The Regional Director for Youth stated in Horta that "every Euro invested in a good youth project is a well-invested Euro," stressing that the Government of the Azores has been a partner of young people.
 
Lúcio Rodrigues spoke at the ceremony marking the fourth anniversary of AJIFA - Faial Island Youth Association (AJIFA). On the occasion, he congratulated this "young youth association" for its "work and commitment to develop initiatives of great interest to young Azoreans," noting "the very interesting parallel between this association and real life.”
 
"Despite being a young association, AJIFA has already demonstrated its quality and maturity in its projects, which is something that I find among our young people. They are also able to organise themselves, move forward and present innovative, mature and useful ideas for our society," said Lucio Rodrigues.
 
In this regard, the government official emphasised the fact that this association "takes on challenges" such as the organisation of "C(H)orta," a short-film festival that has gained prominence in the regional and national scene. Moreover, he mentioned the "Craziest Descent to Castelo Branco Port," a rolling cart contest, and "trike bike," an activity held on occasion of St. Peter festivities.
 
"The Azorean Government, through the Regional Directorate for Youth and its other departments, has been a partner of young people. This is why we consider that every Euro invested in youth is just that: an investment and not a cost," stated Lúcio Rodrigues.
 
At the ceremony, which featured the participation of young comedian Helder Medeiros, known as "Helfimed," the "Young Merit of Faial" prizes were awarded to athlete Sílvio Nogueira and to researchers Jácome Armas and Nuno Moniz.
 
Two innovative projects, led by young natives of Faial, were also distinguished in the area of Gastronomy and Tourism: "Ah! Boca Santa" foodtruck by Joana Cardoso and the "Azul Singular" glamping park by Pedro Rosa and Antónia Reis, an innovative concept in the hotel sector.