It has been with hard work, integrity and dedication that PFSA has served the community for over one hundred years, and it is an example of what being Portuguese Proud and honored to serve is all about.
PAMA was founded on the same principles, to serve our community as a voice and much more for the needs of Luso Americans, and their descendants,to spread our culture, our language and our "orgulho"Those who are proud of their heritage, but may have felt disconnected, perhaps because they no longer speak the language, or there may not be a medium to connect them.
We work hard every day to serve as their bridge. We have more than a team, we have a family that is dedicated to helping our community grow. It is an honor and a privilege to have this partnership with PFSA.
Júlia Machado is a young PortugueseAmerican singer born in August 2010 in New Jersey. Júlia became known to the public after her surprising victory on the prestigious stage of The Voice Kids Portugal, considered by many to be the biggest stage for young singers in Portugal.
Passion for Portugal
Despite living abroad, she loves her parents home country, Portugal, and visits her family every summer. Júlia is often found in Nazaré, a beach in central Portugal known for its giant waves, or in Monsanto do Ribatejo where she likes to take care of the sheep with her cousins.
Musicals
Although Júlia is very young, she already has some experience on stage. She began taking singing lessons at the age of 6 at Jersey Shore Music Academy, NJ after her parents realized she could sing. However, the first time she stepped onto a really big stage was at the Count Basie in Red Bank, NJ, where she was in the junior production of The Little Mermaid. Júlia had a very small role, but it was on that stage that she realized her passion for singing and acting. Matilda, The Musical was her next musical, followed by Disney's The Lion King, where she played Nala, one of the show's main female voices.
JULIA MACHADO
B u l l y i n g
.Júlia Machado spoke about her own experiences of bullying and her first single “Where I Belong” is interpreted as a ‘cry of solidarity’ with everyone who goes through a similar situation. Júlia believes that music can save people, just as it saved her. She wants to use her voice to help stop bullying and prevent other children from feeling alone.
WinnerofthevoicePortugal Determination
Determination is Júlia’s middle name! Since she was 6 years old, she has been begging her parents to be on The Voice. Because he was so young, his parents decided to wait a little longer. When they finally allowed her to participate, Júlia crossed the Atlantic and stayed with her maternal grandparents for 5 months to be able to participate in the TV program. She ended up finishing the school year at the same secondary school where his parents studied before leaving Portugal, more than 20 years ago.
Saved by Portuguese star Fernando Daniel during the battle rounds, Júlia became one of the youngest girls to win this singing competition at age 12 and the first Luso-American to accomplish something like this.
Performance/Song
Blind Auditions -Part of your world
Battles -Rolling in the deep Semifinal -Million Dreams
Final-Hello/Casa Duet with her mentor Fernando Daniel
JUNIOR EUROVISION Song Contest, France, November 2023
Júlia proudly carried the Portuguese flag in this competition The only thing she wanted was to make all Portuguese people proud by participating in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, November 2023. She was pleased to represent not only the Portuguese people living in Portugal, but also the Portuguese communities living abroad like her family and all those who left their homeland in search of a better life
Where I belong : Debut Single
1. 2. 3.
“Where I Belong," a heartfelt composition that carries a universal message of longing and belonging. Her music now serves as a powerful bridge between Portugal and the United States. This single resonates with the emotions of anyone who has experienced the ache of being separated from their true home, making it a touching anthem for the global Portuguese community ”
Roller Coaster- Second Single
“Rollercoaster” is Júlia’s second single and it shows once more the young singer's new talent. A fresh song with powerful lyrics where she talks about the ups and downs of people’s life, but most of all there is always hope for better days. And the solution is never to give up even when some days seem very dark.
Girl Next Door/Cosas Del Amor- Third Single
"Girl Next Door/Cosas Del Amor" is the latest single by Júlia Machado with Sandra Valero. This upbeat pop duet tells the story of young, unrequited love, where someone daydreams about a person who doesn’t even know they exist, and they’re too shy to confess their feelings. “Girl Next Door/Cosas Del Amor” is the third original song by the young star revealed by The Voice Kids Portugal in 2023, and follows “Rollercoaster” and “Where I Belong”. The latter is the song Júlia represented Portugal with at Junior Eurovision 2023 in Nice, where she met Sandra Valero, runnerup in the competition representing Spain and with whom Júlia shares this new song. Both young artists reunited at Junior Eurovision 2024 in Madrid, where Júlia Machado will be Portugal's spokesperson in awarding the jury's points.
