Every new year invites reflection but it also demands renewed intent
As we present the second edition of KE Pulse and step into 2026, I am reminded of the core reason Kanara Entrepreneurs (KE) came into existence. KE was founded by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs, with a simple yet powerful purpose: to encourage, support, guide, and nurture entrepreneurship rooted in the Kanara region, while remaining open to the world.
Over the years, KE has grown into a truly global network What began as a shared regional identity has evolved into a dynamic platform for learning, collaboration, and mutual support across borders. Whether in Dubai, Bangalore, Goa, or beyond, our collective strength lies in the willingness of our members to share knowledge, experience, and best practices, enabling others to grow, adapt, and excel in their entrepreneurial journeys.
As we move further into 2026, our ambition remains clear: to build a community where entrepreneurs, senior leaders, and professionals uplift one another, contribute meaningfully, and strive collectively for excellence KE Pulse is one of the ways we bring this spirit to life, by celebrating achievements, spotlighting inspiring stories, and staying connected as one global network
I encourage you to engage deeply with this edition. Reach out to fellow members, mentor where you can, learn where you need to, and continue strengthening the bonds that make KE more than just an organisation. As we look ahead, let us remain intentional in how we grow, building businesses that endure, leaders who inspire, and a KE community that continues to leave a meaningful global footprint.
Wishing you a year filled with growth, clarity, and collaboration
Warm regards,
Ivan Fernandes Global Chairman Kanara Entrepreneurs
S p o t l i g h
S t o r y
KE Ends 2025 on a High!
We Celebrated Christmas with Community, Cheer, and Connection
KE closed 2025 on a joyful and unifying note, as chapters across Bangalore and Dubai concluded the season with warmth, energy, and a strong sense of community. From large-scale festive gatherings to family-led celebrations, the year-end events reflected what KE stands for at its core Belonging, collaboration, and shared joy
In Bangalore, KE hosted its flagship Christmas Xtravaganza 3 0, bringing together nearly 600 members, families, and guests at Anantya, Palace Grounds. The event was a vibrant showcase of KE’s scale and spirit, thoughtfully planned to engage every generation. From member-run stalls resembling a Christmas bazaar to carol performances by Musicians@KE and enthusiastic participation from children, the celebration blended entrepreneurship with festivity. Games, fancy dress competitions, housie, and GenNow-led activities kept the energy high throughout the
A few days later, KE Dubai echoed the same festive spirit with KE Jingle Bash 2025, hosted at Icon Delux Hotel Apartments in Al Barsha The evening brought members and families together for an intimate yet lively celebration filled with music, games, and laughter. Carol singing, live band performances, and a special visit from Santa created memorable moments for both adults and children. The event also offered a moment of reflection, as KE Dubai leadership shared highlights from the year and acknowledged the collective efforts that shaped 2025.
Across both cities, the message was clear: KE ended the year not just with events, but with experiences that strengthened relationships, celebrated contribution, and reinforced a shared identity. As members welcomed Christmas and looked ahead to 2026, the festive season stood as a reminder that KE’s greatest strength lies in its people and the community they continue to build together
KE DUBAI
Pratap Mendonca receives Rachana NRI Entrepreneur Award
Shobha Mendonca receives Rachana Outstanding Woman Award
Alwyn Pinto receives the Sadaka Ratna Puraskara
Michael D’Souza honoured with ET Now Award for Transformative Philanthropy
KE BANGALORE
Austin Roach honoured with Rachana Entrepreneur Award 2023-2025!
Clevio Monteiro, CEO, SunRaj Travels, receives the Hridayanand SwarnShri Samman for Exemplary Leadership in Business at the MSME Think Tank Event,heldatNSEAuditorium!
Paul George, Founder, Nextgen Solutions, was awarded the prestigious Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Inspiration Award 2025 at New Delhi by Topnotch Foundation
Vincent Anthony D'Souza, MadVR Solutions, AI awarded in the “Most Innovative” category for Excellence in the Best AI Solution Showcase by the ConfederationsofIndianIndustry(CII)
KE BANGALORE
Rufus Monteiro of Execution Power House was awarded ‘Excellence in Compact Design @NAVIG8, 2025’ for TechnicallySoundTeam
Joe Lobo’s autobiography in Konkani, EK JIVIT: AUKAS APARIMIT, was published by the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, released on Sunday, 19thOctober2025
KE BANGALORE
Shelma Furtal, elected as Treasurer 2025-2027 at Travel AgentsFederationofIndia-KarnatakaChapter
Nivedith Alva was appointed AICC Secretary forTamilNadu.
