Andrew Câmara is a two-time MARTY Awards nominee for his contributions to the arts and cultural activity in Mississauga. His parents, Maria and Joseph Câmara immigrated from São Miguel and established themselves in Mississauga in 1974. Andrew Câmara has two older twin sisters, Angie and Pauline. Realizing at a young age that he had an aptitude and desire to create and work with his hands, Andrew took a cosmetology course in high school and entered the field in 2002. Andrew is passionate about volunteer work, which has transcended the Portuguese community. A “huge advocate for youth, culture and community building,” he has been involved at the Portuguese Cultural Centre of Mississauga (PCCM) since his days as a student at the Centre’s Portuguese school. He is a past president of the Karate Youth Group, has hosted the Miss PCCM pageant and Carassauga, and continues to volunteer as the rehearser/choreographer for the Centre’s folklore group. Most recently, Andrew organized a record breaking event—Largest Portuguese folk dance. The new Guinness World Record—747 people dancing the Portuguese folklore dance “O Vira.” for 7 minutes— belongs now to the Canada’s Portuguese community, thanks in large part to Andrew’s efforts. Andrew Câmara is proud of his Portuguese roots, and his volunteer work in the Portuguese community stands as an example for the younger generation.
