GOAN FAMILY HISTORY PROJECT British Goan Histories Project : https://www.facebook.com/groups/136838369748358/ - Tracing your ancestry - http://goansinternationaluk.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/goan-family-histories.html Last Saturday 21 April, I was one of the attendees at a workshop led by Clifford Pereira FRGS. Cliff – as he is known – is well-known for his extensive work in research and projects for the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Geographical Society and the Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre. The workshop (free) was held at the latter venue – which was easy to get to thanks to instructions sent to each participant in advance. Indeed, some participants arrived on time despite the 2 hour travel to get there. But we were a lively bunch of Goans all eager to lap up the information being given to us. Cliff introduced the proceedings by informing that the Histories of British-Goans project was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and managed by the Goan Association UK. He then went on to give the background of Goans – as well as a concise and thorough explanation of our ancestry. It was surprising to know that there are people like us who have the same ancestry, language (Konkani), customs and food living in places among others, as far-flung as Thailand, Malaysia and closer to home on the east coast of India. Cliff shared a lot of information and then went on to explain how one could trace our family history – both from links and records held not only in Goa, but also in Britain – much of which he himself had personally delved into for his own family history. Strangely, at least 3 of us seemed to have links with each other so bringing home the oft thrown joke that Goans are all related to each other! I particularly was interested in a missing seaman from the Second World War and was stunned in the latter part of the day, to discover his whereabouts. That seaman was my uncle, which will bring some sort of closure to the family. Others too were able to trace some history of departed ancestors. Cliff was amazing in his delivery, his knowledge, his helpfulness and had prepared well for the day, even providing us with a helpful pack, containing fact sheets and related information. Also present was Dr Frenz, a lecturer in Global History, who gave help and support to whoever needed it that day, and Agnes Costa-Correa – both of whom are also part of the team of the British Goan Project. For me, the workshop enlightened, informed and enthused me greatly and if there should be a repeat, then I would heartily encourage early booking to ensure a place. Report by Anita Rebello 000000000000000000000000 rene barreto WORLD GOA DAY WORLD ALLIANCE OF GOAN ASSOCIATIONS. 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000
