GLOBAL GOENKAR IN FOCUS - 1
[From L to R]: Paloma, Georgia, Fabiola, John, Desiree, Kayleigh, Natalie, and Ian at the launch of ‘A Life of Service’, the memoir of John Gomes, in Nairobi.
NAIROBI
Family, friends, former students, and dignitaries gathered at the Goan Gymkhana in Nairobi on June 7 to celebrate the launch of ‘A Life of Service’, the memoir of John Gomes, a pioneering educator, lay missionary, and community leader whose work has transformed lives across continents for over three decades.
At 91 years old, John stands as a towering figure in Kenya’s education landscape – a quiet, steadfast force whose legacy stretches across counties, classrooms, and countless lives.
THE EVENT
In her opening remarks during the launch, John’s daughter, Desiree Gomes, reflected on her father’s enduring legacy: “Dad has built a legacy that deserves to be shared. His life reminds us that material wealth is not required to make a meaningful difference. What truly matters is passion, faith, an adventurous spirit, and bold dreams that can move communities forward.”
The keynote address was delivered by Martha Karua, SC, a leading Kenyan politician and one of Gomes’s former students. She paid tribute to his influence as a teacher and mentor:
“Gomes didn’t just teach us subjects; he taught us self-worth, discipline, and courage. He believed in our potential long before we saw it in ourselves. His lessons transcended the classroom; they were lessons for life,” said Martha.
John’s students recalled memories of his impact he had had on each of their lives, at the various schools had taught between 1962 and 1992.
They said John never gave up on anyone, regardless of their financial status, disabilities, and their gender. He even gave those who were pregnant a chance to deliver the child and come back to school to continue their education, making sure that everyone had access to education.
During the event, he was entertained by little children and his past students who danced with him and cut the cake with him.
THE MEMOIR
The memoir chronicles Gomes’s inspiring journey from his humble beginnings in Goa, to his decades-long mission in Kenya, where he served as a teacher, school principal, and community builder under the Diocese of Nyeri.
Through vivid personal stories, John shares the values, challenges, and triumphs that shaped his life and the lives of thousands he mentored and uplifted during his years of service.
The memoir also highlights the important role Gomes played in championing girls’ education and promoting justice and equity through service.
The book also includes heartfelt contributions from colleagues, students, and friends, offering glimpses into Gomes’s humour, humility, and unwavering commitment to service.
Even in his 90s, he still continues to support local causes, including the Mother Teresa Homes and St Stephen’s School in Githogoro, reflecting a lifelong dedication to uplifting the vulnerable.
EARLY LIFE IN GOA
Speaking to The Goan earlier this year while on a vacation in Goa, John, who hails from Navelim, said he studied in Loiola High School and Popular High School in Margao. He then proceeded to pursue his B.SC honours in chemistry at the National College, Bandra.
“In 1955, I taught for about 6 months in Model (Bhatikar) HS in Margao, followed by six months of research in iron ore for Chowgule’s in Vasco,” recalled John.
MOVING TO YEMEN AND KENYA
John then received call from Aden in Yemen to teach in a mission school.
“In 1956, I took a boat from Goa and proceeded to Aden, and began teaching in a missionary school, St Anthony’s School in Aden. I adjusted well and even learnt Arabic,” said John.
“About three years later, I happened to meet a priest who was a superior at the mission school run by the Consulata Catholic Missions (CCM). He invited me to Kenya and within 8 days, sent me the work permit. I then returned from Aden to Goa and stayed for a few months, before proceeding to Kenya in 1960.”
Gomes arrived in Nyeri-Kenya in 1960 as a young, idealistic teacher. Over the next three decades, he would leave an indelible mark on schools in Central Kenya, remembered not only for academic excellence, but for the compassion and discipline he brought to every child he taught.
[To be continued]
