Doha: Gladson Almeida has been unanimously re-elected president of the Mangalore Cultural Association (MCA) Qatar for the 2026–28 term, while Jovita Pereira-D’Souza was elected vice-president at the association’s 16th Annual General Body Meeting.

MCA Qatar holds annual general body meeting

The annual general body meeting was held on August 28 at the ICC-Mumbai Hall in Doha. The meeting reviewed the association’s activities and achievements over the past year before members elected the new executive committee for the 2026–28 term.

The programme began with emcee Merlyn D’Souza inviting members to stand for the MCA anthem. She also highlighted the association’s activities over the past 18 years and acknowledged the contributions of its advisory members and executive committee.

MCA president Gladson Almeida welcomed the members and thanked them for their continued support and participation in the association’s activities.

Annual and financial reports approved

During the meeting, general secretary Carol D’Souza presented the annual and financial reports for 2025–26. The reports were accepted and approved by the members.

The gathering also witnessed the launch of the MCA’s updated website. The redesigned platform features a fresh layout and additional content and was developed by media coordinator Anna Pais.

Advisory members Felix Lobo and Wilfred Fernandes also addressed the gathering and encouraged the association and its members to continue their work.

Gladson Almeida re-elected president

The election of office-bearers was conducted by past president Arthur Pais.

Gladson Almeida was unanimously re-elected president of the Mangalore Cultural Association Qatar for the 2026–28 term. Jovita Pereira-D’Souza was elected vice-president.

The association also announced a newly formed Advisory Board during the AGM. MCA founder-advisor Felix Lobo was named chairman, while Harry Lobo was appointed vice-chairman.

Several former presidents and honorary members were also inducted as advisors. They include Harry Lobo, Arthur Pais, Veena Pais and Aloysius D’Souza.

Association marks 18 years of activities

The AGM also reflected on the MCA’s journey and activities over the past 18 years. The association has continued to bring members of the Mangalorean community together in Qatar through cultural and community initiatives.

The meeting provided an opportunity for members to review the previous year’s work and discuss the organisation’s direction for the new term.

The continued involvement of its executive committee, advisory members and wider membership was highlighted during the gathering.

AGM concludes on a cordial note

The meeting concluded in a warm and convivial atmosphere, with members coming together for breakfast and celebrating the spirit of unity and camaraderie associated with the Mangalore Cultural Association.

The re-election of Gladson Almeida and the appointment of Jovita Pereira-D’Souza mark the beginning of another two-year term for the association’s leadership.

The new executive committee and Advisory Board are expected to continue guiding the organisation’s cultural and community activities in Qatar during 2026–28.

Conclusion

Gladson Almeida’s unanimous re-election as president and Jovita Pereira-D’Souza’s election as vice-president mark the beginning of the MCA Qatar’s 2026–28 term, with a new Advisory Board also announced at the AGM.