Imagine stepping into a room filled with laughter, music, and the warmth of a tightly-knit community coming together. That's exactly what unfolded at the Grand Excelsior Hotel Ballroom in Dubai as USWAS-Shirva rolled out the red carpet for their much-awaited Shirva Festh 2024. Led by the spirited Joel Tauro and his dedicated team, the event was a melting pot of over 180 parishioners, friends, and well-wishers, all eager to soak in the joyous atmosphere.

The evening began on a reflective note with a touching hymn paying homage to their Patron Saud Mai, followed by a moment of silence to honor the memories of beloved community members Late Ivan D’Souza (Founder Committee Member of USWAS) and Late Hilary Mathias (Senior USWAS Member). The prayer was led by Manoj Menezes.

As traditional offerings of water and jaggery were extended to guests by Senior member Paul Menezes, there was a palpable sense of unity and solidarity in the air.

Joel Tauro, the President of USWAS, set the stage for the night, extending a warm welcome to everyone present and introducing the dedicated committee members for the year ahead. Lavina Menezes, the Vice President, shared insights into the organization's charitable efforts, highlighting their unwavering commitment to serving those in need.

The crowd was treated to a heartwarming video message from the Shirva Parish Priest V. Rev. Fr. Dr. Leslie D’souza, reminding everyone of their roots and the importance of staying connected to their homeland. Sponsors and supporters were recognized for their invaluable contributions, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defines USWAS-Shirva by Joel Tauro supported by Roshan Menezes & Vilma Saldanha.

But the real magic happened on stage, where a lineup of talented performers took center stage. From soulful melodies to toe-tapping Bollywood dances by Nishan and his team, the entertainment segment had something for everyone. A song was beautifully presented by talented musician/singer Loyson Corda which was composed by himself. Melodious songs were rendered by singers Carol Danthi, Deepak Machado, Ashelle Mascarenhas, Wilson Saldanha, Morwin Saldanha, Lerissa D’souza, Vian Barboza, Preema Rodrigues and Alister Lasrado. Live music was played by Deepak Machado. Laughter filled the air as comedy skits brought smiles to faces by ‘Boskyambegar’ team - Denis Mathias, Diana, Canute, Sharan, Vilma, Nelson, Lavina Tauro and Manu.

Nostalgic treats like Chocobar Ice Cream and Mithai stalls added a touch of home to the festivities with festh-style decors. As the night came to a close, Secretary Oscar Rego expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who had made the event possible, from volunteers to sponsors and performers. The event was compered Venissa D’Souza with great enthusiasm & energy.
With a sumptuous buffet dinner to savor and DJ Ashley spinning tunes to dance the night away, it was a celebration to remember.

USWAS-Shirva is a group of dedicated members belonging to the parish of Our Lady of Health Church – Shirva. For over two decades, they've been the backbone of the Shirva community in the UAE, lending a helping hand wherever it's needed. USWAS is a non-profit group, abides and drives its spirit with the motto of ‘Lend a hand not for self, but for each other’. Driven by its motto USWAS extends unconditional service to promote well-being of Shirvaites living in the UAE, Shirva Parish and society, uplift Konkani language and culture, education of financially background children, supporting alma matter, medical aid, house construction, marriages of economically backward families and many other purposes. Main objective of USWAS was to bring all the Shirva Parishioners of U.A.E together under one roof. Currently USWAS has more than 210 active members and families.