Short term projects
Júlia Machado will return to Junior Eurovision 2024 in Madrid, as Portugal's spokesperson. She will perform as a guest at Meo Arena December 17th, where she joins other Portuguese artists for the prestigious concert of 100 Voices of Gospel.
EVENTS WHERE JULIA PERFORMED
BOSTON PORTUGAL DAY, 2024
UNITED NATIONS, NEW YORK, UNITED NATIONS, 50 YEARS OF 25 OF APRIL, 2024
TIMES SQUARE, THE FANTASTIC WORLD OF THE PORTUGUESE SARDINE, 2024
NEWARK PORTUGAL DAY, 2024 WDC, PORTUGUESE EMBASSY, 2025
PAMA PULSE MUSIC SPOTLIGHT
Musicans of our community
Music has the ability to bring people from different backgrounds together and create a sense of unity and understanding
LUSO CANADIAN
DOWNLOAD THE PAMA APP TO HEAR JCT AND MANY MORE!
Luso Canadian artist JCT was born Joe Carlos Terceira on April 07, 1982 in Toronto, Canada to Portuguese parents from the beautiful island of São Miguel, Azores. The oldest son to Jose & Cidalia Terceira with 3 other siblings, JCT is an incredible artist, music producer and serial entrepreneur who has a passion for the creative arts and business. He’s also the President & CEO of an up-and-coming record label he founded called THESEUS
MUSIC GROUP which operates as a division of it’s parent company THESEUS
ENTERTAINMENT LTD based out of Oakville, Canada.
JCT began his musical career at the early age of only 9 years old when his parents enrolled him at a music school at the Galleria mall in Toronto in the early 1990’s. As a child he always had an ear for music and would often record songs using only a tape recorder, empty pails, and whatever he could find aroundthe house to mimic instruments which formed the basis of his early productions with help from his siblings. His instrument of choice to study was the accordion as he fell in love with it after being exposed to it by his grandfather.
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His father Jose instantly realized he had a knack for it and became his biggest supporter always making time to take him to school every weekend. When asked about his love for the accordion, he had this to say. “When I was younger, I never realised how learning to play the accordion would open doors for me on the production side... I remember my teacher John always saying to me that once I learned the accordion everything else would follow as the accordion isn’t the easiest instrument to learn and usually because of its power and harmonic lead, it normally creates the tempo for most songs when it’s used... Once I started to get good at it, my mind just started to flow with ideas. So now even though I haven’t been active with it for many years, I still use many of those things I learned in my early years its like riding a bike you never forget, and those times are something I will forever be grateful for”.
Within less then a year in school, he boarded a plane for São Miguel to perform in a local festival commonly known to the locals as the Despensas or bailinhos in the town of Rabo De Peixe which attracts thousands of tourists every year. RDP which he likes to call it is also currently gaining notoriety for the hit show TURN OF THE TIDE on NETFLIX which he’s also a big fan of. After returning back to Toronto, he spent a total of 3 years in music school learning theory and musical structure which now serves him in his productions. Throughout his early teen years, JCT performed at many venues, banquet halls and local Portuguese establishments as a lead accordion player, and practicing with local wellknown bands.
When he was 16, he started to dabble in music production creating his first beats many of which he claims are still in his unreleased catalogue. A self-taught producer, he found a new love of being in the studio and expressing his creativity through music implementing everything he had learned in his early career and training. Finally, around the age of 19 he decided it was time to take time off to pursue some business ventures he had embarked on including his first record company JSI Records he founded in his early 20’s.
Within a few months he independently released a 4 track Portuguese Cd of desgarradas into the islands of Sao Miguel with the help of family members who had gone to Canada to visit. Only 100 copies were made and they were given out for free to friends and family only. But his other business ventures started to take up most of his time so he lost interest in music and within a few years JSI Records had closed. But that was only temporary. After a 10-year hiatus from music, he burst back onto the scene in 2018 and 2019 with his new singles Celebrity & I’m Feeling Fine along with music videos for both which were released under his newly formed record company THESEUS MUSIC GROUP which was also a sponsor of the International Portuguese Music Awards in the year 2018.
