Roque Fernandes
LONDON: A noticeable surge in political participation among the Goan diaspora is creating a buzz across key UK hubs such as Wembley, Swindon, and Hounslow.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
With several candidates contesting upcoming council elections, the community is witnessing a new wave of engagement in local governance. These individuals, rooted in Goan heritage yet deeply connected to British civic life, are stepping forward with a shared aim: to represent their communities and bring meaningful change at the grassroots level.
In Brent Council’s Wembley Hill Ward, Angela Joyce de Souza — widely known as Joyce — is contesting on behalf of the Labour Party. A former practising lawyer in Goa and an active Labour Party officer in Brent West, Joyce is a familiar face in community circles, having hosted numerous cultural and social events over the years.
“I believe in community togetherness and putting the community first,” she says. “As a councillor, I will focus on improving pavements and roads, ensuring safer streets, and increasing police presence. As a Goan, I understand the challenges our community faces and will strive to be a strong voice for everyone in Wembley Hill.”
Her political inspiration comes from her husband, Elvis Fernandes, who has grassroots political experience in Goa.
Challenging her in the same ward is Conservative candidate Floyd Dias do Rosario, a security officer who previously contested in 2022 as one of the youngest Goan candidates in London. Floyd has been actively involved in community casework, helping residents navigate council services.
“My decision to enter politics stems from seeing communities — especially Goans — struggle without proper representation,” he explains. “I want to improve safety, ensure fair council taxation, and promote transparency.”
Floyd draws inspiration from leaders like Manohar Parrikar and Jack de Sequeira.
In Swindon Borough Council, Labour candidate Imtiyaz Shaikh from Queen’s Park brings significant experience, having served as Mayor of Swindon in 2024. During his tenure, he focused on civic representation, charity support, and community cohesion.
“My work has always centred on practical solutions that make a real difference,” he says, highlighting his efforts to improve housing conditions and support vulnerable residents. He also emphasises empowering youth while ensuring senior citizens live with dignity.
Alongside him is his wife, Councillor Adorabelle Amaral-Shaikh from Broadgreen Ward, who currently serves as Cabinet Member for Education, Special Needs and Skills. Since 2019, she has worked extensively to support vulnerable families and strengthen community cohesion.
“I take pride in being accessible and responsive to my constituents,” she says, adding that her Goan roots remain central to her identity.
Back in Wembley Central Ward, first-time Conservative candidate Ryan D’Souza is entering the political arena with a focus on safety and transparency.
“I’ve always worked behind the scenes to support the community. Now, I want to help make Wembley safer and ensure the Goan community has a stronger voice,” he says.
In Hounslow Council, several Goan candidates are also seeking to make their mark. Vilber De Costa, contesting Cranford Ward for the Conservatives, brings experience as a workplace union representative at Heathrow Airport.
“My aim is to deliver a cleaner, safer Cranford through better services and practical solutions,” he says. Vilber has played a role in major labour movements, contributing to improved working conditions, and is also active in promoting Goan talent globally.
From Hounslow Central, Conservative candidate Malcolm Silveira, a small business owner, is known for his involvement in charitable initiatives. His campaign centres on transparent governance, inspired in part by figures like Cristiano Ronaldo.
Allister Cajetan de Sa, contesting Hounslow West Ward, combines business experience with strong community involvement both in India and the UK.
“I aim to improve infrastructure, support businesses, and strengthen healthcare and education,” he says, crediting his father, Jose de Sa, as his guiding influence.
In Feltham’s Hanworth Park, businessman Joseph Allfrey Lobo is contesting on a Conservative ticket.
“Representation matters,” he emphasises. “I want to ensure our community’s voice shapes local decisions while addressing issues like housing and safety.”
Joseph has been actively engaged in youth and community initiatives, including associations linked to Goan parish networks.
Meanwhile, Mark Barreto, contesting Roxbourne Ward in Harrow Council, brings prior campaign experience from parliamentary elections.
“It’s an honour to represent my party, and I promise to serve my ward to the best of my ability,” he says, citing Rishi Sunak as his role model.
On the Labour side in Hounslow Central, Pamila Rodrigues has been working within the council system since 2015. A Senior Systems Operations Training and Support Officer, she has actively supported the Goan community across Hounslow, Southall, and Hayes.
She has also helped bring Goan cultural visibility to institutions, including celebrations of the Feast of St Francis Xavier in the UK Parliament and introducing Goan literature to local libraries.
“My goal is to be a strong Goan voice in local governance, promoting fairness, transparency, and empowerment,” she says.
The growing presence of Goan candidates across UK councils reflects a community that is increasingly confident in shaping its own narrative within British public life. From seasoned public servants to first-time contenders, each candidate brings a blend of cultural identity and civic commitment. As elections approach, this surge not only highlights political ambition but also underscores a deeper desire — to ensure that Goan voices are heard, represented, and influential in the communities they proudly call home.
