Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Nov 3: Prominent NRI entrepreneur, philanthropist and authorpreneur Michael D’Souza of Dubai was conferred the prestigious title ‘Konknecho Rakon Bhodvo’ (Guardian Angel of Konkani) in recognition of his immense contribution to promoting the Konkani language, culture and talent. The title-conferring ceremony took place during the ‘Sumadhur 3’ concert organised by Sumadhur Sangeet Academy at the Father Muller Convention Centre, Mangaluru.
Over the years, Michael D’Souza has actively supported numerous charitable initiatives and educational programmes. Among his most impactful contributions is the EDUCARE Programme, an interest-free educational fund of Rs 25 crore established by Michael D’Souza and his family in association with the Canara Organization for Development and Peace (CODP) and Sampada Udupi. Through this initiative, more than 4,000 academically talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds have pursued higher education in fields such as medicine, engineering, nursing and management, transforming their futures and improving their families’ financial circumstances.
His commitment to social causes extends well beyond a single initiative. He has contributed generously to educational, social and charitable institutions, including St Aloysius Institutions, St Agnes Institutions, St Joseph Engineering College and St Philomena College, as well as the dioceses of Mangalore, Udupi, Karwar and Gulbarga, along with several other non-profit organisations. His overall contributions towards societal development exceed Rs 100 crore.
During the event, Michael D’Souza was felicitated with a traditional shawl, a memento and a citation by distinguished dignitaries, including Fr Praveen Martis, SJ (vice-chancellor, St Aloysius Deemed to be University); Fr Walter D’Souza (parish priest, Bendur); Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza, OFM Cap (vicar provincial, Capuchin Province of Karnataka); Fr Arun Lobo (director, Catholic Action League, Bendur); Walter Nandalike (founder, Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd); Anil Lobo (chairman, MCC Bank Ltd); Stany Alvares (president, Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy); renowned Konkani singer Joyce Ozario; and Prakash Kishore D’Souza, founder of Sumadhur Sangeet Academy.
Joshal D’Souza read the citation and officially announced the conferment of the title on behalf of Prakash Kishore D’Souza, co-founder of Sumadhur Sangeet Academy, and the students of the institution.
Acknowledging the honour, Michael D’Souza said, “When we give even a little to society, God blesses us abundantly. I have experienced this firsthand in my personal life—anyone who gives to society never faces loss. I started sharing a portion of my income where society needed it most. Education, healthcare, and community welfare have the power to transform lives, and meaningful change often begins with a single act of generosity.”
He also praised the academy’s efforts, adding, “I congratulate Joshal and her husband Prakash for establishing one of the premier vocal training centres in town. We all know Joshal is an exceptionally talented singer, and her training will help produce hundreds of talented singers in the coming years. We must all support her and her institute. I also congratulate all the students performing on stage at the Sumadhur concert today.”
He concluded by sharing his vision of a future in which those with the means actively choose to invest in others, creating opportunities that uplift not just individuals but entire families and communities for generations to come.