From there it has been a steady barrage of releases with over 20 singles, 11 music videos, millions of views and streams, and listeners in over 50+ countries and counting. Not only does he produce almost all of his music but videos as well with filming taking place so far in Canada, USA, Bahamas, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Cabo San Lucas, and more... And he isn’t slowing down as according to him there’s more on the way. His biggest song to date PORTUGAL FORCA is a ballad he produced dedicated to the Portuguese Seleção during the 2022 World Cup which has already amassed over 500,000 views on YouTube and looks promising of someday achieving GOLD or dare we say PLATINUM level status which would be a monumental accomplishment for any Portuguese artist.
You will often find him blending the English, Portuguese and the Spanish languages in a unique way to create some really creative music our community has never seen. It’s become clear that the Portuguese community in North America has a talented up and coming star with unique music, videos and flair for originality that makes him stand out.
You can find all of JCT’s music on all major digital platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more and also follow him on social media sites Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and more under his username @jctofficial7. For collaborations and show bookings, you can contact his management team on his website at: www.jctofficial.com
Congratulations to JCT and best wishes on his continued success!
Jessica DeMelo
WALT DISNEY WORLD, FLORIDA
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
MADE IN CALIFORNIA SLODEVIE
PFSA A n d
DAIANESBOOKREVIEW
THINGS WE DO IN THE DARK
BY: JENNIFER HILLIER
Here's some things you should know:
- murder mystery - trauma! child abuse, neglect, and assault
- it can get pretty heavy - different POV
Quick Thoughts:
Summary:
This one kept me entertained and on my toes. Some parts are a little heavy, but it is a thriller read, after all. The ending did feel a little bit rushed. The beginning felt like a long bit of backstory, but once it all tied in, it made sense. 3 mysteries that all tie in together, and the twists were a little bit predictable, so while it was entertaining, it did lack the huge element of surprise for me :)
"Things We Do in the Dark is a brilliant new thriller from Jennifer Hillier, the awardwinning author of the breakout novels Little Secrets and Jar of Hearts. Paris Peralta is suspected of killing her celebrity husband, and her long-hidden past now threatens to destroy her future. When Paris Peralta is arrested in her own bathroom covered in blood, holding a straight razor, her celebrity husband dead in the bathtub behind her she knows she'll be charged with murder. But as bad as this looks, it's not what worries her the most. With the unwanted media attention now surrounding her, it's only a matter of time before someone from her long hidden past recognizes her and destroys the new life she's worked so hard to build, along with any chance of a future. Twenty-five years earlier, Ruby Reyes, known as the Ice Queen, was convicted of a similar murder in a trial that riveted Canada in the early nineties. Reyes knows who Paris really is, and when she's unexpectedly released from prison, she threatens to expose all of Paris's secrets. Left with no other choice, Paris must finally confront the dark past she escaped, once and for all."
*If you have any favorite thrillers, share them with me! 'Tis the season! Happy Reading!
Earlier this year, PALCUS launched its new signature event - Heritage Portugal, inviting a group of 12 Luso-Americans to participate in a cultural enrichment program throughout the mainland and Azores. This immersion focused on creating connection points to the nation’s past, present, and future - highlighting the most unique elements of Portuguese culture, discussing the country’s current sociopolitical contexts, and helping them find their roles in the society of tomorrow.
Drafted and developed by the cohort themselves, the now-available 2024 Heritage Portugal Program ($35, hardcover) gives readers a peek into the day-to-day of the program and insights into the minds of the participants Across these chapters, individuals will be able to understand more about the cohort’s individual stories, insights and reflections by PALCUS leadership, and the impact of a new commitment toward Portuguese cultural investment.
Help support PALCUS and future cohorts of the Heritage Portugal program by snagging a copy today!
More Life
By:DevinMeireles
“Eu quero ir para casa,” Avó said.
