THE GOAN NETWORK | VANCOUVER
Over 120 Goans from various parts of Vancouver came together at the Buck & Ear Bar & Grill in Steveston, Richmond, Vancouver BC, on October 16 to attend the Pub Night hosted by the Goan Overseas Association (GOA) Vancouver.
GOA Vancouver President John Braganza said all the Goans came together, had lots of fun, dance, food and music, with new and old collaborations under one roof.
“It was a mix and mingle event where our community members joined us and enjoyed an evening of music, cheer, laughter or just swing and sway to the great music."
The event was an attempt to enable Goans to connect with each other, while enjoying music performed by a band formed by Goan musicians, Paul Pereira (drums), Ruan D'Souza (bass guitar), Merwyn Sequeira (lead guitar), Neville Noronha (rhythm guitar), Clifford Almeida (keyboard) and Ivo (vocals), while Doris Amaral enthralled the audience by singing famous Konkani songs.
A Goan youth band, comprising Giles Fernandes, Sherwin Lucas and Jaden Sequeira, also performed at the event, drawing applause from the appreciative audience.
The Pub Night also included a number of fun-filled activities such as 50/50 and Toonie Toss.
John Braganza along with his team Beatrice Pereira, Caroline D'Sa, Crystal-Ann Lobo, Darryl Fernandes and Palmira Braganza, worked behind the scene to make such events possible for the Goan community.
The volunteers, Stacy Fernandes, Judith Braganza and Bina Dsouza assisted at the entrance with tickets, while Judith, Palmira, Beatrice, Bina helping with the sale of the 50/50 tickets. Bonita Noronha and Priya Das provided support with the sale of tickets for the game and Shona Lobo organised the game at the event. Joe Pinto was the MC at the event.
John Braganza thanked the Goan community for showing up and offering support to the event, while coming to listen to music from a band formed within the Goan community.
He also had a word of praise for Maurice Fernandes, who provided the sound system for the event.
John Braganza said the Pub Night is one of many events organised by GOA Vancouver to spend time with the Goan community.
“We share some great moments laughing, dancing and playing games together to celebrate our Goa spirit,” he said.
