Committee members of the Goa Cultural Association (GCA) along with officials from the Indian Culture Centre in Doha-Qatar.
PANAJI
The Indian Culture Centre (ICC), which functions under the aegis of the Embassy of India at Qatar, on May 7 officially recognised the Goa Cultural Association (GCA) as the sole representative body for Goans in Qatar, announcing the milestone via its social media channels.
The GCA committee comprises Roldão Fernandes (President), Dr Queenie Fernandes (Vice President), Mario Jude Dcosta (General Secretary), Larissa Abraham (Joint Secretary), Emmanuel (Neville) Azavedo (Treasurer), Ollancio Soares (Public Relations & Social Media Secretary), Martin Mascarenhas (Sports Secretary), Carol Gonsalves (Social & Welfare
Secretary), Trecilda Pereira (Committee Member), Liberata (Libby) Fernandes (Committee Member) and late Sebastian Mascarenhas (Cultural & Events Secretary).
“This recognition marks a historic moment for the Goan community, which for decades had been yearning for a democratically managed association. The challenge was taken up by John Desa, who persisted for years alongside like‑minded Goans to achieve this outcome. His perseverance and resilience led to the formation of the Revival Team, which carried the process forward,” said GCA President Roldão Fernandes.
“The interim leadership of Filomeno Alves, President of the GCA Revival Team, was instrumental in maintaining continuity while preparing for a democratic election under ICC’s supervision.”
A major outreach campaign was undertaken to enrol members for the election process, ensuring broad participation and inclusivity. Nominees were put forward to represent the community and as the process unfolded, the absence of opposition meant the committee’s formation went ahead unchallenged — a development that reflected consensus within the Goan community and was ratified by ICC’s recognition.
“The journey would not have been possible without the many individuals who stood by and supported the effort. Special thanks were extended to all members of GCA who kept their faith and showed patience during the long road to recognition, demonstrating trust in the vision and resilience of the association,” said Roldão.
The GCA also paid tribute to its Cultural & Events Secretary Sebastian Mascarenhas (Seby), a beloved member who passed away earlier this year.
“His contributions and spirit remain an enduring part of the association’s journey and this recognition stands as a tribute to his legacy,” said Roldão.
He said the GCA managing committee has outlined its vision for the future and emphasised priorities such as unity, cultural identity, youth engagement, welfare programs and collaboration with ICC.
Since its registration in January 2026, GCA has already hosted a Community Sports event in February, which saw strong participation and positive feedback.
Operating on a not‑for‑profit basis, the association is dedicated to strengthening Goan ties in Qatar while promoting culture, arts, music, science and sports as a way of keeping traditions alive.
The committee also highlighted that by being part of ICC, GCA gains the added benefit of networking with the wider Indian diaspora in Qatar, opening doors for collaboration across communities and creating opportunities for Goans to engage more broadly in cultural, social and professional spheres — further enriching the Goan presence in Qatar.
“Looking ahead, GCA is focusing its immediate efforts on the upcoming São João celebrations scheduled for June 26th, an event that promises to bring families together in a vibrant display of Goan tradition and festivity. This is just the beginning — Goans in Qatar can stay tuned for many more programs and events designed to celebrate Goan culture, strengthen community bonds and showcase our heritage across Qatar,” Roldão added.
