support app aimed at people facing the pain of loss and grief. The news comes accompanied by the release of “Chinelo de Prego,” an original short film conceived by Marcelo Fernandes, founder of the studio, in honor of his brother, Rafael, whose memory inspired the creation of the project.
Developed for Android, Rafiel was born with the purpose of offering a safe, accessible, and individual space for venting, writing, and reflecting. The app’s proposal is not to replace psychological care or the family support network, but rather to serve as additional support in moments when a person feels alone or finds it difficult to express what they feel.
“’Chinelo de Prego’ was born in a very visceral way. We used artificial intelligence not as an end, but as an artistic tool to give visual shape to a complex feeling like grief,” explains Marcelo.
The soundtrack is by the Expressão Ativa project, and the work also features the artistic collaboration of Letícia Kohanoski and Becker Color. “The Expressão Ativa track and the talent of Letícia and Becker were essential because this story has color and the sound of the periphery. Anyone who comes from the periphery knows the impact that music has on our development and in providing comfort during difficult moments,” he adds.
The app does not replace psychological care or the family support network. The proposal is to be additional support in moments when a person feels alone or cannot express what they feel. “Rafiel’s artificial intelligence was designed with care to be a safe channel for venting and listening, without judgment. We know that technology will never replace human affection or professional care, but it can be there at two in the morning, when the pain gets heavy and the person feels like they have nowhere to go,” says the founder.
The Rafiel app is now available for free download on the Google Play Store.
