They are barely 9 years old, but Goan twins Rachel and Troy Dias who are based in Dubai are on separate missions to promote the love for environment and reading among schoolchildren in Goa
PANAJI
In a remarkable display of initiative and community spirit, 9-year-old primary school student based in Dubai has launched a children’s library at Holy Spirit Institute in Margao by transforming a part of the Senior library, aiming to promote literacy and a love for reading amongst students.
This library project set up by Rachel Dias is part of the ‘Books for All’ initiative of her Rachel Foundation that she started in May 2023.
Besides being inspired by her own love of reading, Rachel had noticed a lack of reading resources for children in various schools that she visited across Goa.
THE PROJECT
Rachel was motivated by her own experiences with reading and recognised that many of her younger peers lacked access to engaging books.
“I know how important books are to me. I wanted to make sure kids here had the same opportunity,” said Rachel.
More books for kids will be added by Rachel to the library every time she visits Goa.
Besides donating her own books, Rachel reached out to friends for book donations.
Over the summer, Rachel launched a book drive, reaching out to friends at the swimming pool and on the social media of her mother, Remediana (Remy) Rodrigues, for support.
Her efforts resulted in an impressive collection of over 500 books, spanning various genres and reading levels.
“Many thanks to Tanisha from Indian High School, Stephan from The Kings School Barsha, Pranava Rakshika from Woodlem Park School for their donation,” said Rachel.
THE LIBRARY INITIATIVE
With the help of the Holy Spirit Institute School Headmistress, Esmeralda Mendes e Fernandes and the school librarian, the reading space was organised, categorising the books and creating a cosy reading nooks.
“It’s not just about the books; it’s about creating a welcoming environment where students can enjoy reading,” Rachel added.
[From L to R], Rachel Dias, School Manager and Parish Priest Fr Amandio Valadares, former headmistress Celine Menezes, Headmistress of Holy Spirit Institute Esmeralda Mendes and PTA Chairperson Antonette Dias.
Margao Parish Priest and School Manager Fr Amandio Valadares praised Rachel’s dedication.
“This library is a wonderful addition to our school. It not only enhances our resources but also encourages students to read for pleasure,” he remarked.
Also present on the occasion were the Asst Headmistress Sarina Lopes e Mascharenas, Librarian Flossy Abranches, PTA Chairperson Antonetta Dias, PTA Treasurer Centia D’Cunha, PTA Executive member Ninotchka Luis, former headmistress Celine Menezes, Former Students Association President Osvy Da Costa, other staff members and students.
The school headmistress spoke on the occasion and informed that their school library has good books and that, she along with the help of the Librarian were making a conscious effort to see that students use the books and improve their reading skills.
She too expressed her gratitude to the Rachel Foundation for their generosity towards inculcating this good practice by donating books to the school library and assured that the students will make the best use of the books.
Rachel Dias, School Manager and Parish Priest Fr Amandio Valadares, former headmistress Celine Menezes, Headmistress of Holy Spirit Institute Esmeralda Mendes, PTA Chairperson Antonette Dias along with some staff and students at Holy Spirit Institute, Margao.
The school headmistress expressed her support to the initiative, noting its positive impact on the school community.
“Rachel's dedication to fostering a love for reading is inspiring. This library will provide a much-needed resource for our students,” said Esmeralda Mendes e Fernandes.
She further stated, “Our existing library with its educational resources promotes literacy collaboration and creativity among senior students. And this addition of kids' books will further enhance our reading resources and spread the love of reading. I am excited to see the positive influence it will have on students’ literacy and learning experiences. And also, how it will serve the community here.”
FUTURE PLANS
Through her hard work and passion, Rachel has created a lasting impact at Holy Spirit Institute in Margao, proving that one student’s vision can inspire a whole community.
Rachel plans to host online story reading/literacy sessions along with fellow students at her school in Dubai at this school library.
She hopes to expand the library further, aiming to include digital resources in the future. The library aims to promote literacy and foster a love for reading among younger students.
Rachel will also be conducting story reading sessions for primary students at Holy Cross Institute High School, Cavelossim. More sessions are planned at Infant Jesus School, Colva.
THE GOAN | PANAJI
At nine years old, Troy Jose Dias has taken it upon himself to be a voice for the environment in his community.
With a passion for nature and a deep concern for the planet’s future, Troy has embarked on a mission to spread environmental awareness among primary students in Goa.
Troy Dias, Green Ambassador of World Wide Fund for Nature, UAE and Junior Member of Emirates Environment Group, UAE talks about the importance of saving trees and climate change at the Holy Spirit Institute, Margao.
It all began during a school project on ecosystems. Troy learned about the impact of pollution and climate change, and it sparked something within him.
“I was shocked to see how much plastic ends up in the ocean and how it affects marine life,” he said.
THE PROJECT
Determined to make a difference, he started creating awareness about reducing the use of plastic.
His efforts quickly grew. He organised a ‘Clean-Up Day’ at a park in Dubai, inviting a few of his classmates and neighbours to participate.
Armed with gloves and garbage bags, they collected trash and recyclables, turning the event into a fun, community-building experience. Troy even made posters to promote the event, showcasing his artistic talents alongside his commitment to the environment.
His efforts fortified after he became the Green Ambassador for World Wide Fund for Nature in UAE. He is also an active member of the Emirates Environment Group that trains students to execute environment-friendly projects in their community.
THE ECOLOGY INITIATIVE
But Troy didn’t stop there. He decided to reach out to the primary students in Goa to develop an understanding about recycling, composting, and the importance of reducing waste.
Troy Dias, Green Ambassador of World Wide Fund for Nature, UAE and Junior Member of Emirates Environment Group, UAE, conducts a session for students at St Anthony’s High School, Margao.
Each session included fun activities like crafting with recycled materials, understanding food loss through creating food with recyclable leftover and planting seeds.
“I want everyone to understand that even small actions can make a big difference,” Troy explained.
His commitment to environmental awareness has not only made a positive impact on the planet but has also fostered a sense of responsibility and unity among his peers.
He enjoyed doing his sessions at Holy Spirit Institute, Margao and St Anthony’s High School, Margao. He will be conducting sustainability sessions at Holy Cross School, Cavelossim.
FUTURE PLANS
As Troy continues his journey, he dreams of starting a blog to share tips on living sustainably and to reach even more people.
His message is clear: “We all have a part to play in protecting our planet. If we work together, we can create a healthier, happier Earth for everyone. No matter how young you are, you can be a catalyst for change. I want my passion and determination to serve as an inspiration to others, so that every little action counts in the fight for a better environment.”
Incidentally, Troy and his twin sister, Rachel, are award-winning swimmers who hail from Margao and presently studying at a British school in Dubai.
Their father, Terrence, played cricket for Goa, while their mother, Remy, was a former teacher at Manovikas School in Margao.
