Tag: Goan Community

Social

Community Spirit Shines at Blood Donation Camp Held in Pilerne, Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

On October 12, 2025, the church hall of St. John the Baptist Church in Pilerne, Goa, was filled not only with people but with purpose, as the parish hosted its annual Blood Donation Camp. Organized in collaboration with Loving Hearts Goa and the North Goa District Hospital (Asilo) Blood Bank, the event exemplified the true meaning of community service and selflessness.

The camp, held from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, welcomed donors from all walks of life. From young professionals to elderly parishioners, the turnout reflected a collective spirit of generosity and awareness about the importance of donating blood. The smooth execution of the event was made possible with the logistical support of the medical team from Asilo Blood Bank and the hospitality extended by Peppy’s Goan Kitchen Caterers.

Mr. Mark D’Souza, President of Loving Hearts Goa, along with founding member Mr. Ranjit Rodrigues and Treasurer Ms. Sanyukta Gawade, expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved. In particular, they acknowledged the unwavering support of Fr. Derick Fernandes, the parish priest, whose encouragement was vital to the event’s success.

Events like these not only contribute directly to saving lives but also bring communities closer, reminding everyone of the impact a small act of kindness can have. The blood collected during the camp will go on to help patients in need, proving once again that giving is indeed a blessing.

Sports

Goan Football Cup 2025 Unites Communities in London, Sets New Records

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goan Football Cup 2025 has emerged as a monumental celebration of sport, culture, and community abroad. Held at Cranford Community College in London on August 23, the tournament drew record participation, with 28 men’s teams and three women’s teams — making it the largest Goan football tournament outside Goa.

The second edition of the event reinforced the Goan community’s love for the game while showcasing its inclusive nature. Players from different communities competed side by side, with Goan teams putting up strong performances against sides featuring seasoned English 5-a-side players.

One of the most inspiring stories of the tournament was the participation of Wilred United Goa, led by manager Joe Vas. The team traveled from Goa to London, making a powerful statement about the global reach of Goan football. Their women’s team, which included former India junior international Anline Fernandes, dominated the competition and won the championship without conceding a single goal. Their victory, achieved in their very first appearance together, stands as a proud moment for Goan women’s football and the diaspora.

Southall Athletic WFC put on a strong performance to finish as runners-up in the women’s tournament after an unbeaten group stage. In the men’s category, it was Daily Ballin who emerged victorious, defeating Filthy Starz in a thrilling finale.

But the event was about much more than just the matches. The Goan Football Cup transformed into a festival, with families and fans enjoying authentic Goan food by Pratos De Goa, Feni cocktails by GoaTails, and vibrant live performances from artists Saneev, Rochus, and singer Braga. The atmosphere was electric, merging sport with cultural pride.

The prize distribution ceremony, led by community leaders Xavier Vas, Jules Alberto Dias, Ruksana Braz, and celebrated singer Mark Revlon, honoured team achievements and individual excellence.

With its growing stature, the Goan Football Cup has now firmly established itself as the flagship Goan sporting event outside India. As the community celebrates this success, one thing is clear — this is just the beginning of a powerful legacy that will continue to unite Goans and amplify their passion for football on a global stage.

Sports

Goan Talent Shines at International Carrom Tournament in the UK

allycaralgoa

The International Carrom Tournament was successfully organised by the Goan Sports Club U.K. in collaboration with the United Kingdom Carrom Federation, drawing over 40 players across two categories — Singles and Doubles. The event featured participants from three different nationalities and showcased some of the finest talent in the UK’s carrom scene.

Among the participants were seven Goans who represented with pride and passion:
John D’Cunha (Taleigao), Rose Rebello (Maina Curtorim), Elroy Carvalho (Agassaim), Pio Pereira (Cortalim), Khader Xec (Chinchinim), Sazbert Coutinho (Cansaulim), and Infancio Miranda (Ribandar).

