Navelim bid warm farewell to founder member :::by Gasper Crasto, Kuwait::: Kuwait: Thomas Martinho Fernandes, founder member of Navelim Youth Centre (NYC) was felicitated at a warm farewell party organized by the club at Village Inn Hotel on Monday, 13th June 2009. The evening was set in motion by live music by young talented musicians of Navelim, Lentini and Platini Luis. Thomas was honored with a memento for being the founder member of the club and in recognition for his immense contribution towards the club and community. Speaking on the occasion, NYC Vice-President Luis DSilva said, Thomas was an architect and one of the pillars of the club who always stood for unity among its members. Thomas, who first came to Kuwait in 1970, was employed by Morad Yousuf Behbehani Group for whom he worked for a year in Bahrain as well. Later he worked with Al Nisf, Boodai Group and Atlas Copco. Thomas was one of the foremost persons instrumental in establishing Navelim Youth Centre in Kuwait. He was highly active in social, cultural, sports and charitable works of the club since its inception in 1987. He has served NYC for several years in different capacities. Keeping the youth and senior members of the club united has been one his forte. His creative and dynamic ideas have gained applauds from many members of the club and community. The members in their speeches recalled Thomas humbleness, immense talent and his selfless contribution in helping NYC organize events of excellence in Kuwait and back home in Goa. Senior NYC member Elvino Rodrigues praised Thomas for his gallant efforts in spreading friendship within the community while popular member Junnifer Rod paid rich tributes for his role in serving Konkani dramas and contributing towards Indian Football in Kuwait. Incidentally, it should be noted that Thomas was one of the members of United Goans who were involved in initiating football activities in Kuwait way back in 1979. Thomas was also a strong supporter of Kuwait Konkani Kendr
"I am leaving with fond memories of Kuwait and the friends that I have made over the years," said an emotional Thomas in his farewell speech. Thomas leaves Kuwait for good to be with his wife Natalia and two children Kevin and Kimberley.
