South American optics research has seen remarkable growth over the past 50 years, with significant contributions in areas such as quantum optics, holography, spectroscopy, nonlinear optics, statistical optics, nanophotonics and integrated photonics. The research has driven economic development in sectors like telecom, biophotonics, biometrics, and agri-sensing. This joint feature issue between JOSA A and JOSA B exhibits cutting-edge optics research from the region, fostering a sense of community and promoting collaboration among researchers.