Cesar Lopes
esar Lopes is driven by a deep curiosity about personal growth and redefining success. Born in Cabo Verde and raised in the Netherlands, he followed the traditional path of education but soon realized that true fulfillment lies beyond external expectations. A transformative journey around the world led him to question old patterns and embrace a life of purpose and flexibility. His work explores self-leadership, emotional awareness, and the freedom to design a life aligned with one’s values.
Jessy Barreto
Jessy is a former aerospace engineer who transitioned into professional videography and content creation. As the founder of a global production company, he has collaborated with top-tier brands across various industries, delivering high-quality visual storytelling. Through platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, he shares insights into the creative process, inspiring others to refine their craft and pursue their passions.
Joshua Kwaku Asiedu
Joshua Kwaku Asiedu is an eco-entrepreneur who journeyed from the streets of Milan to the forests of Ghana in a quest for self-discovery. Inspired by lessons from indigenous communities, he built his own eco-village, creating a model for sustainable living by reconnecting with the land. His work blends ancestral wisdom with modern innovation, offering a powerful example of how to live in harmony with nature.
Maria Julia Semedo Moreira
Maria Julia Semedo is a Cape Verdean chef, entrepreneur, and owner of Chez Maria Julia Boutique Hotel in Praia. Born on Santiago Island and trained in Rotterdam at Albeda College and Gimsel Academy, she mastered sustainable cooking before returning home. Sister to singer Gil Semedo, she gained recognition with her TV show Na Cozinha Ku Maria Julia and built a modern hotel featuring organic dining, a rooftop garden, and a cooking studio. Through her work, she empowers youth, blending Cape Verdean heritage with a vision for a thriving, self-reliant community.
Miriam Natali Cruz Ferreira Medina
Miriam Medina é socióloga, escritora e ativista dedicada a expor e combater a violência de gênero em Cabo Verde. Através dos seus livros e do seu ativismo, quebrou tabus sobre temas como a violência no namoro, a violência obstétrica e o abuso intrafamiliar. O seu trabalho tem sido reconhecido com prémios nacionais e internacionais na área dos direitos humanos e do impacto social. Com um compromisso incansável pela justiça, desafia indivíduos, famílias e governos a assumirem a responsabilidade de proteger as crianças vulneráveis e construir uma sociedade mais segura.
Néstor Carvalhal Andrade
Néstor Andrade is a project and communication manager with almost a decade of experience in youth development and leadership initiatives. As the founder and president of an organization dedicated to educational and motivational support, he designs programs that equip young people in Cabo Verde with the skills to become proactive leaders. With a background in business administration and marketing, Néstor combines strategic planning and creative storytelling to drive meaningful impact. His mission is to empower the next generation to contribute to the country’s growth and development.
Noelisa Simone Vieira Andrade Santos
Nascida e criada em São Vicente, Cabo Verde, Noelisa Santos encontrou na dança um refúgio muito antes de torná-la sua profissão. Aos 13 anos, emigrou para os Países Baixos, onde aprofundou os seus estudos em diversas formas de dança, incluindo ballet, dança contemporânea, afro-jazz e danças urbanas. Mais tarde, expandiu os seus conhecimentos na China e no Senegal, explorando danças tradicionais. Agora de volta a Cabo Verde, dedica-se ao ensino e à criação artística, sendo uma referência na área. Acredita que a dança é uma ferramenta poderosa de expressão, transformação e conexão, ajudando pessoas a reencontrarem a sua força interior através do movimento.
Terza Silva Lima-Neves
Dr. Terza Lima-Neves is an educator, scholar, and advocate dedicated to transforming education and uplifting communities. A Harvard Business School-certified leader and award-winning professor, she champions equity, cultural awareness, and empowerment for Black and brown women and girls. As an author and thought leader, she explores identity, resilience, and social change, co-editing groundbreaking works on Cabo Verdean culture. A dynamic speaker, Dr. Lima-Neves has shared insights at institutions such as UNC-Chapel Hill and Howard University, inspiring audiences to rethink education, leadership, and inclusion. Her impact has been recognized globally, earning honors from the Government of Cabo Verde and the Boston Red Sox Strelas Awards