MAY 2026 - SAPCC at Portugal Nação Global 2026
The SAPCC delegation, represented by Ricardo de Freitas CA(SA), Rui Fragoso, participating SAPCC members including Grupel South Africa, Wellness Warehouse, PetroTech, Road Galaxy and other leaders from the South African Portuguese community, proudly represented South Africa at this landmark first edition global forum in Lisbon.
Throughout the event, delegates engaged in insightful discussions, high-level networking, and B2B collaboration, reinforcing the importance of the Portuguese diaspora in driving business, innovation, and international partnerships.
A special highlight was SAPCC being featured twice in the respected Portuguese publication Diário de Notícias. The first feature appeared on page 6 of the 30 April 2026 edition, showcasing Ricardo de Freitas CA(SA), Rui Fragoso, and fellow SAPCC delegation members proudly representing the South African Portuguese business community on an international stage. The second feature appeared on page 28 of the 03 May 2026 edition and focused on SAPCC Director Ricardo de Freitas CA(SA), sharing his reflections and experience at Portugal, Nação Global 2026, and highlighting the value of strengthening global Portuguese business connections and creating opportunities across borders.
Beyond the conference sessions, delegates also enjoyed the cultural side of Lisbon during the Workers’ Day public holiday, visiting iconic attractions in Belém including Cristo Rei, the MAAT Museum, and the Coach Museum.
SAPCC extends its sincere appreciation to the organisers of Portugal, Nação Global 2026 for hosting such an impactful international platform, and to the Portuguese Embassy in South Africa for the invitation and continued support in strengthening ties between South Africa and Portugal.
Portugal, Nação Global demonstrated the strength and reach of the global Portuguese network, and SAPCC remains committed to connecting people, businesses, and opportunities between South Africa and Portugal.
Thank you to our sponsors and trip supporters TAAG - Linhas Aéreas de Angola, XL Novo Mundo Travel, Cell C, and Grupel South Africa.
#SAPCC #PortugalNacaoGlobal #DiarioDeNoticias #PortugueseDiaspora #GlobalConnections #BusinessWithoutBorders #Portugal #SouthAfrica
FEBRUARY 2026 - ✨ SAPCC Celebrates Women in Business 2026 – What an Evening! ✨
With over 100 attendees in the room, the energy, engagement and sense of community were exceptional. We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests, with many describing this as the best edition of the event yet — a testament to the calibre of speakers, the richness of the conversation and the powerful connections made on the night.
A heartfelt thank you to our outstanding panel:
🌟 Manuela Dias de Deus – Founder of One-Eyed Jack and winner of the Industry Impact Award at the SAPCC Business Excellence Awards 2025
🌟 Ruth Field 🇿🇦 – Director of AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals
🌟 Bronwyn Trower – Investec Co-Fund Manager on Private Markets and Fixed Income Analyst
🌟 Katia De Vallier – Associate Actuary and Founder of KDV Consulting
Expertly moderated by Nicole da Silva — radio personality, producer and media professional — who guided a dynamic and engaging conversation throughout the evening.
The discussion covered leadership, success, inspirational life journeys, challenges in business, mentorship and the importance of lifting others as we grow. It was an honest, empowering and deeply motivating exchange that resonated with everyone present.
After the panel discussion, a lively and engaging Q&A session followed, with excellent participation from the audience and thoughtful exchanges between guests and speakers.
A very special thank you to Investec for hosting us so generously. Your incredible venue, exceptional catering and warm hospitality created the perfect setting for meaningful dialogue and networking. Thank you to Investec Team including Prudence Mashalane, Daniela Lucas-Bull, Thalicia Esteban.
We were also delighted to present tokens of appreciation to our panelists and the Investec team. Gifts were presented by SAPCC Board members Anabela Diogo and Ricardo de Freitas CA(SA) as a small gesture of thanks for their time and contribution to the success of the evening.
During the event, SAPCC Premium Member Certificates were proudly presented to:
🏅 Hanlie Burger of Sunskin
🏅 Manuela da Silva of Independent Trustee Services
Thank you to all who attended and contributed to making the evening so memorable. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and support women in business within our community.
