Over 60 Goans honoured in UK for their contribution to society

Panaji: Over 60 Goans in the UK participated in an event on Tuesday held at the Westminster palace to recognise the contribution of the Goan community in the UK. Swindon Labour MPs Heidi Alexander and Will Stone, along with the first Goan mayor of Swindon, Imtiaz Shaikh, and his wife and councillor Adorabelle Shaikh, organised ‘Recognition of the UK Goan Diaspora’ for the Goans from Swindon as well as from Wembley, Southall, Hayes and other parts of London who have contributed to the armed forces, medical field, engineering, police, business, corporate sector and hospitality, among others.

Adorabelle, councillor for central ward and cabinet member for education, told TOI that history was created in the palace of Westminster by recognising UK Goans and their contribution. “Goans have made the UK their home and continue to make contributions to the UK’s rich, diverse background. Goans are not limited to opportunities that the UK has provided to them and their families,” she said.

“As the member of parliament for Swindon, I know the vital contribution Goan diaspora plays in our country’s economic and cultural life,” said MP Heidi Alexander.