GLOBAL GOANS IN FOCUS
A file photo of Steffi Fernandes interacting with Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
LONDON
Goan HR consultant Steffi Fernandes, founder and strategic lead of the global HR and hospitality consultancy firm ‘Estever’, has been appointed President for the UK and Europe at Business Circle International (BCI).
As BCI President (UK & Europe), Steffi will focus on expanding BCI’s regional footprint, cultivating high-impact partnerships, and positioning the UK and Europe as dynamic hubs for innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive global growth.
With over 18 years of cross-continental leadership experience, she has successfully advised organisations and entrepreneurs across the United Kingdom, Europe, India, and Africa, enabling sustainable growth through people-centric and future-ready frameworks.
In a statement, BCI stated that Steffi’s leadership philosophy aligns closely with BCI’s vision to become the world’s most trusted and impactful business community, distinguished by discipline, professionalism, innovation, integrity, and collective excellence. Her work consistently reflects a commitment to building resilient organisations through strategic talent development, workforce mobility, inclusive leadership, and sustainable business practices.”
“We are confident that under her stewardship, BCI UK will emerge as a dynamic hub for collaboration, innovation, and inclusive global growth,” added Devendra Singh Karir, President of BCI Charter.
When contacted, Steffi said BCI’s mission is to build a globally connected business ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs, accelerates cross-border opportunities, and strengthens local-to-global trade through collaboration and learning.
“Its vision is to become the world’s most trusted and impactful business community, defined by discipline, professionalism, and global connectivity,” she said.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
In her recent address to business leaders in Udaipur, Steffi said the UK and Europe are not retreating from international engagement; instead, they are redefining what serious business partnerships look like.
“For Indian entrepreneurs prepared to engage with discipline and clarity, opportunity is not fading, it is evolving,” said Steffi.
Steffi offered a grounded perspective shaped by her work across people strategy, hospitality, and international market engagement.
Europe, Steffi explains, is a market that values stability, ethics, and consistency.
“Businesses across the continent are looking for stable manufacturing partners, transparent and compliant suppliers, and long-term relationships rather than transactional contracts. For Indian businesses with strong foundations, this creates a natural and timely advantage.”
“The opportunities are tangible and diverse. Indian enterprises are gaining momentum in manufacturing and engineering, especially in specialised and precision-led components. Textiles, stone, and interior products, where craftsmanship and heritage matter, continue to resonate strongly.”
“Beyond products, hospitality services, advisory roles, design, consulting, and professional services are finding increasing acceptance, as expertise travels faster than physical goods.”
Steffi said Europe is, however, uncompromising when it comes to standards, as compliance is non-negotiable, timelines matter, and credibility, once lost, is difficult to recover.
GOAN IDENTITY
Born in Bukoba-Tanzania to Goan parents Estelito Domingos Fernandes (Sanvordem) and Verda Fernandes (Quepem), Steffi Fernandes often describes herself as “a Goan girl who believes the sky is just the limit.”
“My upbringing was rich in cultural values, tradition, and community warmth, with a beautiful blend of African soul and Goan spirit. My father’s bakery in Bukoba was my first window into entrepreneurship and community service,” said Steffi.
THE COMPANY
Steffi’s academic path took her into human resources and business management, a field she has spent over three decades. Her global consultancy firm ‘Estever’ offers solutions in talent mobility, workforce strategy, business immigration, diaspora engagement, and HR systems design.
“The company creates pathways for talent across borders – connecting people, policies, and possibilities. Today, Estever operates in the UK, East Africa, India, and other regions, supporting governments and private sector clients,” said Steffi.
“Our work involves building workforce strategies, facilitating diaspora investment, and designing systems that make international mobility more inclusive and effective. We believe in creating systems that empower individuals and uplift economies.”
“I’ve been fortunate to lead strategic HR initiatives, advise multinationals on global mobility and immigration, and work with diverse, multicultural teams. My experiences across continents have shaped not just my career, but my world-view – collaboration, empathy, and agility are now at the heart of everything I do.”
THE RECOGNITION
Steffi has been recognised internationally for her work in leadership, innovation, and empowerment.
Among the many awards include the Woman Leader of the Year (HRM) (Sri Lanka-2025), Business Innovator Strategist, (UK-2024), Special Recognition – Women Empowerment (UK-2024), Female Business Leader (UK-2024), Diaspora Women for Excellence (Kenya-2024), Special Recognition – Unsung Hero (UK-2024), Global Women of Influence Award (Singapore-2024), and Women Empowerment Award (UK-2023).
In recognition of her contributions to global collaboration, Steffi was recently honoured at the Ghana Development Awards as Global Connectivity Champion for African Startups, acknowledging her role in strengthening international market access, diaspora-led investment, and cross-border partnerships for emerging African enterprises.
