Question: Following the exuberance of the New Year festivities just the week before, what attracts a record number of people to eagerly attend yet another dance the following Saturday 7 January 2012? Answer: The popularity of the GOA UK’s annual Goan Extravaganza and the opportunity to be part of the celebrations of its 45th Anniversary. It indeed was a most enjoyable event, thanks to the key organising and MC’ing skills of Norma Menezes Rahim, the Social Director.
Her team of Social Committee members – Rosy, Claire, Fiona and Rose – together with Bernie Gracias (Company Secretary), the Board of Directors and their families all provided her with the necessary support and coordination to ensure things went smoothly.
The guests – of varying ages and dance moves and elegant or smart in their formal attire – took to the floor throughout, thanks to the smooth and pulsating music provided by the popular “Maz & Co” and “Nitelife”. Being a family event, there were a number of children dressed in cute outfits and one particularly (little Miss Vaz) attracted many aahs with her Michael Jackson moves!
Every ticket bearer received a free plate of snacks and a slice of Anniversary cake and in keeping with the Sapphire theme, the Wandsworth Civic Suite was lavishly decorated which greatly enhanced the atmosphere. Taste buds were fuelled with tempting fare provided by “Shirley’s Kitchen”, whilst the energetic team behind the bar kept thirsts at bay. The GOA UK President, Flavio Gracias, and Norma thanked not only the guests for supporting this event, but also the various hard-working people who had contributed towards the success of the night. Then it was on to the draw of the Raffle and the gleeful claims for some really wonderful prizes.
Comments from guests who were attending their first Goan Extravaganza, were effusive in their praise of the venue and the efforts to ensure a good time was had by all. Well done, Norma! Looking forward to your next event, and next year’s Extravaganza.
Anita Rebello
