Tavares was deeply immersed in the vibrant tapestry of Portuguese culture. Growing up surrounded by the
language at home, she acquired the ability to understand and speak
Portuguese through her
parents and grandparents.
From an early age, Liliana Tavares was deeply immersed in the vibrant tapestry of Portuguese culture. Growing up surrounded by the language at home, she acquired the ability to understand and speak Portuguese through her parents and grandparents.
LILIANA ABOUT ABOUT THE THE COVER
This not only equipped her with linguistic skills but also instilled a profound appreciation for the values
and traditions embedded in her heritage. Engaging in festas, listening to family stories, and celebrating Portuguese customs became second nature—a living legacy handed down through generations.
This not only equipped her with linguistic skills but also instilled a profound appreciation for the values and traditions embedded her heritage. Engaging festas, listening to family stories, and celebrating Portuguese customs became second nature a living legacy handed down through generations.
T A V A R E S risin’MPhotography
PHOTO CREDIT BY: PHOTO CREDIT BY:
Celebrating Heritage: The Journey of Liliana Tavares
At the tender age of three, Liliana embarked on her journey with the Luso-American Education Foundation as a youth member of Council #25. Over the years, she held various leadership positions treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president where she played a pivotal role in coordinating performances, organizing youth events, and managing fundraisers. Her dedication and leadership have earned her respect and admiration among her peers.
Liliana has also been actively involved in her local Portuguese hall, IPFES, serving as senior queen, volunteering for community dinners, and attending monthly meetings. Through her efforts, she has consistently fostered unity and cultural pride within her community
To further deepen her connection to the language and culture, she completed a professional Portuguese language course, solidifying her fluency and understanding of her Portuguese-American identity. Liliana Tavares is a shining example of how the next generation continues to embrace, preserve, and celebrate Portuguese heritage in the United States keeping the language, traditions, and love for Portugal alive.”
From The Editor
My name is Silvia , and my passion has always been to celebrate and uplift our Portuguese community. As the host of The Portuguese Collective Podcast, I’ve made it my mission to create a space where Portuguese creators, entrepreneurs, and cultural influencers can share their journeys highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Our stories matter, and I believe in preserving our culture in a way that makes younger generations feel connected, inspired, and proud.
This Magazine is an English-language publication created by us, for us a safe place where the children of immigrants can shine without ever feeling like they aren’t “Portuguese enough” to celebrate their roots. This platform is about recognizing those who work tirelessly to keep our Portuguese communities alive across the United States and Canada. Every article, feature, and story is brought to you by the journalists, writers, and creators within our own community, and we encourage you to support them in every way possible. Whether it’s following them on social media, engaging with their work, or simply letting them know you appreciate their efforts, your support makes a difference. These creators are doing incredible work to keep our traditions alive, and together, we can ensure that our culture not only survives but thrives for generations to come.
-Silvia Manuela
MARCIA OLIVEIRA
MARCIA DEOLIVEIRA IS A SURGICALTECHNOLOGIST, SMALL BUSINESS OWNER, AND PROUD PORTUGUESE-AMERICAN. SHE WAS BORN IN THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF BRAGA, PORTUGAL, AND MOVEDTO NEWYORK WHEN SHE WAS13. THIS JOURNEY, TRANSITIONING FROM ONE CULTURE TO ANOTHER, HAS SIGNIFICANTLY INFLUENCED WHO SHE IS AND WHATSHE'S PASSIONATE ABOUT.
ALTHOUGH SHE HAS SPENTYEARS WORKING IN THE MEDICAL FIELD, HERTRUE PASSION RESIDES IN THE KITCHEN. MARCIA HAS ALWAYS CHERISHEDTHE COMFORTING, NOSTALGIC FLAVORS OF PORTUGUESE CUISINE, ESPECIALLY PASTEIS DE NATA, THE ICONIC CUSTARDTARTS SHE GREW UP WITH. THIS LOVE INSPIRED HERTO START HER OWN BUSINESS BYCREATING A PASTEIS DE NATA BAKING KITTHAT BRINGSTHISTRADITIONAL DESSERT INTO MODERN HOMES.
