Fatordekars unite to form an association in the UK

Founding members of United Goans of Fatorda, UK (From L to R): Lino Fernandes, Anthony Miranda, RJ Roque Vaz, Bihula Vaz, Bosco Ribeiro, Joe Braganca, Alvito Dias and Xavier Fernandes.



LONDON

The stage is all set for the formation of the first ever community organisation of the villagers of Fatorda residing in the United Kingdom. 

An enthusiastic and community-minded group of Fatordekars, living and working in the United Kingdom met on September 10 at the residence of Alvito Dias in Wembley, London, and as the founding members, they unanimously resolved to form an ad-hoc managing committee towards the formation of a voluntary organisation, United Goans of Fatorda, UK. 

The main aim of the organisation is to promote, strengthen and maintain Goan culture, traditions and Konkani language in the United Kingdom in particular and in Europe in general.

The core provisional committee members and their designations are Alvito Dias (President), Bosco Ribeiro (Vice President), RJ Roque Vaz (General Secretary) and Lino Fernandes (Treasurer).

The idea that the people of the village of Fatorda (Salcete Taluka) should have a proper association was first mooted by Alvito Dias. Born and brought up in Murida, Fatorda, Alvito has carved a niche for himself in London by actively participating in various Goan community events to promote Goan traditions for almost a decade. 

Spokesperson of the Association, RJ Roque Vaz, presenter of Europe’s lone Konkani Radio FM show ‘Konkani Uloi London Fuloi’ of Awaaz FM and himself a Fatordekar, remarked, “I have known Alvito personally for many years now as an active volunteer at events which showcase the cultural heritage of Goa in UK.”

“A few years back, he did discuss with me his dream to bring all Fatordekars together on one common platform in the United Kingdom. We Fatordekars based in the UK decided to support his vision and today we are proud that his efforts are coming to fruition.”

The newly-formed association will organise its first-ever community event, the Feast of Our Lady of Rosary on Saturday, October 14 from 6 pm onwards at Patidar House, 22 London Road, Wembley, London, UK. 

The salient feature of the first event is that a group of Fatordekars from Ireland will be travelling to London exclusively to be a part of the international community event in Wembley.

The entertainers are London’s popular DJ Jonathan Barreto and seasoned one-man band Chico. The multi-cultural event with authentic Goan cuisine will be hosted by RJ Roque Vaz. The highlight of the event will be the crowning of the Rosary Queen 2023. 

Clayton Barreto, Social Secretary to the High Commissioner, High Commission of India, London, has consented to be the chief guest.

Many generous Fatordekars have come forward as sponsors and are excited that they finally are going to have a place of pride in the United Kingdom.