SEPTEMBER 2025 - 🌟 ANNOUNCING THE WINNERS OF THE SAPCC CELL C BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2025! 🌟
✨ The evening opened with a powerful performance by Katia De Vallier, debuting her original song “Nothing Should Stop You”—a perfect tribute to our new headline sponsorship with Cell C. Later, the audience was captivated by a special fado performance from fadistas Nani Medeiros and Zé Maria, accompanied by master guitarists Bruno Mira and João Pita, bringing the soulful sounds of Portugal to the stage.
🎉 We are thrilled to unveil the winners of the SAPCC Cell C Business Excellence Awards 2025—outstanding individuals and businesses whose vision, resilience, and innovation inspire us all.
We are proud to honour this year’s outstanding winners:
• 🏆 Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Ben Rodrigues (CT)
• 🏆 Franchisor of the Year – Liquor City (Jhb)
• 🏆 Businessperson of the Year – Cristina Teixeira, CFO Spurs (Jhb)
• 🏆 Medium Business of the Year – Sunbrite (Jhb)
• 🏆 Large Business of the Year – Big Save (Jhb)
• 🏆 Professional of the Year – Dr Gabriel Pereira, Dentistry Chain (Pretoria)
• 🏆 Entrepreneur of the Year – José dos Passos
• 🏆 Industry Impact Award – Manuela Dias de Deus, One-Eyed Jack (CT)
• 🏆 Top Brand Award – Wellness Warehouse (CT)
• 🏆 International Business of the Year – Mota Engil (Jhb)
✨ The evening featured inspiring keynotes, world-class entertainment, and ended with a spectacular prize draw for two business class tickets to Portugal (sponsored by TAAG Airlines) and 7 nights at a 4-star hotel in Portugal (sponsored by Novo Mundo) – won by Mr. José de Gouveia. Guests were addressed by Cell C CEO Jorge Mendes, Ambassador of Portugal to South Africa H.E. Dr. Carlos Costa Neves, and a special video message from the Portuguese Secretary of State for Portuguese Communities, Emídio Costa, whom we sincerely thank.
🙏 A huge thank you to our sponsors:
• Headline Sponsor: Cell C
• Platinum Sponsors: Absa South Africa, One Power Cloud, TAAG - Linhas Aéreas de Angola
• Gold Sponsors: Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Rosond
• Silver Sponsors: OBC Group, Casa das Natas_za , The Troyeville , Camões – Instituto da Cooperação e da Língua, SAPOR Group
Thank you to all those that contributed to making this a special and successful event. Thank you to:
• Americo Pimentel, Joaquim Melo and special thanks to Consul General Afonso Laginha for collaborating on bringing the fadistas to SA.
• SAPCC Awards Committee
• The SAPCC Team including Rui Marto, Pedro Pereira, Anabela Diogo, Ricardo De Freitas, Andrew Da Costa, Raquel Simoes and Rui Fragoso
• Zita Duarte and your team at 360 Link for the outstanding organisation of the event.
SEPTEMBER 2025 - SAPCC AND YAPS CO-HOST JUÍZO NA CABEÇA YOUTH LEADERSHIP SUMMIT AT MARIST BROTHERS LINMEYER IN JOHANNESBURG SOUTH
Our heartfelt thanks to this year’s speakers for sharing their stories, expertise, and wisdom:
🇵🇹 Afonso Laginha – Consul General of Portugal in Johannesburg
🇵🇹 Carlos Costa Neves – His Excellency, Ambassador of Portugal to South Africa
🇵🇹 André Costa – President, National Youth Council Portugal
🇵🇹 Fernando Carvalho – Economic & Trade Counsellor, AICEP Portugal Global
🇵🇹 Joel Coelho – Camões Institute South Africa Coordinator
🇿🇦 Dr Monique Cruz Piderit – Registered Dietitian (SA)
⚽ Zeca Marques – UEFA Pro Football Coach
🎥 Miguel & Ashley Pregueiro – Award-Winning Football Creators & Manchester Derby 3.0 Presenters
👠 Michelle da Fonseca – Country Manager, Steve Madden South Africa
💼 Ricardo de Freitas (CA(SA)) – Director, South African Portuguese Chamber of Commerce (SAPCC)
🏭 Gilda da Rego – Head of Sales & Marketing, Plastic Ideas
👩💼 Micaela de Gouveia – Chairperson, Young Adult Portuguese Society (Y.A.P.S)
⚖️ Michael de Freitas – Director, MDF Attorneys
💬 Linda Dias Menezes – Specialist Wellness Counsellor & Co-Founder, Epilepsy Awareness SA
Each speaker left us inspired with stories of leadership, resilience, and pride in our shared Portuguese heritage.
