The Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG) has announced the recipients of its Young Achievers Awards-2025 to Aston Soares, Pierson D’Costa, Fevila Fernandes, and Maria Suizel Afonso — in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Goan tiatr stage.

The awards honour young artistes who have excelled in acting, music, direction, and performance, keeping alive the rich legacy of Konkani tiatr.

TAG President Anthony Barbosa congratulated all the awardees and praised their dedication and artistic excellence, stating that their achievements serve as an inspiration for Goa’s younger generation.

Aston Soares from Margao, gifted in acting and singing, began his tiatr journey in 2007 with khell/Khell –tiatr directed by Menino Mario. Encouraged by Mario, Aston continued to grow as an artiste, performing in several tiatrs and collaborating with well-known directors such as Anthony De Cunha, Inacio Dias, Milagres De Chandor, and Menino De Bandar. His versatility and dedication have earned him a respected place in the tiatr fraternity. He has written and directed several khell and tiatr, besides songs.

Pierson D’Costa, a talented writer, director, singer, and composer from Navelim started his career in 2014 with Novo Dis Udetana. His directorial debut Tunch Chintun Poi (2022) was widely appreciated, and he has recently released his new tiatr ‘Munis Mortoch Roddon Faido Nam’ for release in 2025. Besides his work on stage, Pierson has made a mark in Konkani films and music, performing across Goa and Mumbai and sharing his creations through Pierson D’Costa Official on YouTube and major music platforms.

Fevila Fernandes, a 25-year-old musician from Paroda-Quepem, is recognised for her exceptional talent in drumming, bass guitar, and saxophone. Having performed for renowned directors like Menino Mario, John D’Silva, and Wilma Pacheco, she has also sung duets and recorded songs, earning the title of Goa’s “Youngest Musical Queen.”

Maria Suizel Afonso, from Cumbharjua, is honoured for her acting excellence, having performed in over 25 tiatrs under directors such as Pascoal De Chicalim, Romeo D’Costa, and Antonet De Souza. Her performances in Swachh Bharat, Sopon, Rochna, and Tum Mhaka Zai highlight her versatility and commitment to the stage.

Through these Young Achievers Awards, TAG continues to nurture and celebrate Goa’s emerging talent in the vibrant world of tiatr. The date and venue for the award presentation function will be announced later.