Her goal is simple: to make it easy for everyone to bake fresh, authentic pastéis de nata, requiring no pastry chef experience.
It's more than just a treat; it's a way to share some sweet memories of one's own.
Outside of work, she is a wife and mom to two wonderful young boys who keep her grounded and inspired every day.
Balancing family life, healthcare, and a growing business isn't always easy, but it's a journey she is incredibly grateful for.
A STORY OF TWO FRIENDS WHO CAME TOGETHER WITH THE AIM OF BRINGING A NEW PERSPECTIVE TO PORTUGUESE FESTIVALS, COMMUNITY, AND CULTURE!
FBRIANLORES BRIAN FLORES
A ve A ve A ve
TAYLOR AMARANTE TAYLOR AMARANTE
The idea for Battle Of The Bifanas originated during a flight from Boston to the Bay Area after enjoying an exceptional bifana in Fall River. As a stand-up comedian who has tasted many bifanas across the U.S., Canada, and Portugal, I realized each town boasts its unique take on this beloved sandwich, leading to lively debates about whose recipe is the best. To settle this, I envisioned an open competition to find the ultimate bifana. Collaborating with my friend Brian Flores, we aimed to create a cultural event focused on our community's culinary heritage, offering delicious food, vendors, and entertainment. After months of planning, Battle Of The Bifanas was born, and we look forward to hosting a memorable experience for our community.
mily ’ s her. This nd pop - up ndemic , in local B B Q op - five special love as . These ons , each Porto - style ion of and piri piri onal flavor. o celebrate tering and culture . mily’s her. This nd pop-up ndemic, in local BBQ op-five as. These ons, each Porto-style ion of and piri piri onal o celebrate tering and culture.
2PM GATESOPEN
4PM OPENINGCEREMONIES
4:15PM DJB-MO
4:45PM
MARBRAVOFOLKLORE PERFORMANCE
“THEBIGCHAM
ARROZDOCEE CONTEST 30PM
Rancho DE NORWOOD
Founded in 1985, the Rancho Folclórico do Alto Minho of Norwood, Massachusetts, is a vibrant Portuguese folk dance group dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich cultural traditions of the Alto Minho region of northern Portugal, specifically Arcos de Valdevez and Viana do Castelo. The group was established by Diamantino Cerqueira, Alfredo Rodrigues, and Antonio Barreira. They shared vision and commitment to heritage and laid the foundation for decades of cultural celebration and education.
For over 35 years, the rancho has brought the spirit of Portugal to life through colorful costumes, authentic music, traditional dances, and community engagement. The group performs at festivals, cultural events, and celebrations across New England and beyond, fostering pride among Portuguese-Americans and building cultural bridges with audiences of all backgrounds. With each performance, the Rancho Folclórico do Alto Minho honors its founders’ legacy while nurturing a new generation of dancers, musicians, and cultural ambassadors.
NORWOOD MASS. @ranchodenorwood
MUSIC MUSIC
CONCERTINAS DO NORte
MILFORD, MASSACHUSETTS
Concertinas do Norte was founded in 2019 by siblings Chris and Brianna Ferreira, along with their close friend Tiago Moutinho. Based in Milford, Massachusetts, the trio shares strong Portuguese roots. Tiago is a firstgeneration Portuguese-American from Montalegre, while Chris and Brianna are second-generation, with family roots tracing to Arcos de Valdevez on their mother’s side and Boticas on their father’s. United by a deep passion for Portuguese folk traditions, the trio formed Concertinas do Norte to preserve and share the vibrant cultural heritage of northern Portugal.
Specializing in the soulful sounds of the concertina, their performances are infused with spirited vocals and lively rhythms that transport audiences to the heart of Portugal. Whether playing at community festivals, cultural events, or private celebrations, Concertinas do Norte brings authenticity, joy, and nostalgia to every stage. For this trio, the music is more than performance, it's a tribute to their ancestors, a celebration of identity, and a promise to keep tradition alive for future generations
Concertinas do norte
Special guests Special guests
Jessica DeMelo
WALT DISNEY WORLD, FLORIDA
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
CASTAWAY CAY
FROM BRAGA, PORTUGAL
orn in Lisbon, Wilson played youth football for Sporting CP in the city. He was an unused substitute for the reserves in the Segunda Liga on 4 May 2014, in a 1–1 home draw against S.L. Benfica B.
