LONDON
The Goan community treated grandparents and children to a special event in Swindon on September 27.
‘The Smiling Stars’ organised its first annual event at the Broadgreen Community Centre, and the chief guests were Swindon’s Labour Councillor, Domingos Seby Dias, along with his wife, Eunice Luis.
The event started with a prayer by Veclav Miranda, where all children sang the hymn ‘Ave Maria’ with great enthusiasm. Then, the children, along with grandparents, cut the cake.
The joy of dancing and music came alive with the young band ‘The Rising Stars’, comprising Addision Fernandes (9) on vocals, along with vocals and lead guitarist Nyla Britto (12), Aaron Fernandes (12) on the keyboard and Clide Melo (14) on the drums. They performed a selection of English, Hindi, and Konkani songs.
Rosemary Marcelo was the MC at the event, and other activities included dance performances, games, one-act plays, solo/duo/trio singing and spot prizes.
In his address, Councillor Domingos Dias, who had also supported the event, conveyed motivating thoughts to the children. In an interactive session, he asked the children what message they would take from this event. A number of children replied that the precious time with grandparents, quality time with family, patience of grandparents, and enthusiasm of grandparents to watch their grandchildren were among the many special moments at the event.
Domingos thanked the South Swindon Parish for presenting certificates to all participants and also expressed his gratitude to the parents and grandparents for attending the event.
Free snacks, drinks, dinner and sweets were presented at the gathering. The children took away goodies and many spot prizes.
“The event was appreciated within the Goan community, as most events otherwise are organised for adults,” said Domingos.
‘The Smiling Stars’ team consisted of Lurdina Rodrigues, Rosemary Marcelo, Leonor Fernandes, Rosita Rodrigues, Fiola Afonso, George Rodrigues and Acacio Fernandes.
When contacted, Domingos explained the purpose of supporting the event for children and grandparents.
“One of the core members, Lurdina Rodrigues said, it was her dream to make come up with something for children and grandparents to get together and spend some quality time,” said Domingos.
“This is because, most parents have a very busy life and do not fully understand the importance of work-life balance. Lurdina then shared this idea with his husband. Acacio Fernandes, who discussed the matter with me.”
“I was immediately in favour of the event and assured them of my full support. Going by the smiles and joy among children and grandparents at the event, there is no reason for us not to organise it annually.”
Domingos informed that there are plans to register the newly former group ‘The Smiling Stars’ with authorities.
Asked about the activities they plan to organise in future, Domingos replied: “This was a first of its kind event. We have plan to start a children’s choir in Konkani and we also plan to have more events and gatherings with children and Senior Citizens in Swindon.”
