ಉಮೆದ್ 2026: MDS Charities | Inspiring Youth, Transforming Lives: 'UMED 2026'

Over 900 students, parents, educators, clergy, and well-wishers gathered at the Bejai Church Hall in Mangaluru for 'Umed 2026', an orientation and educational support programme organized by Michael D’Souza and Family Charities (MDS Charities). Designed to break financial barriers, the initiative focuses on empowering needy and deserving youth of the community to pursue professional and higher education. Key Highlights of the Event: Presidential Address: Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, described philanthropist Michael D’Souza and his family as "a gift of God to the community". Reflecting on the philosophy of "Care, Support, and Empower," the Bishop noted: "If you want to touch the future, touch a life." Impact & Reach: Delivering the keynote address, Prof. CA Lionel Aranha presented a 13-year overview of the trust's reach. Under Educare, ₹36.14 Crore has benefited 3,838 students between 2013 and 2025. For the academic year 2026, ₹4.84 Crore stands sanctioned for 505 students in the Mangalore Diocese. MDS Charities Alumni Network: Plans were unveiled to establish an alumni network under the motto "One Life Touching Another" to build a community of mentorship, career guidance, and continuous support. Youth Empowerment Session: Resource person Richard Alvares (Cordel) conducted an interactive session centered on three key pillars: Investment, Innovation, and Inspiration. Exhortation by Chief Guest: Rev. Fr Faustine L. Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, encouraged students to study diligently, cultivate practical skills, and support others in need. Testimonies & Dignitaries: Student beneficiaries shared impactful personal accounts of how MDS Charities transformed their academic journeys. The session opened with a prayer led by Rev. Fr Stany Pereira, Parish Priest of Bejai. Sahitya Akademi Awardee (2025) H. M. Pernal compered the event, and Reena D’Costa delivered the vote of thanks. The program concluded with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration solemnized by Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha.