Luís de Camões, José Saramago, and Fernando Pessoa are just a few of the great Portuguese writers who have published true literary masterpieces in the Portuguese language. The works of these and other authors have withstood the test of time and continue to attract new readers every day.
To keep the Portuguese language alive and active in Canada, the First Portuguese Canadian Cultural Centre in Toronto offers language and cultural classes for children and teens aged three to fifteen. Currently, around 55 students are divided into three groups that meet on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Centre’s operations director, Carina Paradela, explains that this is the only school in Toronto affiliated with the Camões Institute. Additionally, the teachers are certified in Portugal. “At the moment, we have two teachers who have been with us for over 35 years, and one who joined our team in the past two years,” she said.
Beyond teaching the language, the faculty is dedicated to sharing Portuguese culture, traditions, and customs with the students. “Learning about our traditions and customs is part of a well-rounded education,” Carina explains. Students learn the Portuguese national anthem, take part in Portugal Day parades, and are continuously exposed to Portuguese culture during their classes.
Carina believes that learning Portuguese, along with its culture and traditions, is becoming increasingly important for new generations of Portuguese descendants growing up in Canada. She points out that many parents who enroll their children in the classes no longer speak Portuguese at home, which significantly reduces the opportunities for their children to practice the language.
“Here, they can learn and practice with their classmates and teachers, build a foundation, and gain the confidence to speak Portuguese when they go on vacation to Portugal. And, of course, it also prepares them for a professional future where speaking Portuguese will always be a valuable asset.”
— Carina Paradela
The Portuguese Cultural Centre is a charitable, non-profit organization that has been serving the Portuguese community and their families in the Greater Toronto Area for over 60 years.
Founded on September 23, 1956, it was the first Portuguese cultural centre in North America. Today, it is home to the Portuguese Language School, the Seniors Centre, and the Little First & Learning Centre.
Throughout the week, the centre offers activities that benefit both body and mind, such as fitness classes, painting, and games. The mission of the First Portuguese Canadian Cultural Centre is to promote and provide services, educational programs, and recreational activities to the community, including seniors, children, youth, and adults.
For more information, visit www.firstportuguese.com or follow the Portuguese Cultural Centre on Instagram and Facebook.
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