The United Goans of Fatorda committee members [from L to R]: Treasurer Lino Fernandes, General Secretary Bosco Ribeiro, Member Jandira Ribeiro, Angela Fernandes, President Alvito Dias and Joint Secretary Anthony Miranda.
LONDON
The United Goans of Fatorda (UGF) United Kingdom organised its fourth annual dine and dance at St John's Community Hall, Wembley UK on October 10.
The event, which was hosted to celebrate the feast of the Our Lady of Rosary Church at Fatorda, was managed by UGF President Alvito Dias, General Secretary Bosco Ribeiro and Treasurer Lino Fernandes. A number of Fatordekars, along with fellow Goans, were present at the annual dine and dance.
The event started with a procession and a litany in Konkani, followed by the cutting of the celebration cake of Mother Mary.
There was a wide lineup of entertaining performances, which included DJ Rick Nicks, Polly de Cutorim and Shubert one-man band, as all musicians kept the crowd on the dancing floor. The event was compered by MC Anthony Miranda, who engaged the audience throughout the event.
There were a variety of spot prizes, while the Rosary Queen contest was won by Diana Abreu from Portugal. Catering was provided by Alfred Camara.
Councillor Angela Joyce De Souza from Wembley Hill Ward and Councillor Hetal Jansali from Wembley Central Ward were felicitated by UGF General Secretary Bosco Ribeiro and Treasurer Lino Fernandes.
In her address, Joyce De Souza said she has been attending the feast all four years and felt it a privilege to be at the event every time. She praised the organising committee for its hard work in bringing the community together every year at the annual event.
“Events like this keep our community united. I would encourage everyone to tell their friends and family and come together to celebrate under one roof. The most important thing is that we support community events and support our local businesses. Let us support each other as one community and stand united,” she said.
Councillor Hetal Jansali appreciated the organisers and the gathering for their dedication to keep Goan traditions alive and thriving in the UK.
“Please know that your local council stands by your side, supporting your initiatives and community spirit,” said Jansali.
When contacted, UGF General Secretary Bosco Ribeiro said the UGF had provided support to the Our Lady of Rosary Church at Fatorda during its first annual dine and dance event.
“The UGF has plans for future programmes and they are being discussed by the committee. We will be working on plans to celebrate the fifth anniversary next year,” said Ribeiro.
