UB Student Highlights Cultural Similarities Between The Bahamas and Brazil Through Pineapples

5^th May 2026

Nassau, THE BAHAMAS – Bahamians have a love affair with the delectably sweet pineapple, a fruit woven into many Bahamian traditions of hospitality, celebration, and identity, like the annual Pineapple Festival in Eleuthera, home of the “Hawaiian Pineapple.”  From the fields of Eleuthera to vibrant communities across Brazil, the pineapple draws locals and visitors alike into a celebration of heritage and pride.

This shared connection became the focus of recent international recognition for a University of The Bahamas (UB) student, Katlyn Rolle, sparked by her academic curiosity and love of foreign languages. A Spanish major with a growing fascination for Brazilian Portuguese, Katlyn uncovered parallels between the Bahamian and Brazilian cultures during her studies this Spring semester, finding that the pineapple is deeply rooted in both societies.

As part of her work for the Introduction to Brazilian Portuguese course, she researched this connection and produced a compelling video narrative that earned a second-place finish at the inaugural North American contest, “O Brasil e Eu – Tudo Junto e Misturado” held in Pittsburgh in the U.S. The project was funded by the Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Pittsburgh and the Middlebury Portuguese School.

Her research revealed how the pineapple symbolizes warmth and welcome, from family gatherings to national festivals, in both The Bahamas and Brazil.

“I found it really exciting that both of these countries have entire festivals surrounding this fruit, especially as someone who has family ties to Eleuthera,” said Katlyn, reflecting on the personal connection that shaped this project.

She said she was pleasantly surprised at earning second place and credited her professors for encouraging her to participate and pursue opportunities beyond the classroom.

“I feel incredibly honoured to receive the award for second place in this competition, and I’m grateful for having this opportunity to show how two countries so far apart from each other can have cultural ties,” she added.

According to Professor Caio Christiano, Katlyn’s Portuguese professor, who encouraged her to enter the contest, Katlyn’s video received a standing ovation at the festival.

“Katlyn’s creativity, authenticity, and unique perspective on Brazilian culture truly stood out among many inspiring submissions from other North American universities participating in the Leitorado Guimarães Rosa programme,” noted Professor Christiano, adding that her work made a meaningful contribution to a broader celebration of culture through her authorial voice.

In addition to UB, competitors also came from Simon Fraser University in Canada and Johns Hopkins University, University of Pittsburgh and University of Chicago in the U.S.

Dean of Liberal and Fine Arts at UB, Dr. Craig Smith expressed enthusiasm about the growing collaborations that foster student success as the university seeks to expand its programme offerings.

“We are proud of Katlyn’s achievements and excited about the development of the Brazilian Portuguese programme at UB. We welcome partnerships that open the door to these kinds of experiential leaning opportunities,” Dr. Smith said.

Katlyn’s success highlights growing interest in Brazilian studies at UB. UB has two Portuguese language classes (PORT 103 and 104) and has an increasing number of enrolled students. Although it is not yet a full programme, there are plans in the near future for a Minor in Portuguese to be offered. Until then, the two general education courses are providing students with invaluable exposure to Lusophone culture and language, opening doors to a variety of unique academic and international opportunities.

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