GLOBAL GOANS IN FOCUS
PANAJI
A Goan economist serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Cereal Millers Association of Kenya since 2007 has been recently nominated for the Global Food and Agriculture Organisation FAO’s 100 Women Heroines of 2026.
When contacted, Paloma Fernandes said her first reaction to this prestigious nomination “was a mixture of surprise, gratitude and a little disbelief.”
“To be nominated for the 100 FAO Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development is an extraordinary honour. What makes it especially meaningful is that it recognises a belief guiding my work to help improve millions of lives for over two decades,” Paloma told The Goan.
GOAN ROOTS
Hailing from Sirvodem-Navelim, Paloma is the daughter of John Gomes, OGW (Navelim), and Annie Gomes (Seraulim), who moved from Goa to Kenya in the 1960s.
“I have two sisters, Desiree Gomes (Kenya) and Fabiola Fernandes (Goa). I am married to Ian Fernandes (Cansaulim), and we have two daughters, Georgia and Kayleigh,” said Paloma.
Raised in Kenya, Paloma attended Loreto Convent Msongari (Nairobi) and moved to Goa to complete her bachelor’s degree in economics at Chowgule College, Margao. She pursued postgraduate studies at Dhempe College, with further training through NIIT.
“My years in Goa became so much more than studying. Having lived in Kenya all my life, it was my first real opportunity to experience Goa not simply as the place my family came from, but as a home I could claim for myself,” recalled Paloma.
“I met my father’s family in Navelim and my mother’s family in Seraulim. I was also fortunate to find wonderful friends at Chowgule College, and we still meet for reunions.”
“All of this is a large part of why Goa became so special to me. It gave me family, friendship, a sense of belonging and memories that have stayed with me ever since.”
CAREER IN KENYA
After completing her studies, Paloma returned to Kenya to join her sister.
“I had no idea that economics would lead me into flour mills, food safety and helping feed a country, but that unexpected path became the most meaningful part of my professional life,” said Paloma.
“I began to understand how much trust is placed in one packet of flour. A family expects it to be safe, nutritious and affordable. Once I understood that responsibility, my work has been something I genuinely care about.”
“My job is to help ensure food is nutritious, safe and affordable for over 40 million Kenyans and ensuring it reaches the most vulnerable families through our members. Another important role is keeping track of the country’s basic food supplies, including maize, wheat, rice and pulses, especially during shortages or droughts.”
“I also speak for the industry when taxes, high costs or trade barriers make food more expensive.”
Paloma said some of her most memorable moments have been interacting with presidents and ministers to discuss issues affecting an entire country.
“Among the most rewarding moments have been working with people in the industry who genuinely want to be changemakers. When business leaders use their influence to protect consumers and improve lives, rather than simply protect profits, it reminds me why this work matters,” she said.
ACHIEVEMENTS, RECOGNITION
Paloma said one of the proudest moments of her life was receiving the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) of Kenya from the President in 2022 for her work in food safety and nutrition.
“The recognition was deeply humbling, especially because it came from the country I have spent my life serving. I was also honoured to join the Board of the Micronutrient Forum, allowing me to bring Kenya’s experience into global conversations on nutrition and public health,” said Paloma.
Incidentally, her father, John Gomes, received his OGW in 2020: the first for a Goan family in Kenya.
My most meaningful achievement is helping found the Earth Angels Welfare Association. For more than 15 years, we have fed vulnerable children, served over one million meals, and helped more than 135 young people reach secondary school, college and university, changing futures.
GOAN IDENTITY
Paloma said her Goan identity has given her a deep sense of family, faith, community and service.
“My father, John, always taught us that success was never only about what we achieved for ourselves but also about what we did for others. He and my mother, Annie, ran schools across Kenya for over 30 years. They showed us that service should be part of everyday life,” said Paloma.
“That same spirit has kept me closely connected to the Goan community in Kenya. My siblings and I have served on committees of Goan organisations, including the Goan Welfare Society and the Goan Institute.”
“My Goan heritage has also taught me how to adapt without losing my roots. That is how I see myself: deeply committed to Kenya, while always carrying Goa with me.”
“Although Kenya is home, Goa has always felt like another part of home waiting for me. Every visit has brought new relatives and familiar names. That sense of connection is what has kept Navelim close to me, no matter where I have lived.”
MESSAGE TO YOUNG GOANS
When asked for her message to young Goans, Paloma advised them not to let other people decide how far they can go based on their gender, background, race or nationality.
“What matters is what you bring to the table: your ideas, integrity, preparation and willingness to work. Keep showing up consistently, even when it feels as though nobody notices and nothing is changing. Progress is often quiet before it becomes visible,” said Paloma.
“Be proud of your roots, but never allow them to become boundaries. Carry them with you as a source of strength wherever life takes you. And when you finally find your place at the table, make room for someone else.”
