With several thousands of Goans settled in Swindon-England, leaders from the community have been keen to represent Goans and other communities at the Swindon council. LUI GODINHO provides details on 19 candidates of Goan-origin – 11 from Labour Party and 8 from Conservative Party – who will be contesting elections to the various council wards and parish wards in Swindon Council on May 7.
IMTIYAZ SHAIKH
Councillor Imtiyaz Shaikh, who is contesting from Queen’s Park, has had the distinction of serving as the first Swindon mayor of Goan origin.
“I have a deep-rooted passion for public service, and have spent years working tirelessly to ensure that the voices of residents are heard at the heart of the Borough Council,” said Imtiyaz.
“I have worked to tackle local priorities, from improving road safety and waste management to supporting the revitalisation of Swindon’s town centre. My work is defined by a commitment to social justice and economic fairness, consistently pushing for better local services despite national budget constraints.”
ADORABELLE AMARAL SHAIKH
Councillor Adorabelle Amaral Shaikh is contesting from Broadgreen ward.
“I have been a dedicated local councillor who has worked tirelessly for Broadgreen since first being elected in 2019. As the Cabinet Member for Eduction, I have championed opportunities for young people, supported local schools and stood up for residents helping build a stronger, fairer community for everyone,” said Adorabelle.
“I have been actively involved in supporting residents across Swindon—working on issues ranging from community wellbeing and local services to tackling inequality and improving opportunities for families and young people.”
DOMINGOS SEBY DIAS
Domingos Dias is contesting from Broadgreen council ward and parish ward.
“Having lived in the community for over a decade, I work locally and have experience serving as a trade union representative, supporting workers’ rights while campaigning to tackle fly tipping, improve neighbourhoods and helping local residents,” said Domingos.
ANA ROSADA FERNANDES
Councillor Ana Rosada Fernandes is contesting elections from Rodbourne, Ferndale & Western Ward.
“I am deeply committed to representing our communities with honesty, energy, and a strong sense of purpose. I believe in making sure every resident feels heard and respected. I am passionate about building strong, connected communities where people feel supported, included, and able to shape the place they call home,” said Ana.
“What I value most about Rodbourne, Ferndale and Western is the resilience, diversity, and community spirit that runs through it. I strive to be approachable, visible, and dedicated-someone residents can trust to stand up for them and represent their voice with clarity and commitment.”
PRINCIA FERNANDES
Councillor Princia Fernandes is contesting elections as a councillor from Gorse Hill, a community she has called home since 2008.
“With a strong passion for supporting local people, I am committed to strengthening community spirit and ensuring every resident has a voice in decisions that shape their neighbourhood,’ said Princia.
“I work closely with residents to address everyday concerns such as safer streets, cleaner surroundings, and improved local services. A firm advocate for community engagement, I am dedicated to bringing people together and celebrating the diversity that makes Gorse Hill a vibrant place to live. I strive to ensure that everyone feels valued, supported, and included.”
DANIEL PASCOAL VALES
Daniel Pascoal Vales is a Parish Council candidate contesting from Park’s Ward and Councillor in Upper Stratton.
“I am a parish councillor committed to grassroots community advocacy and positive local change. I actively volunteer with charities such as the Helping Hearts food charity, supports multicultural events, and promotes initiatives aimed at young people,” said Daniel.
“With a strong focus on education and community needs, I work to represent residents’ interests and create inclusive, welcoming spaces.”
JOCELINA PATRICIA D’SOUZA
Jocelina Patricia D’Souza is a Parish Council candidate contesting from Walcot Ward and Parish councillor Park’s ward.
“I am deeply committed to supporting others through my involvement with the Helping Heart charity. Guided by compassion and a strong desire to improve the lives of local residents, I understand the difficulties families face and is dedicated to promoting fairness and respect for everyone. With strong ties to the community, I aim to be a powerful advocate for local people,” said Jocelina.