Thank you to our partners — Camões Institute, AICEP Portugal Global, SAPCC, and Marist Brothers Linmeyer — for helping make this year’s event a resounding success.
#JuizoNaCabeca2025 #YAPS #PortugueseCommunity #Leadership #YouthEmpowerment #SAPCC #CulturalExchange #PortugalSouthAfrica
AUGUST 2025 - UNDERSTANDING THE EMPLOYMENT EQUITY AMENDMENT ACT: CLARITY, COMPLIANCE, AND THE COUNTDOWN TO SEPTEMBER
With expert insights from Jennifer Da Mata (CEO, Strata-g Group), Adv. Tertius Wessels (Managing Director), and Mandilakhe Gcilitshana (Employment Equity Specialist), the discussion addressed what these sweeping changes mean for designated employers – and how to prepare before the 1 September 2025 compliance deadline.
💡 Key Takeaways:
• Non-compliance fines of R1.5 million OR 2–10% of turnover (whichever is higher)
• No government contracts without a compliance certificate
• Your B-BBEE rating is now linked to your employment equity status
• Don’t delay: Your 5-year Employment Equity Plan must be ready by 1 September
Mandilakhe Gcilitshana advised that a solid Employment Equity Plan should be Realistic, Measurable and Sustainable.
Thank you to all the chambers and attendees for attending. A huge thank you to Jennifer da Mata, Adv. Tertius Wessels and Mandilakhe Gcilitshana from Strata-g Group.
🕒 With just weeks to go, we ask:
What’s your biggest challenge in implementing these changes?
And more importantly — what support do you need? https://strata-g.co.za/
#SAPCC #EmploymentEquity #EEA #BBBEE #Transformation #Compliance #Equity #LabourLaw
JUNE 2025 - “WHICH WAY SOUTH AFRICA: POVERTY OR PROSPERITY?” – DAVID ANSARA 2025 KEYNOTE
Hosted in collaboration with the South African Portuguese, Italian, Belgian, and Irish Chambers of Commerce, the event brought together business leaders, diplomats, and professionals to explore the policy decisions that could unlock South Africa’s growth and investment potential.
David’s message was clear and compelling:
🔹 Economic freedom drives prosperity.
🔹 South Africa must embrace reform, private property rights, and open markets.
🔹 Businesses need to ``state-proof`` their strategies in an unpredictable policy landscape.
A special thanks to all four chambers for their partnership, and to the Cape Town Club — a venue steeped in heritage — for hosting us in such a remarkable setting.
#DavidAnsara #FreeMarketFoundation #SouthAfrica #EconomicFreedom #ChambersOfCommerce #CapeTownClub #PolicyMatters #BusinessLeadership #SAPCC #BilateralChambers
OCTOBER 2024 - ANNOUNCING THE WINNERS OF THE SAPCC 10TH ANNIVERSARY ABSA BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024!
Congratulations to all the outstanding recipients of this year's SAPCC Absa Business Excellence Awards! We take pride in celebrating excellence across various industries within our community.
The event was skillfully hosted by former Miss SA, Vanessa Carreira.
SAPCC directors Rui Marto and Pedro Pereira took the stage to share a summary of the SAPCC's accomplishments over the past decade. Their engaging presentation highlighted the Chamber's key milestones and its significant impact on fostering business relationships and cultural ties. Their lively skit had the crowd roaring with laughter, showcasing their charisma.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our keynote speakers, Isabel Amoils, Absa Head of Commercial Property, and Mr. José Costa Pereira, Ambassador of Portugal in South Africa, for their inspiring words.