She was befuddled at her new surroundings, laying there feebly as the group of us huddled around the bed.
How did this happen all of a sudden?
I thought to myself—just last month she tried to make me some favas before dropping the hot pan on the ceramic floor. My Tia swooped in for the save and finished what she started but I thought nothing of it. Accidents happen. Thank goodness there was no fire!
She was getting old at that time, and it was really starting to show, however she had been living on her own ever since Vovô passed away. I had always known her to be self sufficient and capable until that moment at the hospital. Things would never be the same. They told us that she suffered a minor stroke. The doctors wouldn’t discharge her without a home care plan. Somebody needed to look after her from there on out. Otherwise if nobody could take that on, they advised that the best course was to find her a long term care home. The thought of it never occurred to anybody in the family, supposing that she would live forever. It was a difficult conversation to be had. Nor did she ever make advanced care planning arrangements. Alas, the group faced some tough decisions while Avó was deteriorating. She was increasingly senile as the days went on.
I realized her condition was worsening when I paid a visit after school one day. “Who are you?” She asked me. “Avó, it’s me, your grandson.”
“Eu quero ir para casa.”
Woman Lying on Bed / Sketch
Fashion collection / January 2030
Guy wearing Bonnet Hat/ Sketch
Fashion collection / January 2030
Looking at me as if I was a stranger, she repeated herself like a broken record. That’s what she told everyone, but when I suggested that we have some turkey with gravy for Thanksgiving she dismissed the idea in favor of the apple sauce at the hospital. Swiftly forgetting what she just asked for. She knew that home was no longer an option but it wouldn’t be long before she brought it up again.
She was completely dependent on the hospital staff. The Portuguese housekeeper was a huge relief to translate for the nurses. My Tia and Tios helped as much as they could while my father visited everyday. I often tagged along while my mother stayed home with my younger siblings. There were times that recovery looked promising but then the next day could go back to square one. It was clear that she wasn’t going to be back on her feet.
With the help of the social worker, they guided the family through the decision-making process. All affairs were arranged with careful consideration. The Spiritual Care Department at the hospital was very compassionate and caring, offering counsel every step of the way. They assisted in finding a good home that was central and accessible in the city. Luckily, there was no waitlist and Avó was transferred within the week.
Her introduction to the residence was exceptional. The caregivers assigned to her unit made an impression in a short time. They were patient-centered and truly understanding. She warmed up to them, albeit asking to go home frequently.
“Eu quero ir para casa.”
Those words became a catchphrase of hers. I pictured her busting out of there like that scene from ‘One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest” but in her weakened state that was impossible. The staff learned some Portuguese along the way as they looked after her with some first-class attention. Never once did they taunt her or get frustrated. They were always empathetic. “I know, Senhora, you’re not home but this place is nice too!” the staff member said. Avó was unresistant to their wardship. They took great care of her, preserving her dignity with tact. Their support was truly remarkable. So much so, that her condition got a little better over the following months. Her cognition improved and she no longer questioned who I was when visiting, even conversing with me about the good times. It was nice to recognize some of the old aspects of her personality. She was in good spirits and seemed to enjoy it there.
For the family, it was godsend to have that tender loving care. Otherwise I doubt that she could have lived another decade like she did. With all the affairs in order, her last years retained a good quality of life. It couldn’t get any better. We had peace of mind and were able to focus on creating new memories. The residence became an extension of the family. We gathered for milestones and celebrations just like before. She didn’t miss anything. Remarkably, there was one year when she was doing well enough to get a day pass and actually spent Christmas at our house. I’ll never forget it. In the company of her loved ones and the familiar taste of ‘back home’, traditional Portuguese cuisine for the occasion, we marked the holiday like no other. The joy in her eyes lit up as we sang carols together while visuals of ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ played on the television. She didn’t ask to go home that evening. She was right where she needed to be. All of us were happy to be with her.
I gave her a big hug and sat by her side for dinner. Having her at the table was one of those moments that will forever live in my heart. A part of me couldn’t believe it, as if I was next to an apparition, but it was undeniably real. Pictures on my cell phone were living proof. Sometimes I reminisce in the photo album to appreciate how lucky we were.
