Born in Xai Xai City in southern Mozambique, Stélia graduated with a degree in Political History and Public Management from Pedagogical University in Inhambane. She has worked at the UTOMI Association as a research assistant in Inhambane Province, conducting surveys with groups of Xitiques, AMETRAMO (Associação dos Médicos Tradicionais de Moçambique), peasants' associations and others. She has also been active in community health issues with Geração BIZ (PGB), assisting in HIV-related lectures, educational theater and counseling.