On Thursday, March 5th, 2026, the Federation of Portuguese Canadian Business & Professionals (FPCBP) proudly hosted its 19th Annual International Women’s Day Luncheon at Casa dos Açores do Ontário in Toronto. Under the theme Give To Gain, the afternoon brought together leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and community advocates to celebrate and elevate the women who inspire and strengthen our communities every day.
The event was a beautiful reminder that giving is not a subtraction but an act of intentional multiplication. When we give through time, mentorship, advocacy, and support, we create real opportunities for women to thrive. And when women thrive, our communities grow stronger.
We were honoured and grateful to welcome Marlene Soares-Atzori as this year’s Keynote Speaker. With over 35 years in finance and a career built on bridging communities across borders and languages, Marlene embodies the spirit of Give To Gain in every sense. Her lifelong dedication to supporting women’s causes, community organizations, and the Portuguese-Canadian community made her an exceptional voice for this year’s theme. Marlene’s powerful and moving address set the tone for an afternoon of meaningful connection and reflection, leaving a lasting impression on all who were present.
This year also marked our third consecutive year partnering with the Purse Project York Region. Guests were invited to bring a new or gently used purse or bag, along with personal care items, to support women in need across our communities. We are proud to continue this partnership and grateful to everyone who contributed. Your generosity is a living expression of this year’s theme.
The FPCBP Board of Directors extends its heartfelt thanks to all who helped make this event a success. Our members and guests brought the afternoon to life with their presence and engagement. The continued support and gracious presence of the Consul-General of Portugal in Toronto, Dr. Ana Luísa Riquito, means more to this community than words can express. Suzanne Da Cunha and her wonderful team at Casa dos Açores do Ontário provided the warm hospitality and beautiful space that gave this celebration the home it deserved. Europa Catering delivered an exceptional experience that contributed to an afternoon none of us will soon forget. To our sponsors, whose generosity made this event possible, and to our media partners for sharing this celebration with the broader Portuguese-speaking community, we are deeply grateful.
Proceeds from the event continue to support the FPCBP Scholarship Program, recognizing academic excellence and investing in the next generation of leaders within our community. The impact of this afternoon extends well beyond March 5th, and it is felt in every student we are able to support.
We are already looking forward to 2027, and to continuing to celebrate a community that has once again shown, wholeheartedly, that when we give, we gain.
Watch the event coverage: FPCBP celebra o 19.º Almoço Anual dedicado ao Dia Internacional da Mulher | FPTV
View the full photo gallery from the event: IWD 2026 Photo Gallery
Photography by: E-Motions Photography
