Team

Maria Joao Rodrigues de Araujo 

Maria Joao is a Commander of the Order of Prince Henry (National Order of Portugal), awarded by His Excellency the President of Portugal, and a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, awarded by His Majesty King Charles III.

She is a Fellow in Music at the University of Oxford, and the President of Portugal-UK 650, whose Patrons are His Majesty King Charles III and His Excellency the President of Portugal. Portugal-UK 650 involves 215 partner institutions, with whom more than 300 projects and activities have been organized. These include high profile events at Buckingham Palace and St James’s Palace attended by HM King Charles III, HE The President of Portugal, the British Foreign Secretary, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Portugal, the Chief of Defence Staff, Their Royal Highnesses The Dukes of Braganza and others. Previous appointments include Royal Opera House Senior Research Fellow at the University of Oxford, Faculty of Music and Christ Church College; and Director of Education and Research at Casa da Música in Oporto.

She is a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Music from the University of Oxford, Christ Church College. She holds a Bachelor of Music (BMus Hons) from the University of London, King’s College; and a ‘Licenciatura’ Degree (four-year undergraduate degree) in Music Sciences from the University Nova of Lisbon. She is a Dame of the Holy Sepulchre and a Dame of the Order of Malta, an organization which conducts humanitarian projects in 120 countries.

“Since my teenage years, I have been volunteering and lending my skills to international humanitarian organizations. ANDI stands out globally for its unique culture and strategic vision, which seamlessly blends education, activation, transformational action, and solidarity. My passion for ANDI runs deep. Witnessing the profound and lasting impact of its work on people’s lives worldwide—their smiles and the enduring benefits they enjoy—brings me immense joy. I encourage you to get involved too. By joining hands, we can amplify its mission and empower individuals to realize their fullest potential, creating a brighter and more compassionate future for all.”