The America Awards
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Recognition Built on Achievement, Impact and Legacy

The America Awards was created in the United States to recognize individuals, professionals, creators, entrepreneurs, businesses and organizations whose work demonstrates achievement, leadership and meaningful impact.

The 2026 edition marks the 10th edition of The America Awards, continuing its history of recognition with international participation.

Leadership

Board of Directors

The America Awards brings together experienced professionals and leaders who contribute to the evaluation and voting process for each edition.

12 Voting Directors
Portrait of Andressa Martins, CEO of Festival Mundial de Publicidade de Gramado

Andressa Martins

CEO, Festival Mundial de Publicidade de Gramado

Andressa Martins is the CEO of the Festival Mundial de Publicidade de Gramado, one of Latin America’s most respected creative industry gatherings. With more than 20 years of involvement with the Festival, she now leads its strategic reinvention for a global era, connecting brands, leaders, and innovators. A journalist and branding strategist, she focuses on authority, emotional positioning, and the future of creativity powered by AI. In 2026, Andressa was also a panelist at SXSW, expanding her participation in global conversations about creativity, branding, and innovation.

Portrait of Nezio Monteiro, Entrepreneur and Author

Nezio Monteiro

Entrepreneur and Author

Nézio Monteiro is a Brazilian entrepreneur and author whose journey reflects resilience, leadership, and vision, rising from humble beginnings in Goiás. He founded his first company at age 20 and later expanded into personal development, impacting more than 20,000 students through transformative programs. The author of 11 books, he has received multiple awards for his contributions to entrepreneurship and personal growth, and was honored as Influencer International of the Year at the Midia America Awards 2024 for his inspiring trajectory.

Portrait of Bruno Clemente, Director of Photography

Bruno Clemente

Director of Photography

Bruno Clemente is a Director of Photography, Cinematographer, and Camera Operator with over 20 years of experience in Brazil and the United States. He built a solid career in television journalism and live broadcast production, contributing to major networks such as TV Globo, SBT, and TV Brasil, with coverage of events including the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the 2016 Rio Olympics, and UFC events. Since 2023, he has worked in the U.S. as a Video Producer at Our Family Church in Orlando, leading innovative audiovisual projects, and provides ongoing coverage of the Tim Tebow Foundation’s annual Night to Shine event. Bruno is a member of the Society of Camera Operators (SOC), FENAJ, and IFJ, and serves as a juror for international film festivals. He is recognized for his creative vision and technical excellence.

Portrait of Adriana Moa, Visual Artist

Adriana Moa

Visual Artist

Adriana Moa is a businesswoman and visual artist with over a decade of experience as a multinational executive, leading strategic operations in the global market. In the United States, she established herself as a property management entrepreneur and founded cultural impact initiatives through her art. She also works in human development, leading the mentorship program “Dor Gera Propósito” and the book club “Papo de Livro.” She currently serves on The America Awards Board, contributing as a juror recognizing excellence across business categories.

Portrait of Andrea Bowers, Attorney

Andrea Bowers

Attorney

Dr. Andrea Bowers is an attorney licensed in both Brazil and the United States, with over ten years of experience in business law in Brazil. She holds an LL.M. in Business Law from the University of Texas at Austin and was admitted to the Texas Bar the same year. A member of the Texas Bar and a frequent AILA speaker, she is a partner at Andrade Law Firm, a leading U.S. immigration law firm. Dr. Bowers also co-authored “Negócios Sobre Saltos,” inspiring women in business and leadership.

Portrait of Claudio Costa, CEO of BraziTV

Claudio Costa

CEO, BraziTV

Claudio Costa serves as CEO of BraziTV, a platform bringing Brazilian television content to international audiences. Under his leadership, BraziTV has become a vital link for the Brazilian diaspora, providing access to news, entertainment, and cultural programming from Brazil. His work has been instrumental in promoting Brazilian culture and entertainment on a global scale, and his commitment to broadcasting quality has positioned BraziTV as a trusted, reliable source of Brazilian media abroad for viewers around the world. Claudio’s leadership continues to strengthen the connection between Brazil and its diaspora through consistent, high-quality programming.