On 3 January 2016, Wilson signed a two-year deal at S.C. Braga, being assigned to their second team of the same level. He made his league debut on 13 February, playing the full 90 minutes of a 1–0 loss at C.D. Mafra. He totalled 17 appearances over the season, being sent off in a 2–0 home defeat to S.C. Covilhã on 27 February and scoring in a 3–2 loss at Vitória S.C. B on 17 April.
Wilson was called up to the first team by coach José Peseiro in place of the injured Lazar Rosić for a Primeira Liga game at home to F.C. Paços de Ferreira on 11 December 2016. He played the full 90 minutes of a 3–0 win
#FORCAQUAKES #FORCAQUAKES #FORCAQUAKES
In June 2019, Wilson signed a threeyear contract with C.D. Tondela, with Braga retaining 50% of the player's rights. He scored his first top-flight goal on 3 November, the only one late on in a home game against former club Sporting. Wilson returned to the Estádio Municipal de Braga on 31 January 2020, agreeing to a three-year deal with an option for three additional seasons. He scored his first competitive goal against Vitória F.C. on 23 February, in a 3–1 home victory.
On 30 August 2020, Wilson was loaned for a year to CD Tenerife of Spain's Segunda División. He made 21 total appearances for the team from the Canary Islands, and scored to open a 2–0 home win over Girona FC on 21 December.
On 22 June 2021, Wilson joined newly-promoted F.C. Vizela on a three-year contract. During his spell, always spent in the main division, he played 68 games in all competitions and scored three goals.
On 8 February 2024, Wilson signed a two-year deal with Major League Soccer side San Jose Earthquakes.[17] He scored his first goal on 30 March, in the first minute of an eventual 2–1 loss at Houston Dynamo FC. Wilson's grandfather, Mário, was also a footballer and later a manager of clubs including S.L. Benfica, and the Portugal national team. Through him, he had American and Mozambican heritage. We hope to see you all on Portuguese Heritage Night not only to cheer on the Earthquakes but to support “our guy” Bruno Wilson.
CARREGA BRUNO!
News | For Immediate Release August 11, 2025
Nossa Senhora do Monte Festival Celebrates its 50th Anniversary in Woburn, MA This Weekend
The Portuguese-American Recreation Club (PARC) of Woburn, Massachusetts, is excited to celebrate its 50th anniversary of Nossa Senhora do Monte (Our Lady of the Mountain) festival this coming weekend, Friday, August 15 – Sunday, August 17, 2025 at the Portuguese-American Recreation Club at 83 Main Street, in Woburn’s South End neighborhood. Limited parking will be available. The Portuguese-American Recreation Club of Woburn and the organizing committee of the Our Lady of the Mount festival invite the residents of Woburn and surrounding communities and members of the Portuguese-American community of the region to join them in celebrating this milestone occasion.
The festival is free and open to the public The organizing committee welcomes residents of Woburn, as well as members of the Portuguese-American community of the region and beyond, to join in as they celebrate the customs and culture of Portugal, and the island of Madeira, where Our Lady of the Mountain is celebrated on August 15 in the village of Monte in Funchal, Madeira The celebration commemorates the Assumption of Mary at the sanctuary located in Monte, Funchal, Madeira Many of the Portuguese-American residents of the City of Woburn have connections to this region
The organizing committee is excited about the milestone anniversary of the festival. Rosemary Camacho-de Sousa, one of the organizers, says, “Reaching our 50th anniversary is incredibly moving. Looking back at five decades of shared traditions, laughter, and delicious food fills us with such pride, nostalgia, and saudade. We're not just celebrating the past, but eagerly looking forward to another 50 years of fostering our vibrant community and sharing our rich Portuguese culture with generations to come.”
