News: Rons Bantwal
Mumbai, Sep 28: The contribution of CCCI to the growth of the community through faith and service is truly meaningful. As disciples of Jesus Christ, our first response must be to place our trust in God. He alone is the fortress and the foundation of stability in our lives. He is the one who holds together every aspect of our life. CCCI has played a remarkable role in service. Its efforts to unite people, to motivate and encourage them, are commendable. By honoring achievers with awards, it further inspires success, said archbishop John Rodrigues of the Archdiocese of Bombay.
The Christian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) held its 20th Annual Achievers Awards 2024-2025 on Saturday evening at the Emerald Banquet Hall, Hotel Kohinoor Continental, Andheri East, Mumbai. Archbishop John Rodrigues was present as the chief guest, presenting awards to achievers and addressing the gathering.
The annual award function was presided over by CCCI chairman Albert W D’Souza. Distinguished guests included Prof Dr Suhas Pednekar, former vice chancellor of Mumbai University, as guest of honour, CCCI founder chairman Vincent Mathias, vice chairman adv Pius Vas (awards committee convener), and immediate past chairman John Mathew.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Pednekar said, “Transformation of the nation is possible only through education. It is indeed appropriate that platforms like this invite educationists for keynote addresses, because education is the only power that can shape a nation. Education enriched with knowledge, skills, research, and training paves the way for change. Teaching is the only profession that shapes all other professions, and CCCI’s service in encouraging professionals is noteworthy.”
In his presidential address, Albert D’Souza remarked, “While we look back on our journey, we must also focus on the future ahead. The rapidly changing technology, global complexities, and deep opportunities are shaping our times. This year, two major forces have been transforming the economic and industrial sectors globally, including India—artificial intelligence (AI) and a new wave of global talent. In this context, we must respond with resilience, collaboration, and strategic adaptability. Chambers of commerce must become the voice for fair trade and extend support to members through education and guidance.”
He further added, “CCCI’s social initiatives have laid a strong foundation for milestones in our community, and I take pride in that. The values of today’s award winners are a testimony to their service in their respective fields. As CCCI steps into its 28th year of service, it will continue to actively serve society.”
The award sponsors Vincent Mathias, Albert W D’Souza, Clotilda R Siqueira, and Anthony Siqueira recognized the achievers.
• CCCI’s Velvin Packaging Pvt Ltd Social Service Award: Sister Michelle Pereira MSA (Stenography from Burnleys Institute, Fort, Bombay; stenographer at Hindustan Petroleum, Churchgate, Mumbai)
• CCCI’s Pattathu Brothers Women Entrepreneur Award: Pooja Arambhan (corporate lawyer turned HealthTech entrepreneur)
• CCCI’s Arcadia Share & Stock Brokers Pvt Ltd Excellence in Arts, Culture and Sports Award: Alfred J D’Souza (founder-chairman of the Stop-Gaps Cultural Academy)
• CCCI’s Aldel Education Trust Young Entrepreneur Award: Caleb Fernandez (co-founder of Kilowatt, an IT enterprise)
• CCCI’s Daniel & Sons Public Service Award: Nancy D’Souza (additional commissioner of customs, CGST, and central excise, Bhiwandi)
• CCCI’s Reliable Industries Excellence in Education Award: Dr Marie Fernandes (principal of St Andrew’s College of Arts, Science and Commerce)
• CCCI’s Electropneumatics & Hydraulic (I) Pvt Ltd Industry Award: Richard Cyril Rodrigues (managing partner and CEO of Karnataka Agencies, Mangaluru)
The awardees expressed their gratitude and lauded the service rendered by CCCI.
The ceremony was attended by CCCI vice presidents Agnello Rajesh Athaide and Gregory D’Souza, directors Lawrence Coelho, Ralph Pereira, Alan Castelino, Lawrence D’Souza, adv Malbin Victor, past presidents Henry Lobo, Anthony Siqueira, Prescilla Walter Buthello (permanent invitee), former police commissioner Ronnie H Mendonca, Dr Snehal Pinto, and several distinguished members.
Vernon Mathias, Denica Pereira, Rohan Tellis, Aldridge D’Souza, Reuben Buthello, adv Chaital Vas, and Alan Barboza introduced the awardees. Elvina A D’Souza and adv Genevieve P Vas honoured the guests with floral tributes. Adv Pius Vas and Gregory D’Souza introduced the guests. The programme was compered by Jonita Noronha, and Agnello Rajesh Athaide proposed the vote of thanks. The ceremony concluded with the national anthem.
Earlier in the evening, the 27th annual general body meeting of CCCI was held under the chairmanship of executive president Albert W D’Souza. Executive secretary Rohan Tellis welcomed the gathering, conducted the proceedings, and expressed gratitude.