A moving tribute was made to two of our founding members, Raul Martins and Victor Sabio.
Mario Afonso received the Creative Excellence Award for his outstanding contributions to the SAPCC Newsletter since 2016, while Rui Fragoso was honored with the Distinguished Service Award for his dedication as SAPCC General Manager.
In a special moment, both former and current board members of the SAPCC were invited on stage to acknowledge their decade of leadership and service.
Winners List:
Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Diogo Mendonça - Blacksmith Culture
Industry Impact Award: Victor Ferreira - Reef Tankers
Business of the Year (Under 100 Employees): Jose and Pablo Simoes - Compact Cool
Large Business of the Year: Jad Pereira - Unitrade Management Services
Brand of the Year: Fernando Duarte - Nando’s
Family Business: Do Rego Family - Plastic Ideas
Digital Innovation Award: Sergio Barbosa - Global Kinetic
International Business of the Year: Joaquim Sá - Amorim Cork South Africa
Business Person of the Year: Jorge Mendes - CEO Cell C
Lifetime Achievement Award: Mimi Jardim
We would also like to express our gratitude to our fantastic sponsors:
Headline Sponsor: Absa Bank
Platinum Sponsors: Carfind.co.za, Commercialfind.co.za
Gold Sponsors: TAAG Angola Airlines, OBC Group, KIA
Silver Sponsors: Rangel Logistics, Troyeville Hotel, XL Novo Mundo Travel, Casa das Natas, Caixa Geral de Depósitos.
The evening featured an exciting lucky draw, sponsored by TAAG Angola Airlines and Garvetur & Novo Mundo Travel, with Daniel da Silva winning two business class tickets to Portugal and a 7-night stay!
To cap off the night, Mi Casa took the stage and had everyone dancing! 🎶💃🕺
OCTOBER 2024 - SAPCC AND YAPS CO-HOST JUÍZO NA CABEÇA YOUTH LEADERSHIP SUMMIT AT THE PORTUGUESE EMBASSY IN PRETORIA
Since its inception in 2017, Juízo na Cabeça has been organized in partnership with SAPCC and YAPS (Young Adult Portuguese Society). The event has evolved over the years, featuring various formats, including an ``amazing race`` at Gold Reef City Amusement Park, events at the Johannesburg Zoo, and virtual gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year’s summit included an open dialogue with 35 participants, comprising students, business leaders, and the Ambassador of Portugal to South Africa, Jose Costa-Pereira. Presentations featured:
- YAPS and SAPCC: Their partnership and initiatives for young Portuguese South Africans, presented by Director Ricardo de Freitas CA(SA).
- AICEP Portugal Trade and Investment Agency: Opportunities for Portuguese youth in Portugal, presented by Trade Councilor Guilherme Lopes.
- Camões Institute of Cooperation and Language: Study opportunities for Portuguese youth in Portugal, presented by Country Coordinator Joel Coelho.
Agile Working Environments: A guest speech by renowned Portuguese South African UEFA PRO football coach, mentor, and commentator Zeca Marques.
The discussions sparked enthusiasm among participants, encouraging greater youth involvement in events that celebrate Portuguese culture and heritage within South Africa.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors Sportmania Distributors, Trinity Business Solutions, Casa das Natas, the Troyeville Hotel, AICEP Portugal Trade and Investment Agency, Camões Institute of Cooperation and Language; and the Embassy for hosting this impactful event, which highlighted the importance of empowering our community's youth.
SEPTEMBER 2024 - SAPCC CO-HOST MULTI-CHAMBER SPEED NETWORKING TRIUMPH AT INVESTEC CAPE TOWN
The night kicked off with a warm welcome by SAPCC Cape Town representative, Andrew da Costa and Investec’s Andreas Christodoulou. This was followed by a captivating address by Tim Harris, former CEO of Wesgro, and former member of parliament and expert in trade, investment, and economic growth. He explored the exciting opportunities for businesses in the Western Cape and South Africa under the new Government of National Unity. His speech set the stage for the highly anticipated speed networking session, led by Gabriel Da Matta.
