The Waterbury Times|Oct 17, 2026

Waterbury- Julia Pimentel’s story is one of perseverance, family, and a lifelong commitment to helping others. Born in Ribeira Brava on the Cape Verdean island of São Nicolau, she came to the United States in 1988 at age 19, seeking greater opportunities for herself and her family. She settled in Waterbury in 1990, where she has spent more than 35 years building a life rooted in hard work, cultural pride, and community service.

The oldest of four children, Julia lost her father at age 11. Her mother, Maria da Luz Pimentel, raised the family through hardship, instilling in her children the values of generosity, education, and service to others. Julia carried those lessons with her when she became the first member of her family to immigrate to the United States, eventually helping her mother, siblings, nieces and nephews, and eldest son make the journey as well.

For 35 years, Julia worked at Seidel, a Waterbury manufacturing company, beginning as a quality control inspector and advancing to customer service and scheduling manager, reporting directly to the company’s CEO. She remained dedicated to the company until its closure. Throughout her career, she also helped fellow Cape Verdeans find employment, navigate workplace challenges, translate, and access resources such as unemployment benefits.

Her commitment to Waterbury extends well beyond her professional life. A member of the Cape Verdean Social Club of Waterbury since 1990, Julia became an officer in 2017 and has served as treasurer, overseeing finances and helping organize community events. She has also been a member of the Cape Verdean Women’s Association for 30 years and is a longtime member of Our Lady of Fatima Church.

Julia’s dedication to service reflects the example set by her mother, who raised four children as a single parent despite poverty and the absence of a formal education. Maria built a business, prioritized her children’s education, opened her home to those in need, cared for the sick and elderly, and helped others pursue opportunities abroad.

Today, Julia is proud to represent Waterbury’s Cape Verdean community and the traditions that have remained central to her family. As a wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and grandmother, she hopes to pass on to future generations the importance of supporting others, giving back, and remaining connected to the community.

Julia dedicates her honor as Waterbury’s Mayor for the Day to her late mother, whose compassion, sacrifice, and example continue to guide her life.

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