Media Release

Dubai, Mar 25: One of the oldest and most prestigious associations in the GCC, Mangalore Konkans Dubai, unanimously elected Stephen Menezes Vamanjoor as the president of this 37-year-old association, making him one of the youngest presidents in its history.

During the annual general body meeting held at Winny’s Restaurant, Karama, on March 18, the new committee of Mangalore Konkans Dubai was formed under the guidance of past president James Mendonca. He briefly explained the legacy of the association and the socio-cultural work it has done over the past 35 years since 1988. He also stressed the importance of serving humanity, community, culture, and language. James mentioned how the by-laws of Mangalore Konkans Dubai are designed to support the organization’s mission and called on the new committee to commit themselves to its motto.

Newly elected Executive Committee

• President: Stephen Menezes
• Vice president: Rajesh Sequeira
• Secretary: Engride Goldina D’Souza
• Treasurer: Melroy Pinto
• Media coordinator: Ashith Pinto

Newly elected president Stephen Menezes thanked the association members for trusting in his abilities and giving him this prestigious position. He assured his dedication and commitment to upholding the legacy of Mangalore Konkans Dubai and enhancing its activities to serve humanity and Konkani culture.

Meet the new leadership team

Stephen Menezes – President

Hailing from St Joseph the Worker Church, Vamanjoor, Stephen is a well-known actor, comedian, playwright, poet, and director in the Konkani entertainment scene. He has won multiple awards, including prizes for dancing at events organized by Konkani Natak Sabha, Mangaluru. He played a key role as the main coordinator of the Mangalore Konkans Family Fiesta, which took place on December 8, 2024, at the Sharjah Wanderers Sports Club, attended by 2,000 people. As president, his goal is to provide fresh direction to the association and wholeheartedly serve the community. Professionally, he is the managing director of Reach Me Advertising Company.

Rajesh Sequeira – Vice president

Rajesh Sequeira has been recognized for his instrumental role in establishing Mangaluru as an international airport and facilitating direct flights from Gulf countries.

A dedicated leader from Holy Cross Church, Cordel, Rajesh is a multi-talented individual known for his contributions to various fields. He is a gifted singer, musician, public speaker, actor, and master of ceremonies, captivating audiences with his charisma and dynamic presence. His exceptional event-organizing skills and impactful motivational speeches have garnered him great respect within the community.

Currently working as an aircraft engineer for a reputed airline in the UAE, Rajesh is also a light sport aircraft pilot. He seamlessly combines his professional expertise with his passion for social work, youth empowerment, and environmental conservation. His dedication and pursuit of excellence inspire many, making him a beacon of hope and progress.

Melroy Clement Pinto – Treasurer

Hailing from St Sebastian Church, Bendoor, Melroy is a highly disciplined and organized professional, known for his meticulous approach to work. Holding an MCom in Finance, a PGDHRM, and a Certified Fraud Examiners (CFE) certification, he serves as a manager (GRC and operations) at Curtin University Dubai.

Engride Goldina D’Souza – Secretary

Affiliated with Our Lady of Fatima Church, Perampalli, Udupi, Goldina has embraced strong leadership qualities and a commitment to community service, inspired by her father, Eric Perampalli, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. While currently pursuing a career in finance, she is also a talented keyboard player.

Ashith Pinto – Media coordinator

Belonging to Infant Jesus Church, Modankap, Bantwal, Ashith holds a master’s degree in management and is known for his event-organizing expertise. Under his leadership, numerous successful events have been organized across the UAE, India, and other GCC countries.

Advisory board

The newly appointed advisory board includes esteemed former presidents and seasoned leaders:

• James Mendonca
• Alwyn Pinto
• Sonali Fernandes
• Floyd Kiran Moras
• Agnel Fernandes
• Roshan D'Silva

James Mendonca – Former president & Advisory Board member

James served as the president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai for 17 years (2003-2008, 2010-2015, 2018-March 2025), contributing significantly to the growth and success of the organization. His leadership helped expand the association’s reach, making Mangalore Konkans Dubai a well-respected name in the community.

Many major events were organized during his tenure, including Gulf Voice of Mangalore, Konkani Sports Meet, Wilfy’s Sentimental Nite, Lorna’s Musical Show, the Konkani play Bangar Monis, and the 25th-year celebration in 2013. He thanked all the past and present members for their support and cooperation over the years.

About Mangalore Konkans Dubai

Mangalore Konkans Dubai was established in 1988 with the core mission of promoting the Konkani language and culture among the Mangalorean diaspora in the UAE. The organization also extends financial support to the Mangalorean community in Dubai and the Dakshina Kannada district.

Over the years, Mangalore Konkans Dubai has remained true to its mission, emerging as a major force in the UAE while actively preserving Konkani traditions and cultural heritage.

Mangalore Konkans Dubai is the only association from the UAE to receive an award from the president of India, Pratibha Patil, on December 9, 2010, at the World Konkani Convention’s Ekta Divas, organized by Mandd Sobhann, Mangaluru, in recognition of its valuable contribution to the preservation and enrichment of Konkani culture in the UAE.

Key contributions and achievements

• First association of Mangaloreans in the UAE (established in 1988)
• Organized the first Konkani Way of the Cross in the UAE
• Introduced the first Nativity Feast for children with flower showering at the grotto
• Founded the first Konkani choir at St Mary’s Church, Dubai
• Instrumental in deputing a Konkani-speaking priest to Dubai, leading to the start of a permanent Konkani Mass

Major events organized

• Grand May Queen Ball
• Konkani King & Queen Contest
• Konkani Milan
• Family Fiesta
• Wilfy Sentimental Night
• Lorna’s Musical Evening
• Felicitations for Bishop Dr Aloysius P D’Souza
• Konkani dramas & sports meets
• Talent shows & Konkani singing competitions
• Parental guidance & medical seminars
• Leadership training & personality development programs
• Cookery contests
• Teenage to Adulthood seminar
• Mega Konkani concerts
• Speech craft & life skills workshops
• Gulf Voice of Mangalore

Philanthropic initiatives

In addition to cultural and community events, Mangalore Konkans Dubai has also established several charity and welfare programs:

• Education & medical trust fund with CODP Mangaluru
• Cancer patients aid fund with Fr Muller Mangaluru
• Wilfy Rebimbus Memorial Best Singer Award with Sandesha Foundation

With its new leadership and dedicated advisory board, Mangalore Konkans Dubai continues its mission to uplift the Konkani community, preserve its cultural roots, and create a strong platform for Mangaloreans in the UAE.