Being born in Brava is a blessing - Armando Madeira

In his reflection, Madeira stressed that supporting music and the community has always been part of his way of being in life, something that, according to him, stemmed from the upbringing he received in the small community of Djabraba, where he was born and raised surrounded by values of solidarity, faith and sharing.

Armando Madeira revealed that, over the course of his career, he has produced four CDs by Cape Verdean artists, all of which have a special meaning for him. Among the names supported are John Miranda, Benvindo Cruz, Quirino do Canto and Darii.

According to Madeira, the aim has never been just to produce music, but also to lend a hand to artists whenever possible.

"I've produced four CDs by artists: John Miranda, Benvindo Cruz, Quirino do Canto and Darii. They all have a special meaning for me. Whenever I could, I sponsored or helped. As far as I can remember, I've always tried to help all my brothers and sisters," he said.

For the Bravense producer, supporting artists is also a way of valuing the talents that emerge from the Cape Verdean community, especially those who carry with them the cultural identity of the islands.

In his message, Armando Madeira recalls that the spirit of mutual help comes from the upbringing he received as a child, marked by community life and the Christian faith.

He recalls the times of the "djada di gredja", an expression that evokes living together and religious formation in the local church, where he learned fundamental values such as solidarity, respect and support for others.

"This is in my DNA, from the education I received at Tchada de Greja in our small community of Djabraba. Since I was a child, I've lived surrounded by great neighbors, friends and family."

Madeira also highlights the decisive role of his family in his upbringing, remembering with gratitude his parents and the family environment that shaped his character.

"I was blessed with a great mother and father, and a wonderful family. My Catholic upbringing, faith and passion for helping each other are part of me."

Spirituality also emerges as one of the pillars of his outlook on life. Armando Madeira recalls the teachings of Padre Pio, a spiritual figure who marked many faithful Catholics.

According to him, the idea that giving to others ultimately brings spiritual and human rewards is something he believes in deeply.

"Padre Pio taught us that the more we give, the more we receive. We receive in many ways, and God will provide and protect us all."

For Madeira, helping is not just a gesture of generosity, but also a form of personal fulfillment. "Helping has always come naturally to me, ever since I can remember."

In addition to faith and community, music occupies a central place in Armando Madeira's life. He considers artistic talent to be a true divine gift.

"As for music, it's my passion. I believe that artists are gifts from God. We all have our special gifts."

For this reason, he says he is always available to collaborate and contribute to cultural initiatives whenever he gets the chance.

Armando Madeira's message ends on a note of family happiness: the recent birth of his grandson, Zayden, an event he describes as another blessing in his life. "Last week we welcomed our new grandson, Zayden. We are blessed."

For the producer, life becomes more meaningful when you share it with others, be it through family, music or supporting the community. "If we can help in any way, we should. I do it for me, because it's one of the best feelings in the world."

At the end of his message, Armando Madeira leaves a statement full of pride for his origins on the island of Brava. "As I said, being born on Brava is a blessing. We are blessed to be from Djabraba."

The statement reflects the deep sense of belonging that many Bravenses in the diaspora maintain for the so-called "Island of Flores", demonstrating that, even far away, the connection to the homeland continues to inspire actions of solidarity, culture and appreciation of Cape Verdean roots.