Orlando M. Mateus, resident in the United States, is appointed to the Portuguese Value Awards (PV 2025), awarded by Lusopress, based in France. Born in Montinho da Corte Serrano, near Cachopo, in the municipality of Tavira, has been promoted in the promotion of Portuguese culture in the United States. Son of Manuel José Mateus and Maria Antonieta Martins Mateus, he emigrated eight years old to Fox Point, Providence, a deeply rooted neighborhood in the Portuguese community, which strengthened his connection to the origins.
This annual distinction, created in 2011, aims to recognize the merit of Portuguese who, in several countries, have had a remarkable course, honoring both themselves and the communities where they are inserted and Portugal.
“Orlando’s dedication to Portuguese art and heritage began at Hope High School, where she participated in the arts Magnet Program. Although admitted to the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design, he chose Rhode Island College for financial reasons, completing the graphic design bachelor’s degree while working full -time at the Hospital of St. Joseph, ”says Luspress publication.
His professional career has gone through companies such as Printsource and FGX International, where he led the graphic department for 13 years. He is currently responsible for the label and packaging design team at Hologic, a medical technology company focused on women’s health.
In 2015, with adult children, Orlando embraced the community service, following the motto: “First learns, then won and then Serves.”
Under Portugal Day in Rhode Island, he took a leadership role in revitalizing the organization, creating a modern logo and promoting events such as “Taste The Passion” dinner and a movie night. In addition, it boosted the integration of Portugal Day celebrations on PVD Fest.
During its presidency in 2018 and 2019, Orlando modernized the organization and united local clubs, promoting a dynamic and culturally rich celebration. His vision resulted in a successful collaboration with PVD Fest, attracting crowds and highlighting the importance of cultural diversity. The presence of President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister António Costa at the celebrations reinforced the relevance of the event at national level.
Among its most striking initiatives, it stands out “the creation of a commemorative registration of Portugal Day and also the rename of a street in Providence for“ Portugal Parkway ”. This initiative, celebrated in 2023, was attended by figures such as Senator Jack Reed and Ambassador Francisco Duarte Lopes, cementing Portuguese influence on Rhode Island. ”
In addition to its cultural contribution, Orlando also plays an active role in humanitarian causes in Mozambique and supports community events that celebrate Portuguese culture. In 2024, he was recognized as Co-Grand Marshal at Portuguese Day, Camões and Portuguese Communities.
His passion for preserving and promoting Portuguese culture is reflected in each project he develops. He stated, “it firmly believes that it is up to current generations to honor and convey the legacy of its predecessors.”
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