Media Release
Bengaluru, Aug 27: The Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations (FKCA) held its 28th Annual General Body Meeting on August 24 at Konkan Samudhai Bhavan, Bengaluru, where Anthony Gonsalves was unanimously elected as chairman for the year 2025–26. The gathering witnessed the participation of over 150 delegates representing various Konkani Catholic associations.
The day began with a solemn Holy Mass, celebrated by Dr Fr Francis Assisi Almeida, spiritual director of FKCA. The liturgy was coordinated by KONCAB, with the choir led by cultural secretary Sharon Rego. Choir groups from KCA Yeshwanthpur, Konkani Samudai, Sezari, St Vincent Palotti Konkani Kutam, MKCK Mudla, BKCS, and KCWA R T Nagar lent their melodious voices to the celebration. The formal proceedings of the AGM were compered by emcee Kiran D’Souza, who conducted the event with elegance and clarity.
Chairman Robert Cutinha welcomed the gathering and highlighted the milestones achieved by FKCA during the past year. General secretary Vincent D’Souza presented a comprehensive annual report detailing the federation’s initiatives, followed by treasurer Zaveena Lobo, who placed before the members the audited financial statements for 2024–25.
The occasion was marked by the presence of former chairmen Valerian Fernandes, Charles Gomes, Aida D’Cunha, Victor Edward D’Souza, Silvian Noronha, Dr Anand Edward D’Souza, and Arun Fernandes. The auditors, M/s Nanjunda & Co., represented by Shashikala, were reappointed for the new term.
The election of new office-bearers was conducted under the leadership of chief returning officer Sylvester D’Souza, a veteran leader of KONCAB and retired RBI manager, supported by election officers Jhonus D’Souza, Sunil D’Cunha, Gregory Fernandes, and Harold Lewis.
The newly elected FKCA Office Bearers for 2025–26 are:
? Chairman: Anthony Gonsalves
? Vice chairman I: Sharon Rego
? Vice chairman II: William Pinto
? General secretary: Zaveena Lobo
? Joint secretary I: Noel Sequeira
? Joint secretary II: Ida Sequeira
? Treasurer: Paul Rodrigues
? Cultural secretary: Nishal Preetham D’Souza
? Legal advisor: Anil Albert D’Souza
? Spiritual director: Dr Fr Francis Assisi Almeida
? Immediate past chairman: Robert Cutinha
? Immediate past general secretary: Vincent D’Souza
The AGM proceedings were beautifully captured through the lens by photographer Vikram D’Almeida, while videographer Joel Galbao documented the event. Blue Bird Caterers served authentic Mangalorean cuisine, which was well appreciated by the gathering.
The meeting concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by joint secretary Peter Anil Rego, marking the close of a significant and inspiring day for the Federation.