Why do you ask for age and profession data?
Such information is useful to develop statistical demographic data of the Goan community worldwide and particularly in the Diaspora. The data on the composition of our community based on age and profession, may be useful in attracting organizations and corporations to advertise and or rent booths for displaying their products. This raises funds that can be used to defray expenses of the Convention.

Is there a cancellation charge for Hotel reservations?
Attendees who will be making Hotel reservations at a listed hotel need to note that a non-refundable deposit (one night room rate) per room will be charged for EVERY room reservation at the time of booking. The deposit will be charged at the time of the room reservation, so we discourage name and credit card changes. This is done to ensure that the room block will not sell out prematurely from holds.

I want to make a donation. How do I do this?
You may donate while registering by on-line or by mail-in. There is a section for donation amount just before the line with "Total Amount." However for donation amounts exceeding $1000, we advise you to contact Ben Antao at (416) 225-9047; (416) 250-8885; or help@2008goanconvention.com and we will be happy to assist you in this matter. Please do see our How to Sponsor page for more details.

How can I participate in the entertainment program?
You may contact the Entertainment Committee at: help@2008goanconvention.com. Please also see our Performers page for currently scheduled acts.

Can I advertise my business at the Convention?
Yes you can. Please check out our Sponsors page for more details.

Do you have booths for rent at the Convention?
Yes. Please refer to our Other Events/Booths page for more details.

Can I help the Convention by Volunteering my time?
Yes. We would welcome help from dedicated persons like you. There are opportunities for working in the area of stage management, food service, ushering, hospitality and others. You may fill out the Volunteer section in the Registration Form (On-line or Mail-in) and some one will contact you.

Which hotels do you recommend for attending the Convention?
We will be recommending a preferred hotel after the 31 January, 2008, near to the UTM and it will be the preferred hotel for the convention. For your convenience, a limited number of rooms at discounted rates will be blocked at this hotel. For the promotion code please see our Accomodation page for more details on this.

Should I rent a car for attending the Convention?
Our recommendation is to use the hotel shuttle for coming from Lester B. Pearson airport to the hotels. For other airports, car rental may be advisable/shuttle service.

What do we hope to achieve at the end of the 2008 "Goan Convention"?
 
The 2008 Toronto International Goan Convention is a full-fledged 3-day international working conference of native Goencars and the worldwide diaspora - committed to powerful initiatives for our homeland and celebration of our unique Goan identity. We hope to be the historic instrument of change for generations to come.