VANCOUVER
The Goa Overseas Association of Vancouver (GOA Vancouver) hosted a successful Goan-Inspired High Tea for a cause at LuLu Island Winery in Richmond, British Columbia on July 26.
Created and led by Ashney Rebello, Social & Cultural Director of GOA Vancouver, in collaboration with President Anne Da Silva and the GOA Vancouver Executive, the event was designed to introduce the wider Vancouver community to the rich culinary traditions, hospitality, and culture of Goa while raising funds for the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada (JGIC).
Working alongside celebrated Goan chefs—Chef Leslie Fernandes, Chef Aldrich D’Mello, Chef Rohit Kulkarni, Chef Milton Rebello, CCC, and Chef Ashney Rebello—the afternoon featured an authentic Goan-inspired High Tea menu showcasing the vibrant flavours and heritage of Goa.
The chefs generously donated their time, talent, and exceptional culinary creations, making the event a celebration of community, culture, and generosity. The GOA Vancouver extended its heartfelt gratitude to each chef for their unwavering support and dedication in making this special event possible.
The fundraiser supported the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, helping advance wildlife conservation and the internationally recognised Roots & Shoots youth education programme, which empowers young people to become environmental leaders in Canada, India, Africa, and around the world.
The afternoon was emceed by Cathy Cena, whose warmth, professionalism, and engaging presence added to the elegance and success of the event.
Among the guests present included elected officials, community leaders, and supporters like Alexa Loo (Richmond City Councillor); Rohini Arora (MLA for Burnaby East); Zoe Royer (Member of Parliament for Coquitlam–Port Moody–Anmore–Belcarra); Trish Mandewo (Award-Winning Governance Strategist, Municipal & Public Policy Leader, Board & CEO Advisor); Hema Bhatt (Founder of Natu’Oil and Board Director of the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation); Corinne Caldwell (Chair of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada); and members of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada Board.
Many community partners, sponsors, volunteers, and members of the Goan community were also present at the event, making it a memorable celebration of culture, community, and conservation.
“The overwhelming response from the community was a testament to the power of bringing people together with a shared purpose. More than an elegant afternoon of exceptional food and warm hospitality, the Goan-Inspired High Tea became a celebration of Goan heritage, meaningful community connections, and environmental stewardship,” said GOA Vancouver President Anne Da Silva.
“Through this event, GOA Vancouver proudly showcased the beauty of Goan culture to the wider Vancouver community while supporting one of the world’s most respected conservation organisations. It was an afternoon that honoured the legacy of Dr Jane Goodall, celebrated the generosity of individuals, and demonstrated what can be achieved when a community comes together with passion, purpose, and heart.”
GOA Vancouver extended its appreciation to every volunteer, sponsor, donor, and guest whose support contributed to the success of this memorable event. Xavier Rebello was praised for his support, generosity, and dedication to assist throughout the planning, preparation, and execution of the High Tea.
The association also expressed its gratitude to Dax Dasilva, GOA community member, CEO of Lightspeed Commerce Inc., Founder of Age of Union, and member of the Jane Goodall Legacy Foundation Council.
In a gesture of generosity, Dax gifted every guest a copy of ‘Echoes from Eden’, chronicling Dax’s travels to endangered ecosystems across the globe and his conservation work alongside Dr Jane Goodall in the Amazon rainforest and East Africa between 2023 and 2025.
