About Claudia

Claudia Fernandes is an entrepreneur, business and community leader with more than 20 years of experience across the public, private, business and community sectors.

Originally from São Tomé and Príncipe and based in the United Kingdom, Claudia is the Founder and Director of the organisations and businesses within S Group and an equal partner in Restaurante Casa Arte e Cultura.

Her professional experience spans business development, leadership, project and programme management, human resources, performance analysis, tourism development, training, community engagement and international partnership building.

Through S Group, Claudia brings together businesses and social-impact initiatives operating across tourism, childcare, training, business development and community development.

Her approach is based on the belief that sustainable businesses and strong communities can develop together through collaboration, responsible investment and meaningful partnerships.

​

Restaurante Casa Arte e Cultura

Claudia is an equal partner in Restaurante Casa Arte e Cultura, alongside Belmira Fernandes and founder Adi.

The restaurant was founded by Adi and has subsequently developed through the partnership of the three partners, who work together to strengthen its commercial operations and its role within the wider development of the São Nicolau community.

Casa Arte e Cultura is more than a restaurant. It promotes local food and products, creates economic opportunities and provides a welcoming point for visitors experiencing São Nicolau.

The restaurant is also an important component of the São Nicolau Project – Nature • Culture • Community, connecting hospitality with community-based tourism, local guides, arts and crafts, education, environmental awareness and local economic development.

​

Leadership Across S Group

While Claudia provides strategic leadership across the organisations she founded, S Group operates through collaboration.

Belmira Fernandes, Francisco Silva, Leonardo Vilhete and other members of the leadership team also contribute their professional experience and expertise across S Group companies and projects where appropriate.

Each business and organisation maintains its own legal identity, governance and responsibilities. This collaborative model allows the wider Group to share knowledge, experience, networks and resources while maintaining appropriate accountability.

One Vision, Multiple Areas of Impact

Through S Group and its network of businesses, organisations and partnerships, Claudia's work connects:

Tourism • Business • Education • Training • Childcare • Community Development • Social Impact • International Partnerships

The objective across these activities is consistent:

Connecting people. Developing opportunities. Creating sustainable impact.