LONDON
The Goan association ‘V‑GOANIZZ’ hosted its 6th annual carol singing competition, a vibrant celebration of Goan culture, Christmas spirit, and community unity in Swindon on December 21.
What began in 2018 as a small initiative to bring Goan families together in Swindon has now grown into one of the leading festive events in the local calendar. After a brief pause during the COVID years, the event has returned with renewed energy, purpose, and participation.
THE EVENT
The event drew an estimated 300 attendees, who supported the performers and enjoy the festive atmosphere. MC Delsy Goes kept the audience engaged with her warmth and humour, while Father Christmas delighted the children with his cheerful presence and festive surprises.
This year, 180 children took part across various performances, showcasing talent, enthusiasm, and cultural pride of the younger generation. The main competition featured seven carol‑singing groups, each presenting three carols—one of which had to be in Konkani, a rule that keeps Goa’s linguistic heritage alive.
Alongside the singing groups, the programme included one instrumental group, a lively Kunbi folk dance, a traditional Goan Mando, two fusion dance groups, and a heart‑warming Christmas play. The diversity of performances reflected the richness of Goan traditions and the creativity of the Goan community in Swindon.
‘Zogzogit Noketram’ won the first prize (£150 + rolling trophy), singing all three carols in Konkani. Having won for the last three years, they finally took the trophy home permanently. ‘Porzolit Noketram’ secured second place (£100), while ‘The True Believers’ earned 3rd place (£75).
Other participating groups included Merry Mistletoe, Snowflakes of Badbury, Nova Vista Musica, and St Mary’s Church Choir, each adding their own charm to the evening.
The event also featured touching musical moments. The opening song, performed by Agnelo Lobo, was a heartfelt tribute to the work V‑GOANIZZ has done to uplift the community.
In the second half, the Falcao sisters—Elsie, Mary, and Emilia—sang a Christmas opening piece. Solo performances by Gregg Carvalho and Santan de Reading added further richness to the programme.
A live band filled the hall with Christmas and Goan music between performances, adding to the festive spirit.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion with their support. The chief guest, Fr Nnam Di Obi, shared inspiring words about unity and cultural preservation.
Deputy Mayor of Swindon, Councillor Neil Hopkins, was the Guest of Honour, along with Councillor Sudha Nukana, representing Rodbourne Cheney, and Sister Ann from the Holy Family convent. Their presence highlighted the growing recognition of Goan contributions to Swindon’s multicultural community.
To make the evening even more special, every child who participated received an individual Christmas gift, a gesture that brought pure joy to their faces and reinforced the spirit of giving that defines the season.
No Goan event is complete without delicious food, and the canteen served favourites such as Goan Bhoji, Cutlet Pau, chicken lollipops, sweetcorn, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and more. The organisers extend their gratitude to the sponsors—Taste of Bharat, Hungry & Thirsty, and MomoKing—for their generous support.
THE FELICITATION
A special highlight of the evening was the felicitation ceremony, where V‑GOANIZZ presented community awards for outstanding individual achievement, dedication & support to nine individuals: Agnelo Lobo, Rocky Britto, Roque Caldeira, Nyla Britto, Rouchell Cardoso, Stefeney Viegas, Netty Vas, Piedade Fernandes, and Aiden Vaz, who was recognised as a young and dedicated keyboard player. These awards honoured their contributions to the Goan community in Swindon and beyond.
THE ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Natasha Vas, Founder and Director of V‑GOANIZZ Swindon UK who hails from Agassaim, expressed her gratitude to every parent, volunteer, performer, and supporter.
“Our mission is simple yet powerful: to keep our Goan culture alive, to ensure every child understands the true meaning of Christmas & participates with joy, and to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ as a united community,” said Natasha.
Behind the scenes, Nastasha said a dedicated team ensured the event ran smoothly. Morvil Cabral captured the evening through professional videography, while Destiny Fernandes photographed the special moments. Gregg Carvalho, tiatr coordinator from London, had generously sponsored the event lighting, creating a beautiful stage atmosphere.
“Our 7th Annual Carol Singing Competition will take place on December 20. The journey continues, and V‑GOANIZZ remains committed to nurturing talent, strengthening community bonds, and celebrating our heritage with pride,” Natasha added.
The members of V-GOANIZZ are Natasha Vas, Rocky Britto, Nyla Britto, Roque Caldeira, Savio Gonsalves, Agnelo Estrocio, Antonbab, Elias Aguiar and Collin Fernandes.
