The Goan Community Aberdeen (GCA) has been actively promoting Goan culture and traditions among the Goans settled in Aberdeen-Scotland.
The GCA began operating in 2013 as ‘Aberdeen Goans’ after a group of families came together to celebrate events such as Feasts, Easter, Christmas etc. In September 2022, the GCA decided to register its group as a charity under its new name. Over 200 Goans are estimated to be living in Aberdeen.
The board members are Sydon Fernandes (President), Maria (Dimple) Fernandes (Vice President), Ally Rodrigues (Treasurer), and Laura Fernandes (Secretary). The Youth Coordinator is Savil Da Silva.
“Our aim is to reach out to a wider audience, to promote our Goan culture, traditions, art, and culinary and to improve and advance the lives of those who live and work in the community of Aberdeen and surrounding areas,” said GCA Secretary Laura Fernandes.
“In the past year, we have organised Children's Day celebrations, and Festive & Christmas Jumper day in November and celebrated St Francis Xavier Feast in St Mary's Cathedral Aberdeen in December 2022.”
“The Children's Day was a success as Goan children had fun and intermixed with other children within the community. On Children's day, we organised face painting and prizes for each child so they are happy to receive gifts as part of our community. We also donated to other charities to support community welfare in Aberdeen. Many in our Goan community generously helped and support this by individually donating as per their wishes.”
The GCA has also arranged Zumba and Yoga sessions throughout the year for families at the local community centre and has plans to continue this year too.
“The GCA organises monthly Mass in Konkani and each member can offer donations toward their intentions at the Mass service,” said Laura.
Besides the monthly church services, the GCA has planned a number of social events this year.
“We will organise a Valentine's Day party and dance at the Sportsman's Club on February 11. The food service is ordered from Shahbaz Restaurant in Aberdeen and we plan to have live music which will be performed by the newly formed and upcoming band ‘Octave’ from Aberdeen.”
“We also have DJ music by our young and talented DJ Jeremy and the Emcee is Jean D'Souza. We plan to organise a cupid contest for our Valentine's dance party. The price for each ticket was £12 per adult and £5 per child. This ticket is inclusive of food but drinks would be purchased by individual, all tickets are sold out and we have this event fully booked.”
“Later, we will host the Easter Dine & Dance at The Sportsman's Club on April 9. Other events during the year include St Anthony's Feast on June 13, Our Lady's Birthday on September 8, and St Francis Xavier’s Feast on December 3, which includes a Mass, followed by a dining and dance event,” Laura added.
