Co-founder, CEO and owner of The Elegant Group (Martinhal Family Hotels & Resorts), entrepreneur Chitra Stern has been awarded the ‘Medal of Merit for Tourism’ by the Portuguese Government.

The Silver Medal of Merit which is like an OBE in the UK, recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the tourism sector and economy in Portugal, acknowledging their dedication and impact on the development of the industry in Portugal.

The prestigious medal was presented by the Minister of Economy, Pedro Reis and the Secretary of State of Tourism, Pedro Machado to Chitra's husband, CMO of the Elegant Group, Roman Stern, who accepted the award on Chitra's behalf at the 7th Confederation of the Portuguese Tourism Summit.

On her LinkedIn post, Chitra Stern expressed her gratitude by writing: "I don’t have words except that it is an honor and a privilege to receive this commendation from the Portuguese Government as a foreigner. This medal represents not only a celebration of our past achievements and dedication but also a responsibility for the future. I do not underestimate this. Thank you, Portugal and her people.

“We are committed to continuing our contribution to the Portuguese economy in a sustainable and responsible way. We continue to believe in Portugal and her potential. Viva Portugal “Malta” (which means people) - thank you all and we have more work to do! Let’s continue our efforts!”

The Sterns have been leaders in the hospitality sector as well as moving beyond that into the realm of education. To date, Martinhal Hotels and Resorts has extraordinary properties across Portugal: Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Hotel, Martinhal Quinta do Lago, Martinhal Lisbon Chiado and Martinhal Lisbon Oriente and Martinhal Residences.

In 2020, Chitra and Roman Stern founded the United Lisbon International School (ULIS) & Edu Hub. The school offers K-12 international education with an innovative approach and world-class facilities in Lisbon Oriente close to Parque das Nações and right at the heart of the emerging “technology district” in Lisbon. ULIS was the first international school to partner with the Dukes Education Group outside of the United Kingdom.

Author

Following undertaking her university degree in English with American Literature in the UK, Cristina da Costa Brookes moved back to Portugal to pursue a career in Journalism, where she has worked at The Portugal News for 3 years. Cristina’s passion lies with Arts & Culture as well as sharing all important community-related news.

Cristina da Costa Brookes