LOURDES CANDIDA DE OLIVEIRA
Lourdes Candida de Oliveira is a candidate contesting from Rodbourne Ferndale Parish Ward.
“Since 2007, I’ve supported our community through health education, fundraising for those in need, church activities, and helping non-English speakers access services. I care deeply about our community and together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community,” said Lourdes.
ANTHONY (TONY) FERNANDES
Anthony (Tony) Fernandes is contesting from the Parish Ward of Rodbourne Ferndale.
“As a proud local resident, I care deeply about our community and the everyday issues that matter to the people who live here. Working alongside local volunteers and councillors, I’ve taken part in community litter picks, helped clean and maintain street signs, and supported efforts to strengthen neighbourhood connections. I’ve spent time listening to residents across Rodbourne Ferndale, and I understand the challenges we face,” said Tony.
OTHERS
Meural Cardozo (left) and Javis Rodrigues (right).
Meural Cardozo is contesting elections from the Broadgreen Parish Ward, while Javis Rodrigues is contesting elections from South Marston Ward and Pinehurst Parish Ward.
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ANABELLE PEGADO
A Conservative councillor in Swindon, Anabelle Pegado is seeking election from Broadgreen Ward and as Parish Councillor.
“The enduring ties between Goa and the UK are lived realities for thousands of families. It is this dual heritage that continues to shape my outlook and reinforce my belief in inclusive, forward-looking governance,” said Anabelle.
“I have focused on practical delivery, which includes supporting local businesses, advocating for safer neighbourhood, and working to ensure that public services remain accessible, efficient, and responsive. I remain committed to strengthening communities, supporting economic opportunity, and ensuring that local government remains responsive and accountable.”
ALBANO J R LOURENCO
Albano J. R. Lourenco is contesting from Broadgreen Parish ward.
Presently employed as indoor mail sorter at the Royal Mail in Swindon, Albano is a part time compere for weddings, beat shows, parties, conferences, events in hotels and boat cruises.
ROUCHELL CARDOSO
Rouchell Cardoso is contesting the Borough Council for Penhill and Pinehurst and Parish Council for Rodbourne Fernandale Ward.
“As a committed Conservative and proud active member of the Swindon area, I understand exactly what matters to local families and residents. I bring strong leadership, reliability and dedication to everything I do,” said Rouchell.
“I have a proven track record of service, having organised many charity and volunteer events. If elected, I will work closely with our fantastic local charities and community groups to support residents of all ages. I want to make a real, positive difference to where I live.”
SAVIO TELLES
Savio Telles is contesting from the Broadgreen Parish Ward.
“With long-standing ties to the area and practical experience in community-focused roles, I aim to represent residents with integrity and commitment. I have lived in this locality for more than two decades and know the community's grievances. I feel that there is a lot of room for improvement,” said Savio.
“My Priorities include supporting local youth and encouraging small business initiatives, creating more opportunities, activities, and programs for children and teenagers, improving community safety, keeping our streets clean, safe, and environmentally healthy and promoting community spirit through local events and social gatherings.”
NATASHA VAS
Natasha Vas is contesting council elections from Ferndale Ward.
“I am passionate about creating opportunities for families—especially children—to feel supported and included. One of my key areas of focus is organising meaningful activities and events for children, designed to keep them engaged, reduce excessive screen time, and offer them positive, enriching experiences,” said Natasha.
“I want to work towards community events, local improvements, and initiatives that bring long-term value to residents. Ferndale is more than just a place to live—it is a community defined by its people. I will be dedicated to serving with integrity, transparency, and genuine commitment.”
OTHERS
[Left to Right] Inacio V Da Silva, Livio Joe Camelo and Miguel Vintur Fernandes.
Inacio V Da Silva and Livio Joe Camelo are contesting from Queen’s Park Ward and Queen’s Park Parish Ward, while Miguel Vintur Fernandes is contesting the borough council from Broadgreen Ward.