VictorEdwardDsouza
KE BANGALORE
Peter Anil Rego, Manil Rego, Sunil Rego, Naveen Rodrigues, Aaron Rego & Anston Rego and team, Brilliant Printers is awarded a triple win at the PrintWeek Awards 2025!
Book Printer of the Year (Education)!
Book Education Company of the Year!
Green Company of the Year (Large)!
Kanara Catholic Association (KCA), Bangalore, elected its new Managing Committee for 2025-26 at its AGM on 21st September 2025. Congratulations to our KE Members who are on the Committee!
Roshan Menezes (Vice President)
Ajay Fernandes (Treasurer)
Luvena Rangel (Media & Communication and Culture & Choir)
Dianney Lobo (Database & Membership Management)
Karen Pais Prabhu (Managing Committee)
Reena Serrao (Managing Committee)
Susan Gojer (Managing Committee)
KE Dubai Explores
NRI Taxation at Fourth Breakfast Meet
KE Dubai hosted its fourth Morning Breakfast Meet & Greet of the year on August 16, 2025, bringing members together for a Masterclass on NRI Taxation led by CA Arun Vaz, with support from Nilesh Menezes and Abhay Champanerkar.
Held at Winny’s Restaurant in Karama, the gathering welcomed over 35 members The session offered timely clarity on key considerations affecting Non-Resident Indians, helping entrepreneurs better understand compliance expectations and cross-border tax planning in an evolving regulatory environment
Read the full article here
KE Dubai hosted its first-ever Founders Fiesta on September 20, 2025, featuring an inspiring keynote by Michael D’Souza, who shared insights drawn from over five decades of entrepreneurial experience.
Held in Barsha Heights, the event brought members together for an evening centred on resilience, long-term thinking, and purpose-led entrepreneurship. Michael reflected on navigating major setbacks, building sustainable businesses, and the importance of legacy through philanthropy, offering perspective that resonated across generations of founders
Read the full article here
Michael D’Souza Headlined KE Dubai’s Founders Fiesta
KE Dubai Hosted Wellness-Centric Networking Evening
KE Dubai hosted a members’ networking event on November 1, 2025, bringing the community together for an evening focused on health, balance, and sustainable performance in entrepreneurship
Held at TIME Oak Hotel & Suites in Tecom, Dubai, the event featured a wellness-focused session led by Pamela Durant, Founder and Managing Director of Diapoint, who shared practical insights on making health a core business priority. The session emphasised simple lifestyle choices that support long-term energy, clarity, and resilience for entrepreneurs and professionals
The evening also marked the induction of eight new members into KE Dubai, reflecting the chapter’s continued growth.
Read the full article here
KE Bangalore Hosted VisionX to Inspire Young Entrepreneurs
KE
KE Bangalore held a first-of-its-kind initiative encouraging young Christian entrepreneurs to explore entrepreneurship with purpose and confidence. Held at the Catholic Club and supported by MishMash Finserve LLP, the halfday event brought together over 90 participants for learning and collaboration.
The programme featured insights from KE leaders Claudius Pereira and Pramod D’Souza, emphasising adaptability, discipline, and community A key highlight was the Idea to Action Workshop, where participants developed and pitched business ideas with guidance from KE mentors Financial planning insights and the launch of KE Gen Now further reinforced KE’s commitment to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Bangalore held First KE Masterclass on Government Benefits for MSMEs
KE Bangalore launched its first KE Masterclass on September 27, 2025, focused on Government Benefits for MSMEs and designed to help non-tech MSMEs, startups, and aspiring entrepreneurs better access available incentives The session highlighted the importance of learning and stewardship in building sustainable businesses.
Sunil Pinto of Remedia Facilities Services Pvt Ltd outlined key government schemes including MSME registration, StartUp India, GeM registration, and sector-specific incentives, supported by live portal demonstrations. R Gopinath Rao, former Deputy Director at the MSME Development & Facilitation Office, Government of India, shared insights on funding options, digitisation, and cluster development, while Edwin D’Souza from SBI’s Financial Literacy Center addressed credit scores and financial protections The session concluded with a panel discussion on fundraising and IPOs, reinforcing KE’s commitment to practical, value-driven learning.
