WASHINGTON, D.C. — October 6, 2026 — Brazilian marketing and AI strategist Leo Lyra received two honors from the Brazilian Academy of Sciences, Arts, History and Literature (ABRASCI) during a ceremony held in Washington, D.C. on Monday evening: the Professional Merit Commendation diploma and the “América 250” Commemorative Medal.
The honors recognize Lyra’s contributions at the intersection of marketing, applied artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship, work he has developed over nearly a decade advising businesses in Brazil and the United States.
“It is an honor that belongs to everyone who trusted my work along the way,” Lyra said during the ceremony. “Technology changed everything, but what makes a business grow is still human. Receiving this recognition in Washington, in a year when the United States celebrates 250 years, makes it even more meaningful.”
The ceremony gathered members of the Brazilian diaspora, academics, and community leaders in a celebration of the cultural and institutional ties between Brazil and the United States — a fitting stage for honors that bridge both countries.
A bridge between Brazil and the United States
Born in Brasília and based in Orlando, Florida since 2018, Lyra built his career as a growth strategist helping entrepreneurs navigate digital transformation. He is the author of A Revolução Digital (The Digital Revolution), a book on marketing strategy whose English edition was accepted into the Orlando public library collection, and is preparing a revised and expanded second edition focused on artificial intelligence.
Lyra also serves as Director of Marketing and AI at the Global Chamber of Commerce in Orlando, where he connects Brazilian and American businesses, and leads a consulting practice advising companies on positioning, offers, and AI adoption.
His professional concept, “IA com alma” (AI with soul) reflects a central thesis of his work: that technology should serve people rather than replace human connection. “My work has always been about connecting pieces — people, ideas, opportunities,” Lyra added. “This recognition tells me I’m on the right path.”
The honors
The Professional Merit Commendation (Comenda de Mérito Profissional) is awarded by ABRASCI to professionals whose careers demonstrate distinguished service in their fields. The “América 250” Commemorative Medal marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, celebrating cultural and institutional ties between the Americas.
ABRASCI — the Academia Brasileira de Ciências, Artes, História e Literatura — is a Brazilian cultural institution dedicated to recognizing achievement across science, arts, history, and literature, honoring individuals whose trajectories contribute to professional, cultural, and social life.
What’s next
Lyra continues to expand his work across both countries, with upcoming projects including the launch of the second edition of his book, new AI-focused training programs for entrepreneurs, and initiatives connecting the Brazilian business community in Central Florida with American partners.
For more information, visit https://leonardolyra.com/bio or follow @leolyra1 (https://www.instagram.com/leolyra1) on Instagram.
About Leo Lyra
Leonardo Alves Lyra de Castilho, known professionally as Leo Lyra, is a Brazilian marketing and AI strategist based in Orlando, Florida. He advises entrepreneurs and companies on growth strategy, positioning, and applied artificial intelligence, and serves as Director of Marketing and AI at the Global Chamber of Commerce Orlando. He is the author of A Revolução Digital / The Digital Revolution.
Media contact: https://leonardolyra.com/bio
