FLAD launches essay contest for young Portuguese-Americans within the scope of the 250th anniversary of the Independence of the USA

FLAD has launched the 2026 edition of POV – Point of View, an essay contest aimed at young U.S. citizens of Portuguese descent, which challenges a new generation to reflect on the relationship between Portugal and the United States.

The initiative marks the 250th anniversary of the Independence of the United States, a historic date that also celebrates the more than two centuries of friendship between the two countries. Portugal was among the first nations to recognize American independence and continues to maintain a close and enduring relationship with the United States.

In this context, FLAD invites young Portuguese-Americans to share their perspective on this historical, cultural, and human connection, through an original essay in English. Participants will be able to explore different dimensions of the relationship between Portugal and the United States, including the importance of the 250th anniversary of North American Independence.

The contest is aimed at young people between 18 and 23 years old, citizens of the United States and of Portuguese descent. Essays must be unpublished, written in English and have a maximum of 3,500 characters (including spaces).

Three works will be distinguished. The winner of the first prize will receive $2,000 and will also have the opportunity to see their article published in a Portuguese-American media outlet. The two runners-up will receive $1,000 each.

Applications run from July 4 to September 20, 2026 and must be submitted through FLAD’s online form, accompanied by the essay and the candidate’s resume.

With this initiative, FLAD reinforces its mission to bring new generations of Portuguese-Americans closer to Portugal, promoting knowledge of common history and encouraging the involvement of future leaders of the Portuguese community in the United States.

Application deadline: July 4 to September 20, 2026.

Who can apply: Young people between the ages of 18 and 23, citizens of the United States and of Portuguese descent.

How to participate: Essay and resume submission here.

See the notice of this contest (Notice – POV USA) to know all the details about the award and the application process.