-Peter Archibald Furtado
Global Barkurians Charitable Trust Celebrates 5 Years of Service and Unity
The Global Barkurians Charitable Trust (GBCT) marked a significant milestone with an elegant celebration of its fifth anniversary at the newly inaugurated Coastal Paradise in Sastan on Saturday evening.
The celebration, which brought together hundreds of supporters from around the world, highlighted five years of community service and humanitarian efforts spearheaded by the organization.
"Our journey has been one of unity, dedication and a shared commitment to reach the last, least and lost in our community," said Mr. Vincent D'Almeida, founder of GBCT, during his keynote address at the event.
The evening commenced at 7:30 p.m. with a warm exchange of greetings among attendees, followed by an invocation ceremony. Mr. Archibald Furtado served as the master of ceremonies, guiding guests through the program with characteristic poise.
Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda, Parish Priest of St. Peter Church, attended as the chief guest and proposed a toast to the Trust's continued success. In his address, Fr. Miranda specifically acknowledged GBCT's contributions to both the church and its Maryknoll Higher Primary School.
"Though I've only been in Barkur for two and a half years, the work GBCT has done is truly praiseworthy," Fr. Miranda remarked.
A highlight of the evening was the ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake by the parish vicar alongside present GBCT trustees including Vincent D'Almeida, Archibald Furtado, Eric Carvalho, Kishore Gonsalves, and Usha Rodrigues. The organization also recognized trustees who could not attend, including those based overseas in the UAE, UK, USA, and Muscat.
The celebration featured a special felicitation ceremony honoring notable community members. Mr. Dolphy D'Souza, recently retired after 35 years of service at Maryknoll High School in Barkur, was recognized for his contributions. Mr. and Mrs. Alwyn and Sujatha Andrade, veteran stage artists and social workers who recently celebrated their silver wedding anniversary, were also honored. In a touching moment, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent and Ida D'Almeida received special recognition for their family's ongoing dedication to serving those in need.
GBCT Trustee Mr. Eric L. Carvalho delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks before guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner at 8:50 p.m. The celebration continued with musical performances by singer Simon Lobo and several Barkurians including Franklyn Fernandes, Kishore Gonsalves, and others, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and camaraderie as gentle rains fell outside.
The evening stood as a testament to the organization's accomplishments and its vision for continued philanthropic work in the years ahead.