The President of the Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region of the Azores (ALRAA), Luís Garcia, argued that the young people of the Azores are “true catalysts for innovation,” a dynamism that is reflected “both through the modernization of traditional activities and by exploring new frontiers of knowledge through science.”
“The future of the Azores is built on the talent of our young people, who balance the appreciation of traditions with an innovative and entrepreneurial vision. It is this diversity of paths – from agriculture to new technologies, from craft production to sustainable tourism – that guarantees a more competitive region,” said the President of the Legislative Assembly at the fourth meeting of the ‘Azores with a Future – Young People who Inspire’ tour, held this morning in Ribeira Grande.
Highlighting examples from São Miguel and Ribeira Grande, the President of the Azorean Parliament stressed that from the ‘Frutaria Miguel Estrela,’ which “honors traditional agriculture,” to the ‘O Chocolatinho’ chocolate factory, which “combines ancient knowledge with a modern market,” to the ‘Eco Surfing Azores’ Surf School, which “promotes environmental awareness,” and the work of biologist Rafael Martins, whose dolphin detection app is “an example of scientific innovation”, the young people from São Miguel show that “tradition and innovation are not opposites, but complementary”, he concludes.
“Preserving our roots doesn’t mean stagnating, but innovating what defines us. If we want sustainable development, we have to support those who work the land and sea with new techniques, but also those who explore new opportunities in the science and technology sectors,” said the President of the Legislative Assembly.
Addressing an audience of around 200 secondary and vocational school students, President Luís Garcia appealed to young people: “Don’t be afraid to challenge the established, but never forget where you come from. The success of the Azores depends on each of you, your courage to preserve, and your boldness to reinvent.”
The “Azores with a Future” roadmap reaffirms President Luís Garcia’s commitment to bringing the Azorean Parliament closer to all the islands, promoting dialogue with young people, and encouraging their active participation in building innovative and sustainable solutions for the region.

In Diário dos Açores-Osvaldo Cabral, director

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.