Inspired by the legacy of courage, generosity, and vision of Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, the Dona Antónia Awards return for their 37th edition and once again celebrate exceptional Portuguese women. This year, Marlene Vieira joins the ranks of “Ferreirinha Women” as the recipient of the Breakthrough Award.
Created in 1988 by Dona Antónia’s descendants and Sogrape, these awards have honored women who, like the legendary “Ferreirinha,” are examples of determination and entrepreneurship and who contribute to the country’s economic, social, and cultural development. Since 2014, the initiative has annually recognized women who embody the values and character traits of Dona Antónia.
“The Dona Antónia Awards are much more than mere recognition. They are a symbol of human and female empowerment, aligned with the third pillar of our Global Sustainability Program, ‘Seed the Future,’ which aims to inspire happier and more responsible lives. They are a tribute to women of all times, whose journeys and work are rooted in inspiration from the past, the realities of the present, and a vision of a better future. These are women who stand the test of time, with projects that surprise, inspire, and endure forever. Each one, in her own way, embodies the courage to dream and the strength to make those dreams a reality—values that Dona Antónia left us as a timeless legacy and that Sogrape honors each year with a deep sense of responsibility,” says Mafalda Guedes, Director of Corporate Communications and Sustainability at Sogrape and a member of the fourth generation of the founding family.
Marlene Vieira, a chef who has established herself as one of the most prominent voices in Portuguese gastronomy, was honored with the Rising Star Award. Balancing tradition and innovation, Marlene has elevated Portuguese cuisine with authenticity, creativity, and resilience; she was awarded a Michelin Star in 2025, blazing new trails in the restaurant industry and inspiring a new generation of women entrepreneurs.