The event will feature Portuguese and American food and drinks, including Madeiran specialities, like Madeira wine and grill-your-own Espetada à Madeirense at the fire pit (Madeiran-style grilled beef kebabs), one of the feast’s most beloved traditions); musical entertainment, and a religious program The festival will be open on Friday, August 15 at 5:30 PM with the recitation of the rosary and feature entertainment by Voz de Portugal through to 11 PM; Saturday opens at 6 PM with musical highlight Band Faith Sunday’s festivities will kick off at an earlier time, 5 PM, and will feature the band Os Capitalistas Additionally, bazaar games and children’s activities will be on hand This family-friendly event will have something for all ages
Photos of the festa throughout the years will be on display for all to see The organizing committee also encourages visitors to share any footage using the hashtags #NSdM50 and #WoburnFeast50 and tagging its social media accounts (@PARCWoburn on Instagram and PARCWoburnMA on Facebook)
For more information or to learn about sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, please contact us through PARC’s social media channels
The Portuguese-American Recreation Club of Woburn, Massachusetts, was founded in 1947 by Portuguese immigrants in Woburn as a way to foster community, celebrate culture, and continue traditions
THANKYOU,CLYDE Clyde Aikau, the Hawaiian legend
By: Anthony Esteves
Clyde Aikau, the Hawaiian legend and younger brother of iconic surfer, lifeguard, and Hōkūle’a crew member Eddie Aikau, has passed away He was 75
I learned of the news on Instagram through his son Ha’a’s account I had been following him for several months, as I was one of many infatuated with the Aikau legacy Witnessing the news was a strike through the heart. While Clyde had been battling cancer for quite some time, the news still sent a shockwave through me, which could be odd because the Aikaus and I do not know each other
I did not know Clyde personally I never experienced the honor and privilege of being in his presence I wish I could have,
My only trip to those beautiful islands in the Pacific was during my honeymoon in Maui in 2009 Maui was the original home of the Aikaus until they moved to O’ahu in the 1950s However, at this time, I was too ignorant of Hawaiian culture to be considered worthy of his time That was not something told to me It is something I know now, looking back “Pukiki”—theterm
Hawaiiansusedfor peopleof Portugueseheritage
Before the trip, Hawai’i was only a few things in my mind: a filming location for a few of my favorite motion pictures (like Jurassic Park and Forgetting Sarah Marshall), the location where my idol Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson grew up, and a paradise of the utmost beauty
It was on this 2009 trip that my brain began to comprehend the importance of those islands It was where my journey through the history of Hawai’i and its people began
Immediately after our return, I began educating myself on Hawaiian history and other Polynesian cultures I learned of words like āina, mana, and kanaka I even learned of my status as a “Pukiki” the term Hawaiians used for people of Portuguese heritage I have yet to know if there is a specific one for Azoreans, so until then, I will gladly wear the “Pukiki” title
Eddie Aikau (Eddie Aikau Foundation)
I learned of the arrival of Captain Cook and then his bloody Valentine's Day execution, King Kamehameha’s uniting of the islands, and creating the Kingdom of Hawai’i Its partnerships with the United Kingdom and other nations. Granting land and work to immigrants, including Portuguese, on the islands Then, I learned of the greedy haole industrialists who sunk their claws into the āina, fueling a Bayonet Constitution that stole the power from the Hawaiian people The missionaries who prohibited the Hawaiian language and culture in an attempt to erase it Queen Liliuokalani’s final attempts to save her kingdom only to see it ripped from her by the United States and turned into a territory and eventually a state.
Learning the TRUE history of Hawai’i made me a better student of world history and the United States. However, I had yet to stumble upon the Aikau family. In 2013, that would change.
One night, scrolling through channels, I landed on ESPN just as a new installment of their 30 for 30 sports documentaries was starting Curious what epic hybrid adventure of sports and cinema the ESPN was about to take me on, I set the remote down The title of this particular documentary was Hawaiian: The Legend of Eddie Aikau, directed by acclaimed surfing filmmaker Sam George and produced & narrated by Academy Award nominee Josh Brolin.
