Professor Paul Heritage awarded Rio de Janeiro’s highest civic honour for arts-led social impact

The distinction recognises decades of PPP’s research-led collaborations with artists, communities and public institutions in Brazil—work that has informed policy, supported social justice initiatives and advanced Queen Mary’s mission to deliver research with public benefit. 

Professor Paul Heritage commented:  

“I am overwhelmed and humbled to be awarded the Pedro Ernesto Medal. The city of Rio de Janeiro and its transformative arts practices have run through my veins for over thirty years. This award is a recognition not only of the achievements of People’s Palace Projects but the unwavering support I have received from my colleagues at Queen Mary University of London, particularly within the School of the Arts. It is a collective award for all of us.” 

In addition to the Pedro Ernesto Medal, Professor Heritage received the title of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) from the British Crown this year, in recognition of his contribution to cultural relations between the UK and Brazil. He previously received the Brazilian Order of Rio Branco in 2004 for the same achievements. 

Representing the UK Government, the British Consul-General in Rio, Anjum Noorani, said:  

“Paul is not only a Professor of Drama at Queen Mary University of London. He is a visionary, a tireless advocate for the transformative power of the arts. British Consuls come and go in Rio de Janeiro, but the one who always stays is Paul Heritage.”  

Find out more about the Pedro Ernesto Medal award ceremony.