Date: 9 August 2026
Venue: Royal Legend, Bommanahalli, Bengaluru

Sezari Bangalore held its Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) and youth Gathering on Sunday, 9 August 2026, bringing together members, youth and guests from the Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations (FKCA). The gathering was a blend of fun, fellowship, formal proceedings and the beginning of a new leadership term for 2026–2028.

The programme began at 3:30 p.m. with a special gathering for the youth. Enthusiastic youth of Sezari participated in the programme, which began with a warm welcome, prayer and an action song. The youth then introduced themselves and took part in a variety of games and activities, including brain teasers, riddles, word games, physical challenges and team activities. The programme created a lively atmosphere and gave the youth an opportunity to get to know one another and interact as a group.

The youth themselves took an active role in organising and coordinating the programme. Their enthusiasm, teamwork and willingness to participate were appreciated as an encouraging sign for the future of Sezari. After the activities, everyone enjoyed high tea and freshly prepared masala dosas before the AGM proceedings began.

Annual General Body Meeting
The formal AGM commenced at 6:00 p.m. with a prayer led by Mr. Johnviston Dias, seeking God's blessings for Sezari and its members.

The President Anil Sequeira welcomed the gathering and the visiting FKCA dignitaries, including Mr. Anthony Gonsalves, Chairman, FKCA; Mrs. Zaveena Lobo, General Secretary, FKCA; and Dr. Eliza Pereira, Founder – Florina’s Angels, who served as the Returning Officer, along with all office bearers, committee members and Sezari members.

The Secretary, Sunitha Albuquerque presented the AGM report for 2025–2026, which was approved by Dr. Edward D Souza and seconded by Mr. Robert D Souza. The Annual Report highlighting the activities and events conducted during the year was then presented. The highlights of the Sezari activities:

The year 2025-26 was marked by a good mix of faith-based activities, cultural celebrations, community fellowship, youth engagement and charity initiatives. Some of the key activities conducted during the year included:
* Monthi Fest Celebration on September 8: 300 Konkani Catholics came together to celebrate the Nativity of Mother Mary, keeping alive the rich traditions and spirit of the Konkani community.
* Mission Sunday Stall on November 9: Sezari members participated in the Mission Sunday initiative, contributing their time and effort towards the cause of the Church and community and contributed a big sum towards this.
* One-Day Family Picnic on December 14: Members enjoyed a day of fellowship and relaxation at Fantasy Falls, Kanakapura, bringing families together in an informal and joyful setting.
* Kuswar Exchange on January 4: The traditional Kuswar exchange brought back the warmth of Mangalorean Christmas traditions and gave members an opportunity to share the festive spirit with one another.
* Lenten Retreat on March 1: Members participated in a Lenten retreat, taking time for prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal during the season of Lent.
* Visit to Balayesu Orphanage on March 8: As part of its community outreach and service activities, Sezari members visited Balayesu Orphanage and extended support to the children. A grinder worth 20000/- was donated along with grocery and stationery items for children. Conducted games and spent time sharing gifts, snacks and it was wonderful being with them.
* Good Friday Way of the Cross – April 3: Members participated in Way of the Cross in Konkani on Good Friday, coming together in prayer and reflection.
* Education Support: Sezari also extended assistance towards the education of two deserving children, reflecting its commitment to supporting young people and making a meaningful difference in the community.
* Youth Gathering at Florina’s Angels elderly home on July 19: The youth organised a meaningful gathering at Florina’s Angels Day Care Centre for Elderly, interacting with senior citizens and spending time with them. The initiative provided the youth with an opportunity to experience service, compassion and fellowship across generations.

These activities reflected Sezari's commitment to faith, culture, fellowship and service, while also creating opportunities for members of different age groups to participate and contribute to the community.

Treasurer Mr. Sudeep Lobo presented the financial report for 2025–2026, which was approved by Mr. Ronald Sequeira and seconded by Mr. Noel Sequeira.

The existing auditor Mrs. Lata Bhagwat of LNB Associates was reappointed for the next year as the Auditor.

Reflections and Discussions
The gathering discussed several matters relating to Sezari's activities and future. Members were encouraged to participate wholeheartedly in the upcoming Monthi Fest celebrations on 8 September 2026. The youth were particularly encouraged to join the choir and take an active part in the celebrations.

The growth and activities of Sezari were appreciated, with special recognition given to the efforts of the outgoing leadership under President Mr. Anil Sequeira. His systematic approach, regular follow-up and reminders were acknowledged as important factors in ensuring that activities planned during the year were completed on time.

