1. Please give us a brief biography: where you were born, your journey to where you are today, and your connection to the Portuguese and Lusophone world.

I was born in Selma California. I currently live across the street from where I was born. My grandma use to say this as she was born at home at her grandparents and lived across the street. Mine was at the hospital but I do live across the street. My grandma had me involved in all 8 (when there were 8) Portuguese fraternal organizations  keeping the culture was very important to her. I have since moved forward and am a Past Grand President of SPRSI currently Vice President and  past President(2nd female following my grandma who was first) on the line for the Brotherhood of Saint Anthony .

2.     How did you get involved in the Luso-American Education Foundation, and what has been your trajectory in this organization?

When SPRSI and LUSO merged I was invited to attend a meeting of the LAEF. I found them welcoming, and appreciated their purpose. So I joined and the next year was in advisory board . After my presidency was over I joined the board VP of membership and when my terms expired have taken a minor roll of less involvement on the advisory board  

3.     What is your vision for LAEF? How do you see the organization’s relevance today compared to half a century ago?

 I would like to see Laef to continue to prosper and foster a future support to students. I would like to see the foundation continue their scholarships grants and summer camp.  Perhaps take lead on more things to promote activities within the Portuguese communities throughout the state. Much tends to stay in the Bay Area but the community as we know it is throughout the entire state. 

4.     What would you like to see as short and long-range goals for the organization? Are there any changes you would want to see come to fruition at LAEF?

I would like to see a greater partnership with PBBI I see PFSA is often a sponsor of events but LAEF should be as well. I would like to see more events held throughout the state. At one point they did social mixers I think those should come back. Maybe some involvement at FESTAS to promote the organization as well as what we can do. I know there are many students who want to do more within and for their Portuguese communities LAEF could be the bridge. 

           5. Can you briefly reflect and summarize your thoughts on the Portuguese and Lusophone Diasporas in California, considering that immigration, at least in significant numbers, ended over 40 years ago?   What challenges and opportunities do you see for our Portuguese and  Lusophone diasporas in California?

I think with social media we can bring together more the Portuguese communities. We can host virtual events like the education and cultural conference that brings everyone altogether. For immigrant week reach out to all the halls and have a flag raising same date and time via Facebook live we may be far apart but can be so close together at the same time. If we all support the same mission and goal of simply showing our Portuguese pride. 

Empowering Tomorrow is a segment of NOVIDADES by Bruma Publications from PBBI-Fresno State, featuring the directors of the Luso-American Education Foundation.