My Trip to São Tomé and Príncipe

Last month, I had the privilege of traveling to one of Africa’s most beautiful and lesser-known destinations, the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. Nestled in the Gulf of Guinea, this two-island country might be small, but it holds an undeniable charm that lingers long after you leave.

My trip to São Tomé and Príncipe was for business, in my new role as spokeswoman for NTL Trust. I traveled there to learn more about the country’s new Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program, an initiative designed to attract responsible global citizens who can contribute to the islands’ sustainable development.

During my trip I met with several business owners, professionals, and government officials involved in shaping this program and the local business ecosystem. What impressed me most was the country’s thoughtful approach. The leadership of São Tomé and Príncipe is deeply aware of the importance of preserving their natural environment and unique culture while opening the door to new economic opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that this program benefits both investors and local communities.

As the official spokeswoman for NTL Trust, a global leader in citizenship and residency solutions, I see my role as more than communicating facts. It’s about translating a country’s vision into a meaningful story that resonates with individuals and families who are seeking global mobility, security, and opportunity. Representing NTL Trust means helping people make informed choices and encouraging a deeper understanding of what responsible citizenship by investment truly means.

In São Tomé and Príncipe, I witnessed the country’s potential firsthand. Beyond its natural beauty and biodiversity, the islands possess a sense of authenticity that is increasingly rare in our fast-paced world. The people are welcoming and proud, eager to share their heritage, their cuisine, and their hopes for the future. Conversations with local residents revealed a genuine optimism about the positive impact international investment could bring if guided by transparency and sustainability.

I also took time to appreciate the slower rhythm of island life.. There is something incredibly grounding about São Tomé and Príncipe. It is a place that encourages mindfulness and gratitude, values that align deeply with my own philosophy and the mission I want to carry forward through my work.

As I continue in my new role with NTL Trust, my focus is on fostering meaningful connections between investors and nations that are ready to grow responsibly. The Citizenship by Investment Program of São Tomé and Príncipe represents a new chapter in the country’s development, one that has the potential to open doors for innovation, education, and global collaboration while protecting what makes the islands so special.

For me, this trip was not just another business visit. It was a reminder of why I do what I do. Global citizenship is not just about obtaining a passport or access; it’s about empowerment, shared opportunity, and creating bridges between cultures. São Tomé and Príncipe exemplifies that spirit beautifully.

This journey reaffirmed my belief that progress and preservation can coexist. When done ethically, investment can be a force for good, helping countries strengthen their economies and enabling individuals to participate in global growth in a way that uplifts everyone involved.

As I reflect on my time in São Tomé and Príncipe, I feel inspired and grateful. It was a place that combined natural serenity with a vision for the future, and it reminded me that meaningful change begins when we choose to engage with the world thoughtfully. I am honored to represent NTL Trust during this exciting moment in their history and to share the story of São Tomé and Príncipe with a wider audience eager to learn about emerging destinations with integrity and promise.