Mangaluru: RACHANA – Catholic Chamber of Commerce and Industry – held its All Members Meet and the soft launch of RACHANA Trade Expo 2027 at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru, on Saturday evening. The event brought together a large gathering of business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals to strengthen business networking and promote community entrepreneurship.
In his welcome address, RACHANA President Roy Castelino emphasised the importance of combining the experience of senior members with the energy and innovative ideas of young entrepreneurs. He called for greater youth participation and leadership, urging members to build an organisation where businesses receive encouragement, opportunities are shared and every entrepreneur finds a platform to grow. He highlighted connection, collaboration and commitment as the key pillars for strengthening RACHANA.
The highlight of the evening was the soft launch of RACHANA Trade Expo 2027, proposed to be held on February 26, 27 and 28, 2027. Leslie Rego, Convenor of the Trade Expo, outlined the vision of creating a major platform for businesses to showcase their products and services, explore new markets, connect with customers and establish partnerships. He stressed that the Expo should be a celebration of enterprise, innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit of coastal Karnataka, calling upon all members to take collective ownership of the initiative.
The Trade Expo logo was unveiled by Michael D’Souza, who appreciated the initiative and the large participation of businesspeople. He particularly welcomed the introduction of members and guests, noting that understanding one another’s businesses could create valuable opportunities for mutual growth. While expressing concern over the closure of several traditional businesses, he welcomed the emergence of new ventures and extended his full support to the Expo.
Walter Nandalike welcomed the initiative, observing that this was the first time in RACHANA’s history that a trade fair was being organised. He encouraged entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in education and healthcare, emphasising the growing need for quality education and the potential of private universities to benefit the community.
Dion Monteiro called upon young people to consider entrepreneurship in India rather than looking exclusively at employment opportunities abroad. He encouraged students who pursue education overseas to return and establish businesses in their home country, contributing to its economic growth.
The programme also featured the release of the Trade Expo brochure, the symbolic distribution of car stickers and an update by the President on the Expo’s status and the work ahead. Members and guests interacted during the meeting, reinforcing the importance of networking and collaboration.
Alron Rodrigues, Secretary of RACHANA, proposed the vote of thanks. The formal programme concluded with dinner and networking.
The soft launch marked an important first step towards RACHANA Trade Expo 2027, with the organisation looking forward to the active participation of its members, the wider business community and well-wishers in making the initiative a success.
