South African Ambassador to Portugal and entrepreneur Tim Vieira push for stronger South African-Portuguese ties, emphasising investment opportunities and shared heritage.

CCILSA Celebrates 44th Anniversary, Emphasizing Heritage and Investment Opportunities

In a packed dining room at Restaurante O Palacete in Albufeira, the Luso-South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Portugal (CCILSA) marked its 44th anniversary with a celebration that focused on future potential while recognizing the strength of shared heritage. The event also honored South African Heritage Day, a commemoration of the country’s complex and diverse identity—an identity that has developed a fruitful connection with Portugal.

The significance of South African Heritage Day with its celebration of the country's cultural diversity provided the perfect backdrop for CCILSA´s milestone.

A Moment for Reflection

South Africa’s Ambassador to Portugal, Mmamokwena Gaoretelelwe, framed the occasion as both a celebration of culture and an invitation for growth. Her speech underscored the significance of Heritage Day, but also a forward-thinking message on the opportunities for strengthening the economic and cultural ties between South Africa and Portugal.

“Heritage Day is about more than remembering our past—it’s about using that history as a foundation to look towards the future,” she said. Gaoretelelwe highlighted the investment prospects in South Africa and encouraged the Portuguese to explore them. Her message to the audience was clear: shared interests, along with mutual respect, can provide the basis for a stronger economic relationship between the two nations.

For South Africans living in Portugal and those maintaining strong ties to their homeland, the Ambassador emphasized that their personal and professional stories are part of a larger, intertwined narrative of development.

Tim Vieira: An Entrepreneur Navigating Two Worlds

The keynote speaker, Tim Vieira, brought a personal touch to the proceedings. As a former president of CCILSA, a successful Portuguese-South African entrepreneur, and a candidate for the presidency of Portugal, Tim is uniquely positioned to speak about the importance of strengthening ties between the two countries.

“There’s something special about being able to call two countries home,” he began. Rather than simply celebrating his heritage, Tim used the opportunity to speak about the future—about how South Africans and Portuguese citizens alike can seize the opportunities that arise from deeper engagement between the two nations.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

Tim’s call for closer ties between the countries was not just rooted in ideals; it was grounded in his experiences as an entrepreneur and investor. His speech emphasized that strong connections between South Africa and Portugal will not only boost economic potential but also enrich cultural understanding.

Strategic Relationships: A Boost for CCILSA Members

The event was more than just a celebration—it was a showcase of CCILSA’s ongoing efforts to forge practical relationships that benefit its members. President Manuela, along with Ambassador Gaoretelelwe and Tim Vieira, took the opportunity to highlight some of the Chamber’s most valuable partnerships. These include a collaboration with TAAG, Angola Airlines, which provides CCILSA members with discounted flights between South Africa and Portugal, facilitating greater travel and business activity.

The Portugal News is another key partner, offering a 10% discount on advertising to CCILSA members. This initiative allows companies to gain visibility across both nations and showcases CCILSA’s commitment to providing concrete benefits to its members.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

Mental Health Awareness Initiative

As the evening progressed, CCILSA announced two major upcoming events, both of which signal the chamber’s forward-thinking approach. The first, set for October 27th in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a fundraising run in collaboration with Club 100 where the proceeds will revert to San Michele Home – Mental Health Clinic. The run aims to raise awareness of mental health issues, a cause that resonates across both nations and unites them in a shared effort to address an often-overlooked challenge. Purchase tickets online https://www.ticketpros.co.za/ (Pineapple Run).

The second event, taking place on November 29th, in the Algarve, Portugal is CCILSA’s annual Christmas Gala, a festive evening that promises dinner, dancing, and "plenty of surprises".

Both events highlight CCILSA’s commitment to addressing important social issues while also bringing together its members for networking and celebration. The upcoming activities underscore the chamber’s mission to build stronger ties through meaningful engagement and collective action.

For further information please visit our website www.ccilsa.org at or email us at info@ccilsa.org.