Also plans to revive sporting activities at the institute, which is one of oldest Goan associations in the world
The new Managing Committee at The Goan Institute in Mombasa. (L to R, front row): Mariella Barreto, Inderjeet Matin, Michaela Nicholls, Max Noronha, and Denise Pereira. (L to R, back row): Ranford Braganza, Oliver Mascarenhas, Kavraj Birdi, Tremayne D'Souza and Tony D'SiIva.
PANAJI
A new committee was recently elected at the 123rd annual general body meeting of The Goan Institute (GI) in Mombasa-Kenya, one of the oldest Goan associations in the world, which was set up in 1902.
The new team of office-bearers consists of Ivan Fernandes (Director of Meetings), while the Board of Trustees comprises Agnelo D'Souza, Patrick Pereira (Secretary), Larian Abreu (Treasurer), Nevil D'Souza and Angelo Pereira (Members).
The Managing Committee elected consists of Max Noronha (Chairman), Denise Pereira (Vice Chairlady), Tremayne D'Souza (Hon. General Secretary), Ranford Braganza (Hon. Treasurer), Kavraj Birdi (House Representative), Tony D'Silva (Sports Secretary), Mariella Barreto (Socials Secretary), Michaela Nicholls (Co-Ordinator - Committee Member), Oliver Mascarenhas (Co-Ordinator - Committee Member), Inderjeet Main (Co-Ordinator - Committee Member) and Tyrell D'Souza (Internal Auditor).
In a message to the GI, Max Noronha expressed his gratitude to members for placing their trust in him and his team to lead the institute.
“The Institute has always been more than just a club; it is our second home, a family space built on fellowship, friendship and goodwill, and we are excited to carry that spirit forward together,” said Noronha.
“This year is a milestone in that for the first time the Managing Committee will focus primarily on the Sports Complex. We are also working on reviving the sporting activities of the club.”
“With a strong blend of young first-time office bearers in the Managing Committee alongside experienced leaders, we are confident of guiding the Club to greater heights. We have planned a variety of affordable and fun socials to keep everyone connected.”
Noronha stated that with the support and enthusiasm of members, the Managing Committee hopes to create a lively and happy atmosphere for all.
While inviting more members to join in the activities and enjoy the hospitality of the institution, Noronha has welcomed ideas and suggestions as the Managing Committee strives to improve the institute.
ACTIVITIES
The GI has planned a number of activities for members and non-members.
The ‘Seniors And Juniors Jamboree’ will be organised on October 5 from 12 noon onwards, and the event will include a lot of indoor and outdoor games like Blind Darts, Trook, Board Games, and Foot Tennis, among others. Members are free to bring their own games. The event will include lunch and tea.
This year, the Goan Institute will celebrate its 124th anniversary with Holy Mass and dinner/dance, the dates of which will be decided at a later date. As part of the festive season, the GI will also organise a Christmas Tree Party and Barbecue (December 20), Midnight Mass (December 24) and New Year's Eve Dinner/Dance (December 31).
HISTORY
The Goan Institute in Mombasa has been an enduring symbol of the Goan diaspora's presence and impact in East Africa.
The GI was established by Goan migrants in 1902 who moved to East Africa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often for administrative and railway jobs in the British colonial government, and also for trade.
Like other Goan institutes in the region, such as those in larger towns like Nairobi, Kampala, and Dar-es-Salam, the GI served as an important social, cultural, and institutional hub for the Goan community, fostering a sense of shared heritage and community in a new cultural context. It provided a central space for the community to gather, organise, and preserve their cultural identity.
