Diana Fernandes
Margao
History was created on Tuesday as 60 Goans settled in the UK were honoured at The Palace of Westminster, commonly called the Houses of Parliament, for their contributions to that country.
Celebrating the contributions of Goans in the UK in various sectors, the event was held by the Labour party MPs Will Stone and Heidi Alexander at the House of Commons. The event was co-hosted by councillors Imtiyaz and his wife Adorabelle Shaikh. They were also presented with memorable mementos.
Thousands of Goans have made the UK their home over the years. Speaking about the work of the Goan diaspora in the UK, Imtiyaz, who is the first Goan mayor of Swindon said, “Goans are not limited to opportunities that the UK has provided them and their families. We have young Goans studying to become barristers; some have joined the armed forces and politics, while others work in hospitality, healthcare, social care, education and business. The list can go on and on.”
He further said, “We have created history today at The Palace of Westminster. We commemorated the occasion at such a wonderful place full of history of its own, by recognising the UK Goans for their contributions.”
The event titled, ‘Recognition of the UK Goan Diaspora’ was held at Jubilee Room in Westminster Hall. It brought together key people from the community from across the country.
Adorabelle said that it has been Goan community’s dream to get recognition on this scale for the contributions made in the UK.
“Our Swindon Labour MPs Heidi Alexander and Will Stone worked with us to make this dream a reality. We Goans have made UK our home and continue to make contributions to its rich and diverse background,” Adorabelle said.
“The Labour MPs worked with Imtiyaz and me to commemorate the contribution of the Goans in the UK for all their works and achievements,” she said.
Speaking on the occasion, MP Heidi Alexander said it was an honour to host the Goan community in the Parliament.
“As the Member of Parliament for Swindon South, I know what a vital contribution the Goan diaspora make to our country’s economic and cultural life. We are so proud in Swindon to have brilliant councillors of Goan heritage and to have one of them, Imtiyaz Shaikh serve as the town’s mayor this year. Alongside his brilliant wife Adorabelle, they really are a political force of nature and I am proud to call them my friends,” said Alexander.
MP Will Stone added, “This event is a testament to the fantastic connections between the Goan community and its elected officials. I would also like to extend my thanks to both councillors Imtiyaz and Adorabelle Shaikh for their support in making this happen.”
