The New American Dream Foundation has announced the honorees and scholarship recipients for its 2026 American Dream Awards Gala, presented by Ventura Law.

The gala will take place on Friday, Oct. 16, at The Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury. This year’s celebration will mark the 25th anniversary of the Portuguese Cultural Center and honor five leaders who helped create an institution that has served the region for a quarter-century.

For one evening, The Amber Room will become “Little Portugal,” with Portuguese food, music, dance, and cultural traditions.

“Every immigrant community is built upon the courage and determination of pioneers who create opportunities for those who follow,” said Celia Bacelar Palmares, president of The New American Dream Foundation. “This year’s honorees embody that spirit of leadership, service, and perseverance.”

“As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Portuguese Cultural Center, we also celebrate the students, community leaders, and organizations who continue to redefine the American Dream for future generations,” she added.

Five community leaders will receive the Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award for their roles in establishing the Portuguese Cultural Center.

Augie Ribeiro, its first president, guided the newly unified organization during its early years. Ray Boa, the Center’s first vice president, helped establish the leadership structure needed to move the project forward.

Joe Boa, president of the Sons of Portugal and fundraising chair for the Portuguese Cultural Center, led efforts to unite the community and raise the money needed to make the project possible.

Francisco Bahia, president of the Portuguese American Club, helped bring established Portuguese organizations together behind a common goal.

The late Antonio Fernandes chaired the Portuguese Cultural Center Building Committee and oversaw the work that turned the community’s plans into a permanent cultural home. His wife, Helen Fernandes, will accept the award in his memory.

State Sen. Julie Kushner will receive the American Dream Champion Award for her leadership and advocacy on behalf of working families, immigrants, seniors, and the Greater Danbury community.

The Community Hero Award will go to Families Network of Western Connecticut, Inc. The Danbury-based nonprofit has spent decades supporting parents and children through education, prevention, early intervention, and family support programs.

The evening will also recognize four students receiving $3,000 American Dream Scholarships.

Julia Pereira, a Brazilian American student inspired by her parents’ immigrant journey, plans to become an immigration attorney and help families navigate the immigration system.

Gussi Angelina Vera Cajas came to the United States from Ecuador and restarted her education in a new country. She is studying biology and plans to attend dental school.

After fleeing the war in Ukraine, Maksym Pshenianikov balanced school with employment while rebuilding his life in the United States. He plans to pursue a career in cybersecurity.

Suyun Han immigrated from China and works several jobs while attending college. She is completing an accelerated nursing program at Western Connecticut State University and hopes to provide compassionate patient care.

Since its creation, the American Dream Scholarship Program has awarded more than $90,000 to immigrant and first-generation students.

Portuguese vocalist Sonia Bettencourt will headline the evening’s entertainment. Bettencourt performs in English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish. Her musical background includes singing with several choirs in Portugal, including Coro de Santo Amaro de Oeiras.

Inspired by Fado legend Amália Rodrigues, Bettencourt became a Fado artist in 2014. She released her first album, “Fado Meu,” in 2018. Its title track received the International Portuguese Music Award for Best Fado Performance.

Rancho Folclórico Filhos de Portugal will also perform, bringing traditional Portuguese dances, colorful costumes, and live music to the ballroom.

The gala is the Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser. Proceeds will benefit Mission Health Day, the New American Dream Community Resource Center, the Immigrant Family Emergency Fund, and the Senior Hot Meal Program.

Individual tickets are $200. Sponsorship opportunities are also available to businesses, organizations, and individuals. For tickets, sponsorship details or additional information, visit www.AmericanDreamGala.com.