Sílvia Padinha became the face, voice, and driving force behind the fight for the Culatra Island community’s right to remain on the land their ancestors once called home.
It was a lifelong battle. But now, with their homes finally legalised, the Residents’ Association is focused on an even greater goal: transforming Culatra Island into a fully self-sustainable community by 2035, rooted in its identity and local resources.
“We are a pilot project, and who knows? Perhaps our experience can be replicated elsewhere,” says Sílvia.
An oyster farmer, Sílvia has given visibility and purpose to a once-forgotten fishing community, isolated on a barrier island facing Olhão. Today, the focus is on circular economy and energy transition, paving the way for a better future in harmony with the Ria Formosa.
