Our 2026 Honorary Graduate: Paula Alves de Souza

Our honorary graduate for this year is Paula Alves de Souza, a renowned diplomat. 

After graduating from Richmond American University London in 1989, Paula Alves de Souza earned a Master’s degree in International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and joined the Brazilian Foreign Service. During her diplomatic career, she served at the Brazilian Embassies in Washington, Buenos Aires, and Beijing. In Brasília, she headed the Department for Audiovisual Promotion, helping to expand the international presence of Brazilian film and audiovisual production abroad. 

In 2016, she was appointed Director of the Cultural and Educational Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In this role, she was responsible for Brazil’s international cooperation in culture and education, including the promotion of the Portuguese language abroad and partnerships with educational institutions around the world. She also played a key role in the creation of the Instituto Guimarães Rosa, Brazil’s network for cultural and educational outreach overseas. 

In December 2022, she was appointed Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Brazil to UNESCO, taking up her post in Paris in March 2023. 

She is being awarded a Doctor of International Relations (Honoris Causa), in recognition of her outstanding contribution to international diplomacy, cultural relations, and public service, as well as a distinguished career representing Brazil on the global stage. Paula’s career exemplifies the values of perseverance, global citizenship, and public service that we seek to instill in our students at Richmond, and her achievements will continue to inspire future generations. 

We look forward to welcoming her at graduation on the Sunday 28^th  June at the Richmond Theatre.