A major new chapter has opened for the Goan Association Ireland (GAI) following its Extraordinary General Body Meeting, with the Association announcing a strengthened leadership structure, new executive appointments and a significant reshuffle of portfolios aimed at taking the organisation into a more dynamic and ambitious future.
In a decisive move designed to meet the growing demands of a rapidly expanding community organisation, Richie Dsilva has taken over as President, with Maria DaCosta assuming the role of Vice President, while a number of existing leaders have moved into new portfolios and new members have been brought into the core committee.
“The changes reflect the Association's determination to build on its achievements, broaden participation and place the right people in roles where their experience, skills and availability can deliver the greatest benefit to the Goan community,” said GAI Attorney Aldrin Coutinho.
He said the leadership transition was conducted in a spirit of unity and cooperation.
“Former GAI president Milton Vaz and former GAI vice president Noel D'Souza have extended their full support to the new leadership and will continue playing an active role in the Association.”
Embracing new responsibilities, Milton Vaz moves into the role of Media & PRO, while Noel D'Souza takes charge of Finance & Accounts, ensuring that their experience remains firmly within the organisation while creating space for new leadership.
The restructuring also brings Maxwell into the Executive Committee as Sports & Youth Affairs Officer, signalling a clear commitment to engaging younger members of the community and expanding opportunities through sport, youth activities and community participation.
“The message emerging from the Extraordinary General Body Meeting was unmistakable: Goan Association Ireland is not simply changing its office bearers — it is strengthening its foundation for the future,” said Coutinho.
With new faces joining experienced community leaders, an expanded network of Ambassadors across Ireland and dedicated portfolios covering community affairs, strategic partnerships, culture, events, media, finance, sports and youth, GAI is positioning itself for a broader and more active role in the lives of Goans throughout the country, he added.
TRANSITION BUILT ON UNITY
Coutinho said one of the most significant aspects of the meeting was the spirit in which the leadership transition took place.
“The message from the meeting was one of continuity, cooperation and collective responsibility. This is not about losing leaders; it is about creating more leaders and giving everyone the opportunity to contribute where they can deliver their best,” explained Coutinho.
“The restructuring also opens the door for new members to take on meaningful responsibilities within the core committee, bringing fresh ideas, new skills and renewed enthusiasm to the Association.”
The changes come at a significant time for Goan Association Ireland.
From cultural celebrations and Konkani events to community welfare, social initiatives and public engagement, GAI has steadily expanded its activities and reach.
“The new structure is, therefore designed, not simply to redistribute titles, but to create a more effective, inclusive and sustainable organisation capable of meeting the growing expectations of the Goan community,” said Coutinho.
NEW LEADERSHIP TEAM
The new leadership team comprises Ajoy Fernandes (Founder & Honorary President), while the Board of Directors consists of Milla Hancock Fernandes (Vice President – Community & Public Affairs) and Clint Estibeiro (Sponsorship & Strategic Partnership).
The elected executive committee comprises Richie Dsilva (President), Aldrin Coutinho (Attorney), Maria DaCosta (Vice President), Milton Vaz (Media & PRO), Noel D'Souza (Finance & Accounts), Ciaanna Pereira (Art, Culture & Events) and Maxwell Fernandes (Sports & Youth Affairs Officer).
“The inclusion of a dedicated Sports & Youth Affairs portfolio reflects GAI's commitment to creating opportunities for younger members to participate, lead and contribute to the wider community,” said Coutinho.
The Association will also continue to strengthen its growing network of Ambassadors across Ireland. They include Gracian Rodrigues (Killarney), Aldrin Rego (Dublin), Sherley Colaco (Sligo), Jose Menezes (Limerick), Peter Charlit (Cork), Doris Fernandes (Wexford), Leejoy Pereira (Mayo), Diego Fernandes (Leitrim), Ashley Fernandes (Carlow), Blasco Coutinho (Kilkenny) and Aldrin Coutinho (Galway).
Coutinho said the nationwide representation is expected to help GAI connect more effectively with Goans in different counties and encourage greater participation in its activities.
He also stated that Monica Mathias will serve as the Association's official photographer, while official reporting will continue through Jose Salvador Fernandes (Fuddari Satallem – Konkani).
Coutinho explained that the new committee takes charge at an important moment for Goan Association Ireland.
“Its priorities include strengthening community engagement, promoting Goan culture and Konkani heritage, expanding activities across Ireland, developing sports and youth initiatives, building strategic partnerships and creating greater opportunities for members of all generations to participate,” said Coutinho.
“The Extraordinary General Body Meeting has therefore delivered more than a change in titles. It has laid the foundation for a new phase of leadership, wider participation and renewed ambition.”
“With experienced leaders continuing to serve in new capacities and fresh members stepping forward to take on responsibility, the Goan Association Ireland is looking ahead with confidence.”