I was in awe of the life of this Hawaiian hero The story of a descendant of Hawaiian royalty devoted not only to an athletic art form, but also to the perseverance of his culture. The life of the first lifeguard ever assigned to the North Shore of O’ahu A lifeguard who not only made over 500 saves, but never lost a single soul on his watch A fearless wave rider who mastered the massive, 30-plus-foot waves of Waimea Bay and claimed the top prize at the prestigious Duke surfing competition A crew member of the Hōkūle’a who made the ultimate sacrifice doing what he did best: saving his people
continued Anthony Esteves
I was mesmerized, heartbroken, and greatly inspired by the life of Eddie Aikau This documentary had a grip on my mind and heart. Hearing the tale told by Brolin and the Aikau family, primarily by his younger brother Clyde, was an eye-opening, personal one about this young man and his devotion to his culture I became so infatuated with this story that I purchased the film to experience it again whenever I desired With every viewing, the same thought filled my mind:
How has the true story of Eddie Aikau not been made into a motion picture?
This thought would stick in my mind for years Having scribbled random stories as a kid for fun, I decided to chase the art of screenwriting I wrote episodes and pilots for original ideas, all while the life of Eddie Aikau occupied a significant spot in my mind. Eventually, a copy of Eddie Would Go: The Story of Eddie Aikau, Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing by Stuart Coleman ended up in my possession Taking notes as I read, I gained a new insight into this amazing life story I also learned more about Clyde
From the first college graduate in the family to winning The Duke before Eddie, my knowledge of Clyde increased Moreover, the bond between Eddie and Clyde was undeniable A strong brotherhood that was unbreakable even after the disappearance of Eddie in the Pacific, when he tried to paddle out for help to rescue the capsized Hōkūle’a and its crew. Clyde became the rock of the family after the passing of his brother He also honored his brother by creating a big wave surfing competition in his memory, calling it "The Eddie" Big Wave Invitational
From left: Aikau brothers Gerald, Clyde & Eddie, along with Willie Kapuni (Eddie Aikau Foundation)
Continued Anthony Esteves
Feeling the presence of Eddie throughout the tournament, Clyde won "The Eddie" Big Wave Invitational in 1986 Clyde also became a symbol and defender of Hawaiian culture, joining the crew of the Hōkūle a like his brother before him He worked as a Homeless Concerns liaison in Hawai’i for the Department of Education and would give surfing lessons with the Star Beachboys of Waikiki As memorable a legacy as Eddie has, Clyde crafted his own while continuing to honor his older brother
Eddie & Clyde (Encyclopedia of Surfing)
Having read the book and grown somewhat more comfortable with screenwriting, it was time to attempt my biopic screenplay on Eddie Aikau As added inspiration, my friend Curtis would text me, cheering me on. He, too, knew the Eddie Aikau story and was excited to hear I was pursuing this endeavor without any promise of it ever being produced. Curtis is one of those friends who makes you feel like you can do anything, and he will continuously remind you of that, no matter how often you may secondguess yourself
At his celebration of life, I promised him and his family that I would complete the project in honor of him, knowing he would want me to finish it
One year later, I did just that. A 130-page script inspired by the life of Eddie Aikau and his relationship with his brother Clyde A story that not only honors the Aikau family legacy and the art of wave riding but also places the spotlight on the resilience of the Hawaiian people and the beauty of their culture
Continue Anthony Esteves
Chasing Waterfalls and Wild Dreams
Melissa and I in Maui; June 2009
So, I now find myself emotional over the passing of Clyde Aikau due to how much I learned about him I feel like I lost a close family friend, even though I never met him I was never physically present for the family celebrations at the Aikau compound, yet in a way, I have experienced the love and joy shared at each of them I have never physically ridden a big wave at Waimea Bay, yet feel like I have witnessed the superb excellence of Eddie and Clyde taming the ocean with their longboards
The world knows Eddie would go because of Clyde's love for his brother And in that love, Clyde advanced his Aikau legacy A legacy that continues with his son Ha'a Just like Eddie, Clyde is a shining example of what it means to be a proud Hawaiian.
Eddie went, and so did Clyde. The Aikau brothers reunited, once again riding the moana waves and watching over the āina and its kanaka
In memory of the legendary Clyde Aikau.
Oct. 24, 1949 - May 3, 2025.
DIOGO
A TRIBUTE TO THE PLAYER WHO GAVE US MORE THAN GOALS AND THE BROTHER WHO STOOD BESIDE HIM.