The importance of preserving Konkani language, culture and traditions was also discussed. Members who may not be familiar with Konkani were encouraged to become part of Sezari and learn more about the language and heritage.

The participation of the youth was another important point of discussion. Mr. Sherwin spoke about the challenges of bringing young people together, as participation can vary from programme to programme. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported the youth initiatives. His efforts in bringing together a good number of young people were appreciated, along with the active involvement of Mr. Johnviston Dias and Ms. Roshal. As Shervin was celebrating his birthday that day it was celebrated by cake cutting along with his parents.

The attendance at the monthly Konkani Mass was also discussed. Members were encouraged not only to attend the Konkani Mass themselves but also to personally motivate family members and friends to participate. The gathering emphasised that the preservation of Konkani identity and community spirit depends on active participation.

Appreciation for the Outgoing Leadership
Outgoing President Mr. Anil shared his experience of serving as President.

He recalled that when he first took up the responsibility, he was initially unsure about the role and felt that he had much to learn. The first few months were challenging, but with experience and, most importantly, the cooperation and support of the members, he gradually gained confidence. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the office bearers, committee members and Sezari families who supported him throughout his term.

The members appreciated his dedication and systematic manner of working and thanked him for his contribution to Sezari.

Election of the New Committee
The outgoing committee was formally dissolved before the election of the new committee.
The election for the 2026–2028 term was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Eliza Pereira, the Returning Officer.
Dr. Eliza Pereira brings extensive experience in social work, having served for 35 years as Head of the Social Work Department at St. Johns Medical College Hospital. After her retirement, she established the Florina’s Angels - A Day Care Centre for the Elderly in memory of her mother to serve specially who have the challenge of Dementia, where she continues to work with senior citizens, providing counselling and support.

The following office bearers were elected for the 2026–2028 term:
President: Mrs. Leena Lobo
Vice President: Mr. Robert D'Souza
Secretary: Mrs. Sunitha Albuquerque
Joint Secretary: Mr. Alan D'Souza
Treasurer: Mr. Sudeep Lobo
Executive Committee: 20 members

New President Calls for Collective Effort
Addressing the gathering after the election, newly elected President Mrs. Leena Lobo expressed her gratitude for the confidence placed in her and acknowledged the responsibility of leading Sezari for the next two years. She requested the cooperation and active participation of every member and emphasised that the future of Sezari depends on everyone working together. She said:

“Together, we will take Sezari to Higher Level – Lets work as a Team.”
The new leadership aims to build on the existing strengths of Sezari while encouraging greater participation from members of all generations. Particular emphasis will be placed on membership, family participation, youth engagement, cultural activities, community service, financial sustainability and developing the next generation of Sezari leaders.

A New Generation Steps Forward
The enthusiasm shown by the youth during the gathering was one of the highlights of the day. The new committee intends to give young members more opportunities not just to participate in programmes but also to organise, volunteer and take responsibility. The objective is to gradually develop young leaders who can take Sezari forward in the years to come.

The gathering also reflected the importance of bringing together children, youth, families and senior members so that the traditions and spirit of Sezari can continue across generations.

Message from FKCA
Mr. Anthony Gonsalves, Chairman of FKCA, expressed his happiness at seeing the increased participation at Sezari compared with his visit the previous year. He appreciated the support extended by Sezari to FKCA and thanked the association for its continued cooperation.

Mrs. Zaveena Lobo, General Secretary of FKCA, said it was her first time attending the Sezari AGM and expressed her happiness at seeing the strong presence of youth. She appreciated the support given by Sezari for Kreedotsava and requested the same cooperation in the coming year.

Dr. Eliza Pereira congratulated the newly elected committee and offered the members of Sezari and family members counselling support free of cost and guidance whenever required.

Fellowship Brings the Day to a Close
Mr. Victor Rodrigues, Past President of Sezari, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to the FKCA dignitaries, outgoing and incoming office bearers, committee members, youth and all those who contributed to making the programme successful.

Following the formal proceedings, the gathering continued in a relaxed and festive spirit with fun games and a lively Baila dance. Members then shared a fellowship dinner, providing an opportunity to meet, interact and celebrate the beginning of a new term together.

The AGM and get-together were more than an annual formal meeting. It was a celebration of faith, friendship, Konkani heritage, youth and community spirit, while also marking a new chapter for Sezari.

With a new leadership team, an enthusiastic youth group and the continued support of its members, Sezari looks forward to the next two years with renewed energy and a strong commitment to building a more vibrant, united and sustainable community.

Together, Sezari moves forward, reconnecting families, reviving the spirit and renewing the community for the next generation.

Report by - Sezari Media Team