Founders’ Fiesta: Insights from Ivor Misquith
The Founders’ Fiesta on August 9 at the Catholic Club featured an engaging and interactive session with Ivor Misquith, Founder of Indorient Financial Services. Through audience participation and personal stories, he shared key lessons from his journey, including early challenges, career growth, and leadership experience at Morgan Stanley
He highlighted the importance of discipline, adaptability, strong networks, and domainfocused strategies in building a successful venture. The session concluded with a simple introduction to valuation concepts and left participants with practical insights and inspiration for their entrepreneurial journeys.
Founders’ Fiesta: Following Your Passion | Shelma Furtal
KE members gathered on September 6 at The Bowring Club for a Founders’ Fiesta session featuring Shelma Furtal, Partner at Shreya Travels, who shared how passion can translate into a sustainable business Growing up in Bangalore, Shelma chose to follow her interest in travel after studying Psychology, completing her IATA course and building her career as the industry evolved from manual systems to digital operations.
Over the years, she developed strong expertise across ticketing, visas, and corporate travel, guided by resilience and a willingness to learn. In 2023, she became co-owner of Shreya Travels, navigating early challenges with a hands-on, client-first approach Her journey reinforced a clear message for members: when backed by perseverance and service, passion can become a lasting profession
Founders’ Fiesta: The Right Way Up | Clarence Pereira
The 25th edition of Founders’ Fiesta, held on October 11 at Ashraya International Hotel, featured Clarence Pereira, Director of Deccan Group of Companies, and offered a reminder that patience, honesty, and discipline still drive lasting success. His journey, spanning multiple industries from leather to real estate, reflected steady growth built on thoughtful decisions rather than speed.
Clarence highlighted the importance of small but consistent habits such as clear documentation, timely payments, and strong record-keeping, which proved critical through legal and operational challenges His story underscored how transparency and discipline support sustainable growth over time. The session also marked a generational moment with participation from his son, symbolising continuity and legacy, and concluded with a memento presentation celebrating the milestone 25th Founders’ Fiesta
Founders’ Fiesta: Breaking the Financial BarrierSharath Mascarenhas
The 26th edition of Founders’ Fiesta, held on November 8 at Ashraya International Hotel, featured Sharath Mascarenhas, CEO of MishMash Finserve, who shared a grounded and reflective perspective on money, discipline, and mindful financial management. His session reframed finance not as a source of stress, but as a tool shaped by habits, clarity, and continuous learning.
Sharath spoke candidly about his personal journey, from early setbacks and financial missteps to building a disciplined approach rooted in small daily systems such as expense tracking, recordkeeping, and regular reviews. He emphasised that financial progress is rarely driven by windfalls, but by consistency, self-awareness, and the willingness to learn from mistakes.
A key theme was the human side of money. Sharath highlighted how financial decisions are deeply influenced by family dynamics, emotions, and values, and that true success lies in balance, resilience, and quality of life, not just numbers.
KE Bangalore Members Focus on Health and Well-Being at Bangalore Meet
KE hosted a wellness-focused Members’ Meet at The Grand Magrath, Bangalore, on August 22, bringing attention to the importance of health in entrepreneurial leadership. The evening included the induction of nine new members and recognition of members for referrals, strengthening the sense of community.