MORE THAN A MATCH
DIOGO JOTA
In the world of football, there are players who impress and then there are those who inspire. Diogo Jota was both.
From the small town of Massarelos, Portugal, to Anfield and beyond, Diogo’s career was a masterclass in what happens when talent meets grit. On the pitch, he was explosive. Off the pitch, he was humble, grounded, and deeply proud of his roots.
Whether scoring crucial goals for Liverpool or stepping up in the red and green of the Seleção, Diogo played like he was carrying the hopes of an entire nation.
A L E G A C Y
But beyond the roar of the crowds and the glory of the game, Diogo Jota was also a brother. His connection with André Silva, though often private, was powerful. The two shared more than blood they shared dreams, laughter, and a loyalty that never wavered.
André was his safe place. His hype man. His constant. Their relationship was the kind that reminded us: no matter how far you go, you never go along.
In honoring Diogo, we also honor André Silva his brother, his shadow, and his biggest supporter.
Liverpool FC broke with tradition—retiring the number 20 jersey across men’s, women’s, and academy levels in Diogo’s honor, marking a club-first tribute . Clubs and fans worldwide, from Preston North End to Real Madrid’s training ground, observed moments of silence and black armbands in their memory . The Portuguese Football Federation, UEFA, and even the President expressed deep sorrow, calling their joint loss “devastating” and “irreparable” .
A generation of kids who believe you don’t have to be loud to be legendary.
A national team forever shaped by his style and sacrifice.
A country that will forever chant his name.
His was a career marked not just by goals, but by grace. By leadership without shouting. By talent without arrogance. By love pure, unconditional for the game and those who supported him.
CareerHighlights:
Clubs: Paços de Ferreira, FC Porto, Atlético Madrid, Wolverhampton, Liverpool FC
Debut for Portugal: 2019
UEFA Euro Participation: 2020
Trophies: Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, UEFA Super Cup
JOTA PORTUGALS WORKHORSE
Born in Gondomar, Jota wasn’t handed his path he carved it From the streets of northern Portugal to the world’s biggest stadiums, he climbed each level with discipline, grit, and undeniable brilliance He didn’t shout He didn’t boast He simply showed up and delivered
At Paços de Ferreira, he caught the eye At Wolverhampton, he proved his worth At Liverpool, he became world-class And in the red and green of Portugal, he became ours
But even at the top, Diogo remained grounded. He was a teammate before he was a superstar. A family man before he was a fan favorite. A Portuguese soul before he was a global name.Jota wasn’t built for theatrics. He was built for moments that mattered.
He didn’t score tap-ins he scored game-changers.
He didn’t need 90 minutes to prove himself he only needed a second of space
Whether leading Portugal’s line or coming off the bench for a late winner at Anfield, Jota was the ultimate weapon. A player with no ego, but every ounce of fight. Someone who embodied what it means to be Portuguese modest, proud, fearless.And he did it all with a quiet fire that burned hotter than most.
Diogo Jota didn’t need the world to know him. But now, the world will never forget him.
Obrigado, Jota Obrigado por tudo You played for us You lived for us You’ll forever be one of us
KAYLA SUBICA “TheHappyMedium”
ANDREA NUNES
A SELF PUBLISHED AUTHOR “PORTUGUESE WORDS”
SUMMER WORDS - BY: ANDREA NUNES
Verão- Summer
Calor - Heat
Praia - Beach
Sol -Sun
Mar -Sea
Areia-Sand
Óculos
WELCOME To
the
collective NEZIA D.
We’re excited to welcome Nezia as our resident storyteller in The Portuguese Collective Magazine! Her recipes come sprinkled with memories, traditions, and the irresistible flavors of Portugal. In her corner, you’ll find sweet treats, savory comforts, and the stories that make every bite feel like home.
Nezia brings warmth, tradition, and a dash of nostalgia to The Portuguese Collective Magazine. From cherished family dishes passed down through generations to memories that capture the heart of our culture, Nezia’s contributions are more than just food they’re a celebration of heritage. Her passion for keeping Portuguese flavors and traditions alive shines through in every recipe and every tale she shares
