The following Cape Verdeans are exceptionally successful in my book. I doubt you'd disagree. In any case, if you know of any other worthy public figure Cape Verdean who should be in this list, please let me know and I will add them.

Francisco Borges

Frank Borges, was born in Txan di Tanki, Santiago Island. He relocated to connecticut at the age of fourteen. Borges was twice elected as treasurer for the state of Connecticut in the late 80's and early 90's. Prior to his electoral triumph, no other Cape Verdean or blackman had ever achieved such high elected position in the state of Connecticut. Presently, Borges is the national treasurer for the NAACP. And he's also chairman and CEO of a law firm named Landmark.

David Soares

David Soares is the current District Attorney of Albany County, New York. David was born in Ponta di Algo, Brava. He emigrated to the United States at the age of ten. Prior to defeating his former boss in the democratic primary and beating a republican challenger in the general election for DA of Albany County, the capital city of New York state, no other Cape Verdean or blackman or woman had ever been elected District Attorney in that city. New York Political pundits call David's victory "the most stunning political upset in the history of New York".

George N. Leighton

George N. Leighton was the first known Cape Verdean in America to have been appointed (by former President Gerald Ford) a federal Judge for the northern district of Illinois. Leighton is a native of New Bedford and a son of Cape Verdean immigrants. He is a graduate of Howard University, the premier HBCU, and of Harvard Univerisity School of Law.

Alfred Gomes

Alfred Gomes was born in Katxas in Brava and immigrated to the United States at the age of Seven with his family. In 1923 he graduated from Boston University school of law at a time when Cape Verdeans were struggling to finish elementary school. During his carrer, Gomes was credited as having been one of the most distinguished attorneys in the state of Massachusetts, again this was at a point in time where few if any Cape Verdeans or American blacks practiced law in the state of Massachusetts.

Cesaria Evora

Cesaria Evora is a native of Sao Vicence island. She's arguably the most well known Cape Verdean in the American art/slash/world music circles. Further, Cesaria is the only Cape Verdean singer to have ever won an emmy award. Cesaria practically put Cape Verde in the map as far "world music" fans are concerned.

How can the young generation be motivated by these role models to pursue higher dreams?

Fundata Magazine's last issue has all this honorable and successful capeverdians and a lot more. I advice anyone to get this last issue.

David Soares and all these great capeverdians mentioned here are on this golden list.