The highlight was a preventive healthcare panel moderated by Dr Aldon Fernandes, featuring Dr Sunil Furtado, Dr Saikat Kanjilal, and Dr John Tharakan. The discussion offered practical advice on managing stress, recognising early health warning signs, staying active, and prioritising mental well-being. Members also heard brief pitches from healthfocused entrepreneurs and the launch of KE Pulse, a bulletin connecting members across Bangalore, Dubai, and Goa
KE Members’ Meet: Getting Real Over Real Estate
KE hosted its October Members’ Meet at the Radisson Blu, bringing together members for an evening of collaboration and insight. The session saw the induction of seven new members and a welcome address by KE President Pramod D’Souza, who highlighted the network’s growing problem-solving culture
A key highlight was the Skill through Drill segment led by Sunil Attavar, where members worked together on real business challenges. The evening concluded with a real estate panel moderated by Rayan Aranha, featuring Austin Roach, Errol Fernandes, and Dheeraj S, who shared perspectives on market trends, investment, and sustainability The meet wrapped up with announcements, networking, and dinner, marking KE’s final Members’ Meet of 2025 ahead of the Christmas celebrations
Propelling Forward: Lessons from KE GenNow Alumni
KE Bangalore hosted the KE GenNow Meet on July 11, 2025, at the Catholic Club, Bangalore, bringing together GenNow members, alumni, and KE leadership for an evening of learning and connection. The session opened with a welcome and set the tone for reflection on growth within the KE ecosystem.
The highlight was a panel discussion moderated by Carol Pereira, featuring KE GenNow alumni Luvena Rangel, Rufus Monteiro, Laveena D’Souza, and Pramod D’Souza, who shared insights on leveraging the GenNow platform, building meaningful connections, and collaborating for growth. The evening also included interactive activities that encouraged engagement, followed by updates on upcoming initiatives and networking over dinner, reinforcing the importance of community and shared progress.
KE Women’s Maiden Trip to Ooty
From September 12th to 14th, 22 women entrepreneurs came together for the first-ever KE Women’s Trip to Ooty, creating an experience filled with connection, adventure, and shared joy From the start, the journey turned strangers into friends through laughter, music, and bonding moments, with scenic drives and an off-road trail to Destiny Farm Resort setting an adventurous tone.
The days featured sunrise views over Avalanche Lake, guided nature walks, and hands-on activities that encouraged confidence and curiosity, from trekking and fishing to horse riding and farm experiences. Evenings around bonfires, karaoke, and shared meals deepened connections and fostered inclusivity More than a getaway, the trip offered lasting takeaways on courage, simplicity, and togetherness, setting a strong foundation for many more KE Women’s journeys ahead.
KE Women’s Meet: An Evening of AI, Insight, and Inspiration
KE hosted its Women’s Meet on November 25, 2025, at OUZO by Fire, Indiranagar, bringing together 39 women entrepreneurs for an evening of learning, connection, and collaboration. The session opened with networking and ice-breakers, setting an energetic and welcoming tone
The highlight was a session on Scaling Up Business Using AI by Mark Lionel John, COO of Nu Pie Analytics, who demystified AI for business, introduced practical tools, and shared a simple problem-solving framework. The evening also featured an interactive business case discussion, KE updates, and networking over dinner, closing with reflections from KE leadership and a strong sense of shared inspiration and momentum.
Goa - An Entrepreneurs' Haven for Working Spaces
When people think of Goa, the first images that often come to mind are beaches, tourism and a relaxed lifestyle But today, Goa is quietly emerging as something much more powerful - a growing hub for entrepreneurs, startups and modern working spaces
Ninio J. Correia Admin, KE Goa
KE Goa started in 2025 with a clear and meaningful vision Rooted in the Christian and Roman Catholic community, KE has always focused on helping people with business ideas - guiding them on how to
start, grow, collaborate, invest and move forward with confidence KE Goa began in a big way and has already conducted impactful programs that added real value to its members, especially those who were seeking direction, mentorship and opportunities
Goa is uniquely positioned to support entrepreneurship. It has a strong Catholic population with deep community bonds, trust-based relationships and a culture of helping one another - all essential foundations for successful business ecosystems. Beyond this, Goa offers something very rare in India: a balanced lifestyle combined with serious business potential
One of the strongest and most unique aspects of Goa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is the versatility of its working spaces In Goa, work is no longer confined to traditional offices Cafés across the state have naturally evolved into informal hot desks for entrepreneurs - places where a laptop, a cup of coffee and a good idea come together These cafés double up as meeting venues, discussion spaces and creative hubs, allowing professionals to work, ideate and collaborate in a relaxed yet productive environment. Alongside this, co-working spaces and flexible work hubs are steadily growing, offering entrepreneurs the freedom to choose where and how they work, without being tied to one fixed location.
