Goan Convention offers connection to culture

Flora Almeida Marlow, who hails from Goa, a state in India, travelled all the way from Montreal to Mississauga in search of all things Goan.
Almeida Marlow, who was was in town with her family hoped, to take in various activities at the 2008 International Goan Convention today.
The event runs until Sunday at venues in and around Mississauga, including the University of Toronto - Mississauga and the Living Arts Centre. The convention includes networking opportunities, theatre performances, cultural and musical evening, workshops and other activities.
The Montreal mother said even though her two daughters, Shannon, 13, and Fiona, 14, don't speak Konkani, the native language, she makes sure they remain connected to the culture.
The Almeida Marlow family loves the cuisine and other art and dance forms of Goa. 
“My daughters who have been raised in Montreal, Quebec don't have too many opportunities to learn about the rich history and heritage of Goa,” Almeida Marlow said. “I think it is important for the younger generation to learn and this is a great way to do so.”
Tonight's musical evening at the University of Toronto - Mississauga campus included performances of a traditional dance - Mando Mogi — and a 'Goa Idol' competition for aspiring singers.
Francis Rodrigues, president of Goanetters Association of Toronto (GNAT), said a three-week international convention hosted in Toronto 20 years ago was an unqualified success, so organizers of this year's event decided to replicate some of events again.
“Many second and third generation Goans living in Canada have lost in touch with their culture,” Rodrigues said. “This is an opportunity for them to get in touch, hear the native language and relive their culture again.”
GNAT came into existence a year ago as a result of an online mailing group, GoaNet, comprising of more than 12,000 Goans worldwide.
rpanjwani@mississauga.net