Illustrated by Joana Maria Neves

Catarina Eufémia is a symbol of resistance against the brutal Salazar dictatorship which ruled Portugal from 1932-1968. In 1954 she was murdered whilst pregnant and with a baby in her arms at a rural workers strike at the age of 26, whilst fighting for a living wage for herself and her fellow workers. Despite her illiteracy and extreme poverty, she was driven by a courage which only few people had and so after her death she became a martyr of the people against the authoritarian regime in Portugal.

There are so many incredible kick-ass women in the world, stepping up, speaking out and inspiring others with the work they do. Many who are visible, and many who are not. With this project we want to highlight grassroots female role models. So we want to hear from you! Who are the women in your life who makes you think, ‘yeah thats possible’! Women who have started businesses, projects, are fighting for a cause, are making their voices heard. Send us a photo and a small story celebrating the role model in your life to brushandbowinfo@gmail.com and we will turn this into an illustrated piece!

This series is in collaboration with Nomadways