In recent years, Goa has also become a preferred destination for work-from-home professionals, remote workers, and digital nomads. With reliable internet connectivity, peaceful surroundings and a strong sense of community, many professionals now choose Goa as their base while working for companies across India and the world. This shift has further strengthened the demand for flexible workspaces - from cafés and shared offices to creative corners that encourage fresh thinking.
Importantly, Goa is no longer only about tourism While tourism remains strong, many startups are now being born in Goa - in areas such as technology services, wellness, food and beverage brands, creative industries, education, consultancy and community-driven enterprises Entrepreneurs are choosing Goa because it allows them to think clearly, work creatively and build sustainably.
KE Goa plays a vital role in this journey. By bringing together business owners, aspirants, professionals and investors under one platform, KE Goa encourages collaboration, ideasharing and growth It reminds us that business is not just about profit, but also about purpose, ethics and community upliftment.
Goa has the talent, the space, the lifestyle and the spirit needed for entrepreneurship to thrive With the right guidance, networks like KE and a supportive community, Goa truly stands out as an entrepreneurs’ haven for working spaces - a place where ideas grow, businesses take shape, and people move forward together.
As KE Goa continues its journey, the message is clear: Goa is open for ideas, open for collaboration and open for business - in a way that is meaningful, inclusive, sustainable and future-ready.
K n o w l e d g e c e n t r e
Why Entrepreneurship Still Eludes Our Community?
By Pramod D’Souza President, KE Bangalore
1. A Job-Oriented Mindset
While entrepreneurship is a proven engine of economic growth, innovation, and community empowerment, its adoption within the Christian community remains limited. This is despite strong education, professional success, and global exposure. What are the key factors holding us back? A few points came out of a recent brainstorming session we had at a leadership forum of KE Bangalore.
From a young age, the emphasis on stable employment subtly shapes career choices, with success largely equated to secure jobs in reputed firms or overseas. Entrepreneurship, perceived as uncertain and risky, is therefore approached with hesitation, reinforcing a preference for safety over exploration.
2. Fear of Failure and Risk Aversion
Failure is rarely viewed as part of the learning journey; instead, it is seen as something to be avoided This mindset discourages experimentation and innovation, and weakens the willingness to take risks, leading many to hold back rather than take the first step.
3. Cultural Conditioning: Followers, Not Leaders
Culturally, we are often taught to be obedient, compliant, and risk-averse. While these traits help in structured environments like jobs, they do not nurture leadership or entrepreneurial thinking We are trained to “follow systems” rather than create them, leading to low confidence in taking initiative or leading ventures
4. Exposure to Entrepreneurship
Children in our community rarely see entrepreneurship up close They do not observe business operations, decision-making, or problem-solving in real-world settings. Without early exposure, entrepreneurship remains abstract and intimidating Schools, colleges, and even community platforms rarely integrate practical business learning.
5. Limited Family and Community Support
Families play a decisive role in shaping career choices. Unfortunately, many families discourage business ideas, preferring predictable income and social security Community expectations, social obligations, and the pressure to conform further dilute entrepreneurial ambition, especially among youth.
6. Lack of Mentorship and Guidance
Many aspiring entrepreneurs simply do not know where to start. There is a lack of accessible mentors, incubation support, and hand-holding mechanisms Without guidance on funding, compliance, ideation, and execution, potential entrepreneurs lose confidence or abandon ideas prematurely
7. Low Awareness of Government Schemes and Funding Options
Several government schemes, grants, and incentives exist to support startups and small businesses. However, awareness about these opportunities remains low. This knowledge gap creates the false perception that entrepreneurship is only for the privileged or well-funded
8. Education System Favors Employment
Our education system is largely designed to produce employees, not entrepreneurs Creativity, critical thinking, decision-making, and financial literacy are rarely emphasised. As a result, students graduate with degrees but without the mindset or skills to build ventures
The Way Forward
A gradual shift in perception can be achieved through early exposure to entrepreneurship, strong mentorship, family support, structured incubation, clear funding guidance, and the consistent showcasing of success stories. At KE, our focus remains on nurturing entrepreneurial talent, while actively working to increase awareness around entrepreneurship, business mindset, practical exposure, and the support ecosystem available to aspiring entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurship must be recognised as a credible and respected path to growth both for individuals and for the community as a whole. With intentional nurturing, our community has the potential not only to participate in entrepreneurship, but to lead, innovate, and inspire future generations.
