The decoration, delivered by Chris Sainty, UK Ambassador to Portugal, took place at the Official Residence in Lisbon. André Jordan’s name thus becomes part of the group of personalities honoured by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“It is with great satisfaction that I award André Jordan the award of Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. This is recognition on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for André Jordan’s outstanding contribution to the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

“I emphasise André’s dedication to the development of young people in Portugal and in the world. And the way he embraced the project launched by the late Duke of Edinburgh creating something truly extraordinary in Portugal.

“We have repeatedly referred to the Old Covenant that unites our two countries. And we can mention several historical treaties and events to demonstrate the solidity of this union. But I believe that it is people who create the special relationship between Great Britain and Portugal. André Jordan is one of those very special people who represent and symbolise this remarkable friendship” said Chris Sainty, UK Ambassador to Portugal.

Founded by the late Duke of Edinburgh in 1956, in Great Britain, the Award is present in 144 countries, has the participation of more than 7 million young people and annually receives 350,000 new participants. Portugal has its national version in the Infante D. Henrique Prize, created in 1987. The Honourable President is the Duke of Bragança and André Jordan was Executive President between 1995 and 2001.