Goan Personalities

Aldona MLA Carlos Alvares Ferreira and Wife Natasha Mark 31 Years of Marriage


Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

Aldona MLA Carlos Alvares Ferreira marked his 31st wedding anniversary, sharing reflections on a journey that spans over three decades of companionship, family, and shared experiences across India and abroad.


Recalling the years since their wedding day, Ferreira reflected on the many milestones that shaped their journey together — from the early days of marriage to raising their two sons, Armando and Daniel, and building a life enriched by travel, faith, and family values. He described the bond as one that has grown stronger with time, likening it to wine that matures with age.

The occasion was also a moment of remembrance, as Ferreira acknowledged family members who are no longer present but remain close in spirit. He expressed gratitude for their blessings and prayers, which he said continue to guide the family.

Sharing words of appreciation, Ferreira thanked his wife, Natasha, for being a steadfast pillar of support through the years, and his sons for their constant encouragement. He also conveyed his appreciation to friends, well-wishers, and members of the community who have been part of the family’s journey and offered their prayers and good wishes on the occasion.

The milestone marked not just the closing of another chapter, but the beginning of a new one, as the family looks ahead to the years to come with faith and gratitude.

Goan Personalities

Divar-Born Neonatologist Dr Armida Fernandez Conferred Padma Shri for Pioneering Human Milk Banking in Asia


Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Renowned neonatologist Dr Armida Fernandez, a daughter of the soil with deep roots in Divar, has been conferred the Padma Shri for her outstanding contribution to neonatal healthcare. Dr Fernandez made history in 1989 by establishing Asia’s first human milk bank, a landmark initiative that transformed newborn care across the region.


Now aged 83, Dr Fernandez is among the 15 recipients from Maharashtra named in the Padma honours announced by the Centre. Her pioneering work has played a crucial role in saving the lives of premature and vulnerable infants, while also raising awareness about the importance of donor human milk in neonatal medicine.

Born into a family with strong ties to Divar, Dr Fernandez’s journey from the island village to becoming a globally respected medical professional stands as an inspiring testament to dedication, compassion, and innovation. Her contributions continue to influence neonatal care practices across India and Asia, leaving behind a lasting legacy in public health.

The Padma Shri recognition acknowledges decades of selfless service and groundbreaking work, reinforcing Dr Armida Fernandez’s position as one of the foremost figures in India’s medical community.

Goan Personalities

Padma Shri Awardee Libia Lobo Sardesai Attends ANZA High School’s 200-Year Celebrations as Chief Guest


Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Panjim, January 2026: Padma Shri awardee Libia Lobo Sardesai, aged 101, left Panjim for Mumbai to attend the 200-year milestone celebrations of ANZA High School, where she will serve as the chief guest at the commemorative events beginning Friday.


Founded in 1826 by Goan educationist Antonio de Souza, the Byculla-based institution has played a significant role in shaping generations of students and boasts an illustrious alumni list that includes Bollywood legend Raj Kapoor, renowned poet Nissim Ezekiel, and Olympian Leo Pinto, among others.

Reflecting on her association with the school, Sardesai reminisced about her early years and the friendships forged on the playground, noting that none of her classmates are alive today. Her presence at the bicentenary celebrations symbolically bridges the institution’s rich past with its present and future.

The bicentennial programme includes a thanksgiving Mass, cultural performances, and a gala dinner, with the celebrations set to culminate on January 25. Sardesai’s participation adds a deeply personal and historical dimension to the landmark occasion, celebrating the enduring legacy of one of Mumbai’s oldest educational institutions.

Goan Personalities

Mauvin Godinho Receives Unique Artwork Crafted from Grains and Pulses


Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Panaji: Mauvin Godinho expressed his appreciation after receiving a unique artwork created using grains and pulses, thoughtfully crafted by noted painting and sculpture artist Shri Kenchappa Badiger along with his team.


Sharing his thoughts on the gesture, Godinho said he was deeply touched by the creativity and meaning behind the artwork. The artist explained that grains, being essential for human survival, were intentionally used to convey the idea that meaningful artistic work should also support livelihoods and families.

The artwork reflects a blend of creativity, sustainability and social purpose, highlighting the role of art not just as an expression, but as a medium that carries deeper values connected to life and community welfare.

The gesture was described as both thoughtful and symbolic, resonating with the importance of purpose-driven creativity.

Goan Personalities

“Being With You Fills Each Moment With Joy”: Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza’s Birthday Note for Wife Sanzia


Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly and Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza took to words to express his love and appreciation for his wife Sanzia on the occasion of her birthday.

In a heartfelt message, Joshua De Souza described how being with Sanzia fills his life with joy, laughter, and warmth beyond measure. He acknowledged her steady support, gentle strength, and the positivity she brings into his life every day.

“Being with you fills each moment with joy, laughter, and warmth beyond measure. I am always grateful for your steady support, gentle strength, and the light you bring into my life,” he wrote.

Wishing her continued good health, peace, and happiness, the Deputy Speaker concluded his note by expressing his hope that she is always surrounded by love and contentment.

The message resonated with many, offering a glimpse into the personal side of the public leader and highlighting the importance of family support behind public service.