Youth Goan Association offers cultural, educational, community, mental health programmes
THE GOAN NETWORK | LONDON
The Youth Goan Association (YGA), a non-profit organisation has been established in the UK to foster the development of the Goan community, particularly among the youth.
The YGA has been founded with the aim to provide a platform for Goan youth to come together, celebrate Goan culture, and contribute towards the betterment of the community.
The founders and office bearers of the YGA are Mark Silva (president), Conroy Colaco (vice-president), Rhea de Melo (secretary), Greta Fernandes (treasurer) and Oligson Fernandes (public relations officer/internal auditor), Seby Colaco (advisor) and RJ Roque Vaz (external auditor). Fr Patrick D’Souza and Fr Jovito D’Souza will be spiritual advisors.
MISSION
“YGA's mission of promoting social, cultural, educational, and economic development is one that is essential for the growth and prosperity of the Goan community. We are proud to be a part of the vibrant community of Southall, Hounslow, Greenford, and Wembley,” explained YGA President Mark Silva.
“The Youth Goan Association is a beacon of hope for young people and their families in the UK. Unlike other associations, we are uniquely focused on providing essential services to support the well-being and success of our community.”
“Inspired by the success of the Somali Association, founded by young people aged 15-19, we are confident that the Youth Goan Association can make a real difference in our community. We want Goan youth to join us in our mission to uplift, empower, and support the next generation of leaders!”
“With my experience as a mentor, accredited emotional literacy support assistant and parent ambassador, along with other founders who bring other experience, we strive to empower and uplift the next generation of leaders,” Silva added.
PROJECTS
YGA aims to achieve its mission by organising events and activities that bring the community together, providing educational opportunities for young Goans, and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.
Describing YGA as a vital organisation for the Goan community, Silva said its services and programmes are designed to promote the development of young Goans and the betterment of the community as a whole.
“One of the most significant services that YGA offers is its cultural programmes. These events are designed to promote Goan culture and traditions, and they include events such as the Goan Food Festival and the Konkani Music Festival,” said Silva.
“Another important service that YGA offers is its educational programmes. YGA believes that education is the key to success, and it offers a range of educational opportunities for young Goans. These include scholarships, mentoring programmes and workshops on topics such as entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal development.”
Silva said YGA also provides a platform for young Goans to network and connect with each other.
“YGA organises social events such as picnics, sports tournaments, and cultural performances, where young Goans can come together and build relationships with each other. There will be more opportunities for young people to flourish. We are in touch with one school and also receiving support from the Southall Community Alliance.”
In addition, Silva said the YGA also offers a range of community service programmes.
“These programmes are designed to help the community by providing various services. Our mission is the cultural but we are big on mental health among the youth. Our range of services includes mentoring, mental health support, school applications, career guidance, school advocacy, translation, CV writing, contacting social services/council and translator,” said Silva.
“Best of all, these services are completely free of charge, but we keep donations open to help us expand our impact. YGA believes in giving back to the community and encourages its members to volunteer their time and resources to help those in need.”
“We stand ready to help anyone in need. We recognise that mental health and well-being are essential to success in life, and we are passionate about providing the support and resources necessary to help individuals overcome any challenges they may face,” he added.
