Cleidiano Silverio da Cunha

Cleidiano Silvério Da Cunha, affectionately known as “Cotinha”, was born on April 5, 1988, in Mantena, Minas Gerais, Brazil. From a young age, he showed remarkable strength and resilience. At six, he moved to Água Doce do Norte to continue his education, but life soon challenged him: at just 11, he lost his father. This painful loss forced him to leave school and support his household, as his mother struggled to keep the family going.

At 19, driven by an unshakable will, he returned to school and completed his high school education. He began working in construction, where he honed his skills, learned to read blueprints, and manage worksites. At 27, he made the brave decision to move to the United States. It wasn’t easy. He started at the bottom as a helper, facing cultural and language barriers—but he never gave up.

Today, he is a General Foreman, having successfully led over 45 construction projects across New York and New Jersey. He leads teams with vision and commitment, proving daily that hard work, discipline, and self-belief open doors.

In 2015, he married Kyviam Da Cunha, his life partner and unwavering supporter. Together, they are proud parents of three children: Antonella (10), Isabela (9), and Gabriel (5).

Cleidiano is a powerful example of perseverance, resilience, and leadership—an immigrant who builds not just structures, but a strong and meaningful future for his family and community.