That could not have been possible without the help of our extended family the long term care home. Their infallible work was the greatest gift to make more life possible. Of all the angels within our inner circle, their staff were the most heavenly and I will always respect what they had done for us. It’s times like that we need to remember what we live for and those around us that made a difference. While we carry on with each day, like any other, the course of events as they happen could impact the future. We make history everyday. Our memory’s sake depends on the living but it’s mostly important to appreciate those times while we are here. More life, mais vida, is the greatest gift.
THEPORTUGUESEKIDS MIKERITA TAYLORAMARANTE
YAPS YoungAdult Portuguese Society
Global Impact:
Roots and Growth:
YAPS, the Young Adult Portuguese Society, is more than an organization; it’s a cultural epic. Founded in 2008 in Johannesburg, South Africa, its a captivating story of friendship, dedication, and passion for Lusophone culture.
From humble beginnings of 11 family friends wanting to celebrate their Portuguese heritage, YAPS has become a cultural beacon spreading Portuguese influence globally. Its mission, to promote intercultural understanding, has transcended physical and linguistic barriers. Through events, traditions, and educational programs, it fosters a vibrant Portuguese community with a 15 executive member board of youth from various backgrounds and professions, over 10,000 followers on social media, and over 250 paid subscribing members. The society adapts continuously, staying relevant in an ever-changing world.
PILLARS OF YAPS:
Educational Adventures:
- YAPS offers excellent Portuguese classes, taking learning to new heights through Zoom conferences.
- The Youth Leadership Summit, “Juízo na Cabeça”, shapes future leaders through professional and personal development.
Charitable Seas:
-YAPS navigates charity seas with fundraising events and an annual soccer tournament, supporting communities in need.
Social Waves:
-YAPS social events are lively festivals, blending Portuguese traditions with a Mediterranean flair.
-YAPS supports young entrepreneurship through strategic partnerships in providing an incubator for young entrepreneurs to sell products and services at various Portuguese Festivals based in Gauteng, South Africa. Thereby driving both culture and the local economy.
Navigating with Allies:
-YAPS collaborates with groups throughout South Africa, expanding cultural ties through partnerships with chambers of commerce in Portugal, South Africa and Hong Kong by providing networking opportunities such as our members serving as board members and shadow board members in these institutions or free access to member events.
JOIN THE YAPS ODYSSEY:
To be part of this cultural journey, connect with YAPS on social media or visit wwwyapscoza Every contribution propels YAPS towards a future where Portuguese heritage is not just preserved but celebrated
YAPSSTATS
15 Executive member led board of directors
4 Special founding members
Over 10,000 followers on social media
Over 250 paid subscribers
All members are automatically youth members of the South African Portuguese Chamber of Commerce (SAPCC) allowing access to all member events for free YAPS actively engages in organizing community events nationwide through online communication
Acknowledgments
We have deep gratitude to our supporters, especially the South African Portuguese Chamber of Commerce (SAPCC), the Portuguese Forum of South Africa, the Academia do Bacalhau, the Hong Kong South Africa Chamber of Commerce that are all based in South Africa and more recently CCILSA (Chamber of Commerce; Industry Luso South-African) that is based in Portugal, YAPS UK based in Birmingham, UK and CCINP - Chamber of Commerce and Industry based in Netherlands.
Together, we build a vibrant future for Portuguese youth both in Portugal and South Africa
Companheirismo – Companionship
Peru – Turkey
Molho de carne – Gravy
Purê de batata – Mashed potatoes
Torta de abóbora – Pumpkin pie
Batata-doce – Sweet potato
Recheio – Stuffing
Molho de cranberry – Cranberry sauce
Pão de milho – Cornbread
Torta de maçã – Apple pie
Torta de noz-pecã – Pecan pie
Agradecimento – Gratitude
Gratidão – Gratefulness
Obrigado/Obrigada - Thank you
Reconhecimento – Appreciation
Ação de graças – Thanksgiving
Bênção – Blessing
Generosidade – Generosity
Família – Family
Amizade – Friendship
Celebração – Celebration
Partilha – Sharing
União – Unity
By: Vanessa Medeiros
BEACH CLEAN UP WITH PFSA
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