Panel floated to contest elections to the Goa Cultural Association, formerly known as the Goan Welfare Association, which has been approved by the Indian Cultural Centre under the aegis of the Embassy of India, Qatar
PANAJI
The Goan community in Qatar will participate in elections to the committee at the new Goa Cultural Association (GCA), formerly known as the Goan Welfare Association (GWA), on November 28.
The Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), which operates under the aegis of the Embassy of India, Qatar has approved the GCA and has announced the commencement of membership registration for the new Goan association, the sole recognised Goan body under the ICC.
Following this announcement, the Goan community has presented its panel of nominees for the upcoming elections.
Roldão Fernandes, a banker hailing from Cansaulim–Verna and raised in Qatar, leads the panel as the presidential candidate, while Dr Queenie Fernandes, born and raised in Qatar and hailing from Aldona, is the candidate for the vice-president.
Other members of Roldão’s panel include Mario D’Costa (General Secretary), Larissa Abraham (Joint General Secretary), Emmanuel [Neville] Azavedo (Treasurer), Sebastian Mascarenhas (Cultural & Events Secretary), Martin Mascarenhas (Sports Secretary), Carol Gonsalves (Social & Welfare Secretary), Armstrong Vas (Public Relations & Social Media Secretary), and Liberata Fernandes with Trecilda Pereira as Committee Members.
The eleven-member panel has been constituted in accordance with the GCA’s Constitution.
John Desa, who actively campaigned for the reopening of membership, said a majority of the candidates in the panel are youth and young adults, many of whom were born and raised in Qatar, signifying a generational shift and renewed enthusiasm within the community.
“With membership enrolment surging, Qatar Goans are eagerly anticipating this historic election — the first in more than two decades — marking a new democratic and united chapter in the life of the Goan community in Qatar,” said John Desa.
When asked for his views on the forthcoming elections of the GCA, Desa remarked: “In any community association, it is the collective will of the community that must remain supreme — not an individual leader.”
“Leaders may change with time, but the strength and spirit of the community must always endure.”
Filomeno Alves, president of the GWA Revival Team, also welcomed the development.
“After exhausting all possible avenues, we requested the Embassy of India and the ICC to intervene with the GWA on behalf of the Goan community to reopen its membership — and it has finally paid off with positive results.”
He added that such a prolonged absence of elections within a Goan association is unprecedented across the Goan diaspora, underscoring the importance of restoring transparency, participation, and democratic governance within the community.
Alves stated that the GCA is now the sole Goan association for the Goan community in Qatar.
NEW IDENTITY, ASSOCIATION
In an email to the GWA on July 23, ICC President Manikantan AP had stated that the ICC had received complaints against the GWA and had held discussions with stakeholders, Embassy of India officials and ICC office bearers in this connection.
“As per the directions received from the Embassy of India, ‘Goan Welfare Association’ under the aegis of the Indian Cultural Centre will be renamed as ‘Goa Cultural Association’,” stated Manikantan.
Manikantan had made it clear that the “Embassy of India also expects the name ‘Goan Welfare Association’ to be ceased for any further usage even in the private capacity and that no past or present executive committee member of GWA shall revive this name in future.”
John Desa, who was also part of the GWA Revival Team, said the change of name from GWA to GCA was carried out upon the request of GWA, but added that the ICC decision was a triumph for every Goan in Qatar who stood with courage, patience, and quiet determination.
Roldão Fernandes, who has been associated with the Goan community in Qatar for over 40 years and leads a panel as its presidential candidate, said he had chosen to contest elections to the newly formed Goa Cultural Association (GCA) because it was time to take a decisive action.
“It was time to walk the talk. I’ve seen how community organisations can either uplift or overlook the very people they’re meant to serve. My decision was driven by a desire to bring about a change that will leave a lasting legacy for years to come,” said Roldão, when asked about his decision to contest the elections.
“The youth of today will have a strong framework to build upon—one that empowers them to preserve and enrich our already rich heritage here in Qatar. I’m very grateful to have the backing of committed individuals in the committee who believe in this vision. Their support has strengthened my resolve to step forward and serve.”
Asked about his plans and projects proposed for the Goan community in Qatar, Roldão replied, “My vision is centred on inclusivity, collaboration, vibrancy, accountability and being future-ready.”
“Some of the key initiatives we propose include uniting Goans under one roof to accomplish common goals, which in turn will foster a stronger sense of community. We also plan year-round events that celebrate Goan culture, promote wellness and create opportunities for networking and family engagement.”
“Other initiatives include organising tournaments of major sports and setting up multiple sports groups to encourage fitness, teamwork and pride in our identity and launching workshops and mentorship programmes that connect younger Goans with our rich heritage, language, traditions and upskilling opportunities.
“We plan to support local Goan talent through events, showcases and partnerships — especially for those exploring music and the arts. We also propose to implement clear communication channels and feedback systems so every member knows how decisions are made and how funds are used.”
In his message to the Goan community in Qatar, Roldão appealed to them to move beyond passive participation and embrace active community-building.
“Our culture is vibrant, our people are resourceful and our future is ours to shape. I invite everyone to join us—not just in voting, but in voicing, volunteering and being part of a community that reflects our values and aspirations. Together, we will build something truly meaningful—something that becomes the template for others to follow,” he added.
Dr Queenie Fernandes said she had decided to contest elections in the newly formed Goa Cultural Association (GCA) because, as someone who was born and raised in Qatar, she felt the absence of a common ground that truly unites Goans in the region.
“My decision to step up as a candidate for vice-president stems from a desire to change that narrative, to take the first step in bridging this gap and to lead by example in fostering the unity and connection the community long deserves,” said Dr Queenie.
Commenting on her plans and projects proposed for the Goan community in Qatar, Dr Queenie said, “In this historic moment, as the GCA rises as a beacon of unity, hope, solidarity, welfare, and the joyful celebration of Goan culture and life, I step forward to secure this foundation for us and shape a vibrant legacy for the generations to come.”
She added that her mission is to drive transformative change and lead with impact.
“More specifically, as a leader and innovator in science and technology in the region, I strive to ignite curiosity, spark exploration, and guide young minds toward the limitless potential of science and emerging technologies,” said Dr Queenie.
“I aim to empower the next generation to envision new possibilities, push boundaries, and make informed, confident career choices. Above all, I seek to unite the community to unlock endless possibilities to dream boldly, think fearlessly, and inspire others as we aspire to excellence.”
In her message to the Goan community in Qatar, Dr Queenie said, “The path to success is paved when we stride forward as one. I am deeply thrilled for the chapter ahead as we come together to witness history in the making. United, we uplift. Inspired, we shine.”
