Alex Figueiredo 

Co-Founder, Co-CEO and Head of Design

Born in New Haven, CT, and raised in Praia, Cabo Verde, Alex Figueiredo has always been passionate about sports and the brands that define them. With a background in Civil Engineering from the Wentworth Institute of Technology, Alex co-founded ISLNDZ to promote and preserve Cape Verdean culture on a global scale. A fan of SL Benfica and an avid futsal and basketball player, Alex values teamwork and integrity as the foundation of ISLNDZ. He is dedicated to building a brand that resonates worldwide while staying true to its roots. 

Filipe Soares

Co-Founder and Innovation Director.

As the Innovation Director at ISLNDZ Filipe plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s strategy while spearheading innovative design and sustainable business practices. At ISLNDZ, Filipe combines a keen eye for creativity and emerging trends with a strategic approach to growth, ensuring the brand stays at the forefront of the fashion industry. With a visionary mindset, Filipe is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of fashion and innovation.

Dennis Silva 

Head of Operations and Marketing

Dennis is the voice and the “make it happen” of ISLNDZ. As a lifelong sports and streetwear enthusiast, Dennis has been passionate about basketball, formula 1 and everything with an engine from an young age. He found the perfect outlet for his passions in ISLNDZ, where he combines his love for sports and fashion with a deep connection to Cabo Verdean culture. After moving to the US for his studies and career, Dennis saw in ISLNDZ an opportunity to keep the vibrant spirit and morabeza of his homeland close to his heart. Through the brand's products, he aims to share this cultural essence, helping others experience the unique lifestyle and warmth of Cabo Verde.

Maira Alexis

Project Coordinator

Maira support ISLNDZ in driving projects and helping bring the brand’s vision to life. Born and raised in a community that values creativity and cultural expression, Maira deeply appreciates ISLNDZ’s commitment to preserving Cabo Verdean culture and identity by merging creativity with purpose. She saw joining ISLNDZ as an exciting opportunity to contribute to the meaningful societal impact these initiatives can have. In addition to her work with ISLNDZ, Maira holds both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She currently works at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, focusing on making cancer care, research and education more accessible to the community.

Sweila Cardoso 

Director of Community Engagement

Born on Santiago Island, Cabo Verde, Sweila immigrated to the U.S. as a teenager and has lived in Brockton ever since. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston College. As the Director of Community Engagement for ISLNDZ and a Jail Diversion Mental Health Clinician with Boston Medical Center, she collaborates with Boston Police on behavioral health calls. Sweila is also an executive member of the Kriola’s Professional Association (KPA). Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, caring for her plants, spending time with loved ones, and attending cultural and music events.

Queency Barbosa 

ISLNDZ Talk Host and PR 

Queency Barbosa is a multifaceted professional who excels in community advocacy and the arts. Born in Boston, MA, and raised in Praia, Cabo Verde, she graduated from UMass Amherst with a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Master’s in Higher Education. As a founding member of the Kriola's Professional Association, she empowers the Cabo Verdean community. Queency’s passion for music led her to join ISLNDZ Sounds in 2021, where she launched her music career. She also hosts ISLNDZ Talk, a podcast that bridges cultural and artistic gaps within the diaspora. 

Aliya Almeida

Model/Website Development & Maintenance

Born in Boston, MA and raised in Sal, Cabo Verde, Aliya is all about mixing creativity, tech and good vibes. After earning her Bachelor’s in Mathematics from Bridgewater State University, she’s now finishing up her Master’s in Computer Science.
Aliya’s journey with the brand started as a top customer, driven by passion and belief in what it stood for. That passion naturally evolved into becoming part of the team, where she now brings fresh ideas, positive energy and real connection to the brand’s community. Outside of school and work, Aliya is passionate about kickboxing, photography and DJing.