In this structured format, participants had a series of timed, one-on-one conversations, offering the perfect platform to quickly connect with a diverse group of professionals from various industries. This dynamic networking session sparked meaningful connections and allowed attendees to exchange ideas and explore potential business collaborations.
The networking rounds were followed by a word of thanks from the Italian Chamber’s Dylan Stewart and distribution of gifts. SAPCC membership certificates were awarded to our new premium members—R&R Wine Technologies, iProtect Trustees and Carvano Capital- welcome to the community!
Huge thanks to our main event sponsor, Investec. Thank you to event sponsors Constantia Wine and Craft, @Casa das Natas, Gabriel da Matta and Surdo Prop and The Intrepid.
Thank you to tour sponsors The newkings boutique hotel, Kia Tygervalley and C2 Investment Technologies Group group. A big thank you to our partners the Belgian Chamber and the Italian-SA Chamber of Trade and Industries.
Thank you to Andrew da Costa and the team at Investec, especially Andreas Christodoulou and Janita Storm, Dylan Stewart and Jasmina Devinck Devnick, Almaza da Costa and Raquel Simoes. Thank you Cape Town!
Should you wish to become a member or be part of the SAPCC Cape Town team, reach out to Andrew da Costa at andrew@theintrepid.co or Rui Marto at rui@sapcc.co.za . Don't miss out on this chance to be part of the growing SAPCC business community.
SEPTEMBER 2024 - SAPCC JOINS “TERRA NOSSA” IN CELEBRATING CAPE TOWN’S PORTUGUESE COMMUNITY
Known for celebrating local communities, the show combines humour with heartwarming stories as César immerses himself in the unique culture of each town he visits. This episode highlights the vibrant Portuguese-South African community in Cape Town, and we were thrilled to be part of this unforgettable experience! Stay tuned for when it airs on SIC!
Thank you to César Mourão and his production team and the CT Portuguese community.
AUGUST 2024 - SAPCC WOMEN IN BUSINESS: STORIES OF SUCCESS, LEADERSHIP, AND EMPOWERMENT
Our incredible panel of women shared their insights on Leadership, Success, Challenges in Business, and Mentorship:
👩🍳 Mimi Jardim – Chef, Author, TV Personality, and Home-Cookery Expert
💼 Natércia Fernandes – Managing Director & Owner at 3F Scientic
🏃♀️ Maggie da Silva – Biokineticist and Chair of Exercise is Medicine SA
🚗 Ndia Magadagela – Co-Founder at Everlectric
A special thank you to our fantastic moderator, Cindy Poluta, who led the discussion and facilitated an engaging Q&A session that allowed guests to interact with the panel and dive deeper into their inspiring stories.
We’d also like to express our sincere thanks to our generous sponsors:
🥐 Casa das Natas
🏨 The Troyeville Hotel
🍾 Liquor City
☀️ Sunskin
Your support made this event possible! Thank you to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration and networking.
JULY 2024 - SAPCC COLLABORATES THROUGH SPORT, BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY FOR THE FIRST HISTORIC PORTUGAL VS SOUTH AFRICA RUGBY TEST MATCH
The South African Portuguese Chamber of Commerce (SAPCC) and over 5,000 members of the Portuguese community came together, showcasing strong ties and unity. The atmosphere was electric, with Portuguese fans creating a vibrant sea of red and green, waving flags, and singing traditional songs.
A highlight of the event was J’Something of Micasa singing the Portuguese national anthem, marking a “full circle” moment for him.
The game was a spectacular display of rugby, with the Springboks winning 64-21, but the true victory was in the camaraderie and mutual respect shared by fans.
Historic moments continued with Scot Hollie Davidson becoming the first female referee in a South African test match. The event also included various pre- and post-game activities, traditional dances, and a lively Portuguese corner filled with fans.
Thank you, Bloemfontein! The Portuguese community was warmly received, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to the South African Rugby Union, the Portuguese Rugby Federation, the Young Adult Portuguese Society and all who contributed to this unforgettable celebration of rugby and community.
JULY 2024 - SAPCC PARTICIPATE IN EU EVENT- FORCES OF CHANGE REQUIRES NEW APPROACHES TO BUSINESS GROWTH WITH PAVLO PHITIDIS
Key Takeaways:
Strategic decisions and sustainability are crucial for long-term success.
