Dubai: Mangalore Konkans Dubai (MKD), one of the oldest and most prestigious associations in the GCC, has unanimously elected Stephen Menezes Vamanjoor as its new president. At just 37 years old, Menezes becomes one of the youngest leaders in the association’s history.
The election took place during MKD’s annual general body meeting at Winny’s Restaurant, Karama, under the guidance of former president James Mendonca. Mendonca highlighted the legacy of MKD, which has been actively promoting socio-cultural initiatives since its inception in 1988.
New Executive Committee
The newly elected executive team for 2025 includes:
🔹 President: Stephen Menezes
🔹 Vice President: Rajesh Sequeira
🔹 Secretary: Engride Goldina D’Souza
🔹 Treasurer: Melroy Pinto
🔹 Media Coordinator: Ashith Pinto
Meet the New Leadership
Stephen Menezes – President
A prominent figure in the Konkani entertainment industry, Menezes is an actor, comedian, playwright, poet, and director. He has won multiple awards and was the main coordinator of the Mangalore Konkans Family Fiesta in December 2024, which saw 2,000 attendees. Professionally, he is the Managing Director of Reach Me Advertising Company.
Rajesh Sequeira – Vice President
Sequeira played a crucial role in establishing Mangalore as an international airport and enabling direct Gulf flights. A multi-talented artist, he is a singer, musician, public speaker, actor, and master of ceremonies. He currently works as an Aircraft Engineer and is also a Light Sport Aircraft pilot.
Melroy Clement Pinto – Treasurer
With an MCom in Finance, a PGDHRM, and a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification, Pinto is known for his meticulous financial expertise. He is the Manager (GRC and Operations) at Curtin University, Dubai.
Engride Goldina D’Souza – Secretary
Inspired by her father, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, Goldina is actively involved in community service. She also possesses a strong musical background as a keyboard player.
Ashith Pinto – Media Coordinator
With a Master’s degree in Management, Pinto has successfully organized large-scale events across the UAE, India, and the GCC.
Advisory Board
The newly appointed advisory board consists of former presidents and senior leaders:
✅ James Mendonca
✅ Alwyn Pinto
✅ Sonali Fernandes
✅ Floyd Kiran Moras
✅ Agnel Fernandes
✅ Roshan D’Silva
James Mendonca, who led MKD for 17 years, expressed gratitude for the members’ support and recalled landmark events like Gulf Voice of Mangalore, Konkani Sports Meet, and Wilfy’s Sentimental Nite.
About Mangalore Konkans Dubai
Established in 1988, MKD’s mission is to preserve and promote Konkani language, culture, and community welfare. It was the first Mangalorean association in the UAE and has organized numerous cultural, social, and philanthropic initiatives.
Notable achievements include:
✔ Hosting the first Konkani Way of the Cross in the UAE
✔ Introducing Nativity Feast flower showering for children
✔ Founding the first Konkani Choir at St. Mary’s Church, Dubai
✔ Advocating for a Konkani-speaking priest, leading to permanent Konkani Masses in Dubai
Key Events and Achievements
MKD has hosted major events such as:
✅ Grand May Queen Ball
✅ Gulf Voice of Mangalore
✅ Family Fiesta
✅ Konkani Singing Competitions
✅ Leadership Training & Personality Development Programs
Philanthropic Initiatives
MKD has actively supported education, healthcare, and community welfare through:
✔ Education & Medical Trust Fund (in collaboration 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 strong advisory board, MKD aims to further strengthen the Mangalorean community in the UAE, ensuring the preservation of Konkani traditions and fostering social service initiatives.
