[From L to R] Brito Carvalho, Savio Fernandes, Fredy Carvalho, Rosy Fernandes, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Migration and Citizenship) Seema Malhotra, Sonia Fernandes, Gaudencio Fernandes and Vallen Fernandes.
LONDON
The United Friends UK marked the Feast of St Francis Xavier by organising its 8th Annual ‘Boas Fest’, a dine and dance event at Silver Dine Hall, Salisbury Road, Hounslow on November 30.
The event was fully supported by United Friends Heathrow. The band in ‘Popcornmix’ and DJ Jonathan provided music at the event, while the show was compered by MC Bunty.
The chief guest of the day was Seema Malhotra MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Migration and Citizenship) and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Equalities).
In her address, Malhotra lauded the organisers and the hard-working Goan community and pledged to support them in future engagements. Rosy Fernandes was crowned Queen of United Friends UK.
President of United Friends UK Sonia Andrade and Freddy Carvalho (co-ordination) thanked all Goans who attended the event. The show was sponsored by Edward Fernandes from WSC Services, Slough & ZIVAC Education UK, while security was provided by 3ple H Security Limited (All Goan entrepreneurs).
About United Friends UK
Most of the members from United Friends UK hail from Majorda. When they first arrived in the UK, some core members of the group, which included Freddy Carvalho, used to stay in same house.
“We had plans to do something or organise events in the UK. We decided to organise a dance eight years ago and chose to celebrate the Feast of St Francis Xavier,” said Freddy.
“Initially, we would contribute towards the event and as the years passed, the event gradually grew in stature and became an instant hit among fellow Goans.”
The United Friends UK have helped many poor and needy families in Goa.
“Recently on two occasions, a family was given a helping hand to buy medicines (about 500 pounds). Likewise, we provide assistance to poor families for their daily needs, medical bills etc. Our motto is to promote Goans only, especially in the UK and that’s the reason our entire event is handled only by Goans entrepreneurs,” added Freddy.
