Portuguese Author Teresa Nicolau captivated by Pakistan’s cultural heritage

Celina Ali

Islamabad: Teresa Nicolau, the esteemed Portuguese author and journalist, has expressed her admiration for Pakistan, calling it a country vibrant with life, youthful energy, and a rich cultural heritage.

In an interview at the residence of Portuguese Ambassador Frederico Silva, Nicolau shared her deep appreciation for Pakistan, highlighting the warmth of its people and the country’s diverse cultural landscape.

“Pakistan has won my heart,” Nicolau remarked. She was particularly struck by the genuine hospitality shown to her by the Pakistani people. “The kindness and warmth of the people here are extraordinary. My interactions with the locals have left a lasting impression,” she said.

Nicolau also emphasized Pakistan’s potential as a tourist destination, noting its breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, and the wide variety of cultures across the nation. From the stunning mountains to the ancient ruins, she described Pakistan’s natural beauty and historical significance as unparalleled.

Among her many observations, Nicolau was especially impressed by the country’s youth. “The young people here are full of talent, passion, and creativity. They are the future, not only for Pakistan but for the world,” she added, recognizing the immense potential within Pakistan’s younger generation.

Nicolau’s admiration for Pakistan was so strong that she eagerly anticipates returning. “I am certain I will be back,” she said. “There is so much more to explore—its people, its culture, and its beauty.”

Her fondness for Pakistan didn’t stop at its cultural richness; she also expressed a great appreciation for the country’s food. “The food here is full of life,” Nicolau said. “The spices give the dishes such depth of flavor. It’s something I will truly miss when I leave.”

Beyond her observations about Pakistan’s landscapes, people, and cuisine, Nicolau sees the country as one brimming with untapped potential—both in its citizens and its cultural legacy. She hopes to contribute to fostering stronger cultural and literary connections between Portugal and Pakistan in the future.

Teresa Nicolau, born in Bombarral, Portugal in 1973, is a well-known figure in the Portuguese cultural scene. She currently serves as the Director of Culture at the Santa Casa da Misericórdia in Lisbon, where she oversees a variety of cultural projects.

Nicolau’s career in journalism spans over two decades. She worked at RTP (Radio and Television of Portugal) from 1996 to 2023, where she held the position of Art and Culture Editor. She also created and hosted the popular program As Horas Extraordinárias, which aired on RTP3 from 2015 to 2023. Additionally, Nicolau contributed her voice to the daily column As Horas Extraordinárias on Antena 1 between 2021 and 2023. For her work in cultural journalism, she received the Pro-Author Award in 2017 and the Cultural Journalism Award in 2020, both from the Portuguese Society of Authors.

Her academic background is as remarkable as her professional journey. Nicolau holds a degree in Communication Sciences from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Universidade Nova de Lisboa. She furthered her education by studying Film Directing at the New York Film Academy on a scholarship from the Luso-American Foundation for Development. Nicolau also pursued postgraduate studies in Aesthetics and Philosophy of Art at the University of Lisbon, as well as Comparative Studies and Cinema and Television at Universidade Nova de Lisboa. Currently, she is working toward a PhD in Media and Society at Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa, supported by a Merit Scholarship.

Known for her profound understanding of culture and communication, Nicolau uses her platform to engage audiences on social, cultural, and political issues. She firmly believes in the power of literature and media to bridge divides and foster mutual understanding between cultures.

This visit to Pakistan is part of her ongoing efforts to engage in cultural exchanges and literary collaborations. Through her discussions in Islamabad and Lahore, Nicolau hopes to promote greater understanding between Portugal and Pakistan while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of both countries. She is especially eager to connect with the young people of Pakistan and explore the country’s vibrant literary and cultural scenes.