In the Doubles category, Rose Rebello and Khader Xec put on a strong performance but were narrowly edged out in the group stage by fellow Goan John D’Cunha and his partner Natwarsingh, who advanced to the finals.
The final match saw John and Natwarsingh face the UK’s top duo, Sufiyan Chicktey and Ish Kumar. After a closely contested game, John and Natwarsingh finished as runners-up.

In the Singles final, Sufiyan Chicktey continued his dominant form, defeating Prashant Pangare to claim the Singles Champion title.

The tournament was held at The Social Sports Bar, Hounslow Market Place, and concluded with a prize distribution ceremony. Awards were presented by Sanrose D’Costa and Joshua Vas of the Goan Sports Club U.K

Events in Goa

Goa Day 2025: A Vibrant Celebration of Goan Culture in Kuwait

allycaralgoa

The Good Shepherds Cultural and Social Welfare Association in Kuwait recently hosted a spectacular celebration of Goa Day 2025, bringing the vibrant spirit of Goa to the heart of Kuwait. The event, held on May 2nd, drew large crowds from the Goan and wider Indian community, showcasing the rich culture, traditions, and unity of Goa.

Photo Credits : Rivon Gomes

The occasion was graced by the presence of Shri. Alexo Redinaldo Lourenco, Honorable MLA of Curtorim Constituency, Goa, who was the Chief Guest of the event. “I’m delighted to see the Goan community in Kuwait come together to celebrate our rich heritage,” he said, highlighting the strong bonds between the Goan diaspora in Kuwait and their homeland.

The evening featured a range of performances that showcased the rich cultural heritage of Goa. Renowned artists Mark Revlon-Goa, Ester Noronha-Mangalore, Polly, Succoro, and Ben Evengelist-UK, along with local Goan and Mangalorean artists in Kuwait, created a colorful tapestry of Goan music, dance, and artistic expression.

The President of the Good Shepherds Cultural and Social Welfare Association expressed heartfelt gratitude to all supporters, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees, saying, “Goa Day 2025 is a testament to our unity, our love for our culture, and the unwavering spirit of the Goan community in Kuwait.”

The event recognized notable community members for their service and contribution to cultural preservation and welfare activities. “This celebration is a reminder of the values of community, solidarity, and pride in one’s roots,” said a community leader, reflecting the event’s impact.

The success of Goa Day 2025 has further solidified the role of the Good Shepherds Cultural and Social Welfare Association as a pillar of cultural unity for Goans living in Kuwait.

Spotlight

Goan Community Mourns the Loss of Alvaro Collaço

allycaralgoa

The Goan community in the UK came together to pay their respects to Alvaro Collaço, former chairman of the Goan Overseas Association (GOA) UK, who passed away on December 31, 2024. A memorial service was held at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in South London, attended by relatives, friends, and community members.


Alvaro Collaço was a dedicated servant of the Goan community in the UK. Born in Jinja, Uganda, he studied in Goa and Poona before returning to Entebbe, Uganda, where he served in the government ministries for over 19 years. After moving to the UK in 1973, he worked as Company Secretary for the Technical Education and Training Organisation for Overseas Countries (TETOC) and later retired as Assistant Director of the British Council’s Educational Contracts Department.


Alvaro played an active role in the G.O.A. (UK) for many years, serving as Chairman of their Council of Management from 1983 to 1986. He was instrumental in acquiring the G.O.A. (UK) clubhouse in Beckenham and setting up the former Standing Conference of Goan Organisations (SCOGO), now known as the GOAN festival. He also served as Governor of the St Francis Xavier 6th Form College in Clapham.


Mervyn Maciel, a 95-year-old former Senior Civil Servant, remembered Alvaro with great affection, saying, “He had nothing but Goan blood flowing through his veins. He was passionate about doing things with the uplift of the community in mind.” Watford Borough Councillor Rabi Martins described Alvaro as “a gentle giant with wisdom, foresight, and determination.”


Alvaro Collaço’s legacy will live on through the Goan Association UK, which he helped shape and grow. His commitment to the community and his tireless efforts to promote Goan culture and heritage will be deeply missed. The Goan community in the UK will continue to celebrate his life and legacy, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.