In the bustling world of finance and technology, there exists a Goan luminary who seamlessly blends his professional prowess with a passion for philanthropy and humour. Meet Clayton Gonsalves, a 35-year old Goan fin-tech professional, currently based in Northampton, UK. Hailing from the picturesque village of Ambaulim in Quepem, Clayton’s journey from the sun-kissed shores of India to the financial hub of the United Kingdom is not just a tale of professional success but also one of giving back to society.
From Goa to the UK: A Journey of Learning and Growth
Born and brought up in Ambaulim, Clayton’s academic pursuits led him to the United Kingdom in 2011 where he secured a scholarship to complete his MBA at Cardiff University. This transformative experience not only equipped him with the skills essential for his career but also broadened his horizons. After successfully completing his MBA, Clayton embarked on his professional journey with an internship in Corporate Marketing at IHG Group.
As he continued to grow in his career, he had the privilege of working on a variety of projects that allowed him to apply his knowledge and skills and gain valuable experience in the finance industry. His commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements propelled him to his current position of Assistant Vice-President of Business Analysis for Voice, Chat, and Artificial Intelligence at Barclays Bank, UK. In his current role, Clayton has been actively involved in various projects related to voice chat and AI, which are at the forefront of innovation in the banking sector.
Balancing Act: Professionalism and Passion for Sports
Beyond the boardroom, Clayton finds solace and inspiration in the world of sports. An avid follower of cricket, football, and various other sports, he recognises the lessons these sports impart— lessons of teamwork, determination, and the importance of a robust work ethic. This dedication to balance and holistic growth echoes in both his professional and personal life.
Venturing into philanthropy
Apart from his professional pursuits, Clayton is also an active humanitarian. He is actively involved in the organising of fundraising activities for various charitable institutions in Goa. Clayton’s foray into philanthropy was triggered by two significant events in his life. One was, when in June 2023, his father’s good friend in the UK approached him with a request for fundraising in support of charitable causes in Goa. This initial request triggered in Clayton a sense of responsibility and a desire to give back to the community in Goa.
Also, Clayton’s experience of witnessing the tragic loss of his brother-in-law to cancer during the early years of his marriage, motivated him to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by similar challenges. It drove him to embark on a mission to help other cancer patients facing similar hardships and contribute in providing them with all the necessary support they require.
His Philanthropic Pursuits
One of the first philanthropic projects which Clayton undertook was a charity fundraiser organised by a group called the United Goans of Quepem. This event not only marked Clayton’s inaugural foray into charitable activities but also laid the foundation for the United Goans of Quepem Group.
The event aimed to raise funds to aid various institutions and projects in Goa. It was a collaborative effort that brought together like-minded individuals and organisations to contribute to the betterment of the community. This year’s event supported the following institutions in Quepem:
- Holy Cross Convent School Quepem
- Sr. Christobel’s Trust, Quepem
- Nitya Seva Niketan – Home for Girls, Rivona
The Goan Comedy Central: Where Humour Meets Social Commentary
A man of diverse talents, Clayton is also the brain behind ‘The Goan Comedy Central’, a social media platform he established about a year and a half ago. Rooted in his passion for co-curricular activities from his school days, the channel features comedy videos with a focus on political humour,
satire, and more recently, roast videos. Despite the challenges of balancing his demanding job with content creation, Clayton’s dedication to entertaining and engaging his audience with humour remains unwavering.
Future Plans: Charitable Initiatives and Beyond
Looking ahead, Clayton envisions a future where his charitable activities span both the UK and Goa. In the UK, he continues to support organisations like Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation, aligning his charitable efforts with his professional endeavours. In Goa, despite facing skepticism and challenges, Clayton remains committed to changing perceptions surrounding charity events. His future plans involve effective communication, emphasising genuine intentions, and building trust within the community.
Words of Wisdom for Goan Youth
As a beacon of success and philanthropy, Clayton offers words of encouragement to the the youth of Goa. He urges them to dream big, work hard, and embrace their passions, be it in education, arts, sports, or community service. He emphasises the power of unity, calling on the youth to support one another and collaborate on meaningful projects to make Goa a better place for all. Lastly, he encourages them to take pride in their Goan heritage and culture, reminding them that they are the stewards of the state’s rich history and vibrant traditions.
In Clayton Gonsalves, Goa has found a son who not only excels in the global arena of finance and technology but also carries the spirit of giving and laughter across continents. As he continues to break new ground in his professional journey and philanthropic pursuits, Clayton remains a shining example of how one individual’s dedication can make a profound impact on communities, both near and far. To catch a glimpse of the amazing comedy and roast videos created by Clayton, follow him on social media on:
Facebook: The Goan Comedy Central
YouTube: The Goan Comedy Central
