[From L to R] Clayton Barreto, Imtiyaz Shaikh, Lanisha and Delisha Vaz, Lawrence Gomes, Felcy Rebelo and Tommy Alfonso.
LONDON
The newly formed Vasco Goans Association (VGA) in the UK celebrated the feast of their patron St Andrew at the St Anselm’s Church, Southall with a Mass and a social gathering on November 30. A number of people hailing from Vasco and others parts of Goa who are settled in the UK attended the event.
EUCHARISTIC SERVICE
The celebration began with a Eucharistic celebration led by Fr Stephen Dias of the Pilar Society. In his homily, Fr Stephen highlighted the significance of St Andrew in proclaiming Jesus to people.
The priest later blessed holy pictures of St Andrew which was presented by the VGA. During thanksgiving, VGA President Teodoro Colaco announced the formation of the new association and its visions.
Colaco later thanked Fr Stephen, the parish priest Fr Jovito, the choir, the altar servers, church officials, volunteers, Manuel D’souza (for the choir sound system), Clifford Fernandes (for sponsoring snacks and refreshments) and all who attended the Feast Mass.
DINE AND DANCE
After the Mass, the people proceeded to attend the Dine and Dance event at the Saffron D’or Banquet Hall at Lady Margaret Road Southall.
Music consisting of traditional Goan songs and modern hits was provided by the bands ‘Royal’, ‘Reunion’ and DJ David, while Romeo was the MC at the event.
In his welcome address, VGA President Teodoro Colaco said the purpose of forming the association was bring together the Goan diaspora, who emigrated from Goa in search of better prospects.
“The VGA is an outcome of common thinking, acceptable ideas and inclusive efforts of people who have a common goal to continue our Goan culture. The VGA has its prime objective to preserve Konkani language theatre/drama, Mandos/Dulpods unique of Goa, festive celebrations and above all, bonds and solidarity,” said Colaco.
Colaco hoped that all members and well-wishers would be united and work together towards the success of the VGA.
Colaco stated that membership of VGA, UK is open to all those who hail from Mormugao Taluka and invited people from this area to join as members of VGA.
A number of games like housie and a raffle and spot prizes were conducted at the gathering. Besides, the function was sponsored by various organisations and individuals. The buffet included traditional Goan cuisine and other popular dishes, and desserts.
The VGA General Secretary Fraizer Fernandes thanked all sponsors for their generosity towards the event, as well as the enthusiastic participation of the guests. He said the VGA looks forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come.
FELICITATING PERSONALITIES
The VGA felicitated a number of Goan personalities on the occasion, in recognition of their outstanding services in the UK.
Mayor of Swindon Imtiyaz Shaikh was felicitated for his achievements in the UK and his contributions to the welfare of the Goan community in the UK.
Vasco Goans Association committee members along with the seven guests who were felicitated at the event.
Tommy Alfonso (Junior Nelson) was felicitated in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Konkani Tiatr, while Felicidade P Rebelo (Felcy) was also honoured for her services.
Lourence Gomes was felicitated for his achievements in football, while Lanisha and Delisha Vaz were honoured as melodious Konkani stars.
Clayton Barreto (S. Secretary to the High Commissioner at the High Commission of India) was felicitated for his outstanding contributions to the Goan community in the UK. Over 16 years, he has championed Goan culture, promoted Konkani, supported Goan talent, and ensured Goa’s presence in the Indian High Commission and international platforms. Deeply committed to Goan values and identity, Barreto has always assisted Goans in need, while also balancing his professional duties with social and religious commitments. Barreto was honoured as a beacon of Goan heritage, a role model, and a dedicated leader.
Zeferino Barreto was honoured for his supportive services and as a dedicated committee member of the year 2024.
All those felicitated thanked the VGA for the felicitation and assured all possible support in future.
VGA COMMITTEE
The newly-formed VGA committee comprises of Teodoro Colaco (President), Jose De Souza (vice president), Fraizer Fernandes (General Secretary) Pritam Gaonkar (Treasurer), Cristova De Braganza (Joint Treasurer), Simao Felix Dias (Financial Controller), Sanny Fernandes (Auditor), Gabby Fernandes (Public Relation Officer), Seby Mascarenhas (General Co-Ordinator), Jacinto D’souza (Advisor), Pascoal Vaz (Cultural Secretary), Bertrand Fernandes (Sports Secretary) and Zeferino Barreto (Social Secretary).
The Cultural Executive Committee Members are Lloyd Fernandes, Antonio Cardozo, John Rodrigues (Johnny), and William Rodrigues. The Sports Committee Members are Dionisio Fernandes, Volney De Souza and Manuel D’Souza. The Social Executive Committee Members are Ernesto Carvalho, Jose De Mello, Nelson Fernandes, Jose Luis De Souza, Agnelo N. Nunes, Socoor Marcel Joseph and Cliffer Fernandes.