Focus on innovation within your industry to stay ahead.
Niche specialization can drive significant revenue growth.
Clear articulation of your business's purpose and target audience is vital.
Adaptation and seizing opportunities during crises, like COVID-19, can lead to success.
Visionary leadership and long-term commitment are key to sustaining success.
Continuous learning and improvement foster growth.
Independent thinking and observation help in making informed decisions.
Community involvement can significantly impact project success.
Building a scalable and transferable business model creates lasting value.
We extend our gratitude to the Italian Chamber of Commerce, our partners (British Chamber, Nordic-SA Business Association, Belgian Chamber, EU Chamber), and our sponsor, Aurik Enterprise Development, for making this event possible.
Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in the enriching Q&A session. Let's continue to connect, learn, and grow together!
JUNE 2024 - SOUTH AFRICAN ECONOMY AFTER THE ELECTIONS WITH DAWIE ROODT
Following the election, the most important focus should be on fiscal stimulus and infrastructure development as one way to inject vitality into the economy, creating jobs and stimulating growth. Additionally, the commitment to fostering innovation and supporting small businesses bodes well for entrepreneurial endeavours and technological advancements. Despite differences in ideology, there's a shared determination to work towards common goals and address pressing issues such as climate change, healthcare reform, and social justice. The emphasis on bipartisanship and cooperation fosters an environment conducive to progress and positive change. While challenges undoubtedly lie ahead, the collective resolve and proactive approach to businesses displayed in the seminar inspire hope for a brighter tomorrow.
The Sanctuary Mandela House was a stunning venue, enhancing the networking opportunities.
Thank you to all the members that attended the event. A big thank you to Dawie Roodt and the Nordic SA Business Association (NSBA) and Italian SA Chamber.
JUNE 2024 - SAPCC PARTICIPATES IN PORTUGAL INVESTMENT AND GOLDEN VISA SEMINAR
We had the pleasure of collaborating with esteemed local Portuguese investment experts @PortugalPanoramaCapital and Aquila Fund FCR, along with the renowned Portuguese law firm @CCALawFirm.
Highlights from the seminar included:
🔹@AndrewdaCosta welcomed all and introduced the SAPCC.
🔹 @PatriciaCarneiro delivered an insightful update on the Golden Visa Programme, outlining the latest developments and opportunities.
🔹 @MichaelMaxwell introduced his innovative Classic Car Fund, Wheels, offering a unique investment opportunity in the booming Classic Car Alternative Asset Market, which also qualifies for Golden Visa investment.
The event concluded on a high note with captivating stories from Classic Car enthusiasts John Smit (SA Rugby) and @LuisAssisTeixeira, one of Portugal’s largest classic car collectors, who shared their passion and experiences with some of their most cherished classic car investments.
Thank you to all those that participated in the event. Thank you to Michael Maxwell, all the speakers and Andrew da Costa.
Stay tuned for more updates and exciting events from SAPCC!
APRIL 2024 - SAPCC CAPE TOWN CHAPTER LAUNCH
Want to learn more about how you can partner with us or become a sponsor for future events? Reach out to us today! Contact rui@sapcc.co.za.
Want to learn more about how you can partner with us or become a sponsor for future events? Reach out to us today! Contact rui@sapcc.co.za.
FEBRUARY 2024 - EU Chambers Breakfast & SAPCC Cape Town Branch Feasibility Study Session
#WatchThisSpace!
OCTOBER 2023 - SAPCC & ABSA BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS & GALA DINNER
OCTOBER 2023 - FUTURE OF AI IN BUSINESS: Opportunities and Challenges Part 2
OCTOBER 2023 - EU Chambers Golf Day
JUNE 2023 - FUTURE OF AI IN BUSINESS: Opportunities and Challenges Part 1
JUNE 2023 - SAPCC is honoured with the Order of Merit from President of Portugal
MAY 2023 - NAMPO SAPCC Visit
OCTOBER 2022 - CEO Masterclass
APRIL 2022 - Power Hour with David Shapiro
SEPTEMBER 2022 - Women in Business