Portrait of Caroline Fischer Espi, President of CFBACC

Caroline Fischer Espi

President of CFBACC

Caroline Fischer Espi is a founding member of First Choice Law and the current President of the Central Florida Brazilian American Chamber of Commerce (CFBACC). A personal injury attorney, she represents clients in cases involving car, motorcycle, and truck accidents, premises liability, wrongful death, and civil rights violations. Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, she holds a law degree from Mackenzie University, an LL.M. from Boston University, and a J.D. from Emory University, with additional training at Harvard Law School. Based in Florida, Caroline combines legal excellence with community leadership, strengthening institutions across Central Florida’s Brazilian-American community.

Portrait of Antonio Martins, CEO of Acontece.com

Antonio Martins

CEO, Acontece.com

Antonio Martins is a prominent marketing and advertising strategist and the Marketing Director of ABI Inter (Brazilian International Press Association). Based in Florida since 1989, he also serves as Art Director at ACM Productions, Publisher and Marketing Director at Acontece Media Group, and co-founder of the Blist App. With a strong background in communication and branding, Antonio has been recognized for his leadership, earning honors such as “Advertiser of the Year” from BAAA and Regional Leader from LIDE Miami. His work continues to bridge cultural connections and drive innovation within the Brazilian-American community.

Portrait of Priscila Triska, CEO of Bis Entertainment

Priscila Triska

CEO, Bis Entertainment

Priscila Triska is a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, recognized as the CEO of Bis Entertainment, a company known for producing high-quality events and content focused on the Brazilian and Latin American markets. Her leadership has been pivotal in organizing large-scale events, music festivals, and entertainment productions for both regional and international audiences. With extensive experience and strategic vision, Priscila is a respected authority in the field, known for connecting artists with audiences in meaningful ways and contributing significantly to the cultural landscape.

Portrait of Laine Furtado, CEO of Linha Aberta Magazine

Laine Furtado

CEO, Linha Aberta Magazine

Laine Furtado is the CEO of Linha Aberta Magazine, a leading publication covering lifestyle, culture, and entertainment, and a trusted source for readers following the latest trends within the Brazilian community. Her editorial direction has earned the magazine significant acclaim, recognized for curating content that blends cultural insight with contemporary issues. Laine’s leadership has made her a key figure in media, connecting Brazilian and Latin American communities with relevant, engaging content. She also serves as President of the ABI Inter (Brazilian International Press Association), further solidifying her influence in the media industry.

Portrait of Alex Columbine, CEO of Jornal dos Sports

Alex Columbine

CEO, Jornal dos Sports

Alex Columbine is the CEO of Jornal dos Sports, a historic Brazilian sports newspaper, and a member of the Associação Brasileira de Imprensa (ABI), the Brazilian Press Association. His leadership has kept the publication relevant in an ever-changing media landscape, particularly within sports journalism. Alex is known for his dedication to preserving the legacy of sports journalism in Brazil while adapting to new media trends. His involvement with ABI reflects his broader commitment to the media community, where he advocates for journalistic integrity and a free press.

Portrait of Fernanda Linhares, Entrepreneur

Fernanda Linhares

Entrepreneur

Fernanda Linhares is a visionary entrepreneur, educator, and leader in the beauty and professional education sector, bridging licensing and training systems between Brazil and the United States. She is the Founder and President of Wonderful Beauty Group, a Florida-based conglomerate encompassing a technical school, an international academy, licensing consulting, and educational programs. Under her leadership, Wonderful Beauty Academy became a prominent Brazilian beauty school in the U.S., officially recognized by Florida’s Commission for Independent Education (CIE). Known for her ethical, compliant, and human-centered approach, Fernanda is a builder of opportunities who transforms lives through education.

Governance

The Role of the Board

The Board of Directors evaluates eligible applications and nominations as part of The America Awards selection process.

Candidates participate in the official evaluation and voting process established for the edition.

Candidates who receive a minimum of 3 affirmative votes are considered selected.

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