Mangaluru: The Catholic community-based organisation Rachana has announced the names of its 2025 awardees, recognising individuals who have excelled in entrepreneurship, professional services, agriculture, and other fields. Founded in 1998 by Catholic businessmen, agriculturists, and professionals, Rachana aims to encourage youth entrepreneurship, provide investment training, and offer technical support through its Rachana Entrepreneur Development Cell.
Celebrating 25 years of fostering talent
Over the last 25 years, Rachana has trained young entrepreneurs and highlighted successful professionals, agriculturists, NRI entrepreneurs, and women achievers, providing role models for aspiring youth.
For 2025, the awardees are:
- Entrepreneur: Mr Austin Roach, Bangalore
- Professional: Mr John Richard Lobo KAS, Mangalore
- Agriculturist: Dr Godwin Rodrigues PhD, Belvai, Mangalore
- NRI Entrepreneur: Mr Pratap Mendonca, Dubai
- Outstanding Woman: Mrs Shobha Mendonca, Dubai
Award ceremony details
The award ceremony will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 6 pm at Milagres Auditorium, Mangaluru. The event will be presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, with Mr K. J. George, Minister for Energy, Government of Karnataka, as the Chief Guest.
The Guests of Honour include:
- Mr Ivan Dsouza, MLC, Government of Karnataka
- Mr John Sunil, Group CEO, Burjeel Holdings, UAE
- Dr Cynthia Menezes, Dean and Director, Former Vice Chancellor (Acting), Bangalore University
Press meet highlights
Rachana officials at a press conference held on September 5, 2025, at the Press Club, Mangaluru, included:
- Mr John B Monteiro, President
- Mr Vijay V Lobo, Secretary
- Mr Nelson Monteiro, Treasurer
- Mr Naveen Lobo, Vice-president
- Ms Eulalia Dsouza, Awards Coordinator
The organisation emphasised that these awards aim to inspire the next generation of youth by showcasing the achievements of exemplary individuals in diverse fields.