Our Story

A Personal Journey That Inspired a Community

My Memory Cafe began with a deeply personal experience. In 2013, founder Sheldon Lobo faced the challenges of supporting a loved one diagnosed with dementia.

While seeking guidance and resources in Goa, he connected with dementia care professionals Dr. Amit Dias and Anita Jarvis. Together, they recognized a growing need among seniors not only for dementia support, but also for companionship, social interaction, and meaningful engagement.

Inspired by this need, they envisioned a welcoming community where seniors could connect, learn, participate, and thrive.

From Three Seniors to a Thriving Community

In April 2019, My Memory Cafe launched its first program, Whoopi Wednesday, with just three seniors. Through engaging activities focused on cognitive stimulation, social connection, and emotional well-being, the community quickly grew through word of mouth.

Soon after, additional programs were introduced, attracting seniors looking for companionship, purpose, and opportunities to stay mentally active.

Today, My Memory Cafe supports more than 200 seniors through a variety of activities designed to encourage active aging, memory care, and meaningful community engagement.

Meet Our Founders

The Memory Cafe Goa Foundation was founded by Sheldon Lobo, Maria Lobo, and Ashutosh Raut Desai with a shared vision of creating a compassionate and inclusive community for individuals living with dementia, memory loss, and related conditions, as well as their families and caregivers.

Together, they are committed to raising awareness, fostering meaningful connections, and creating safe spaces where every individual feels valued, respected, and supported.

Vision

To create a future where every senior has the opportunity to age with confidence, independence, and hope. We aspire to build communities that promote cognitive wellbeing, emotional health, meaningful friendships, and active participation, ensuring that every older adult experiences a sense of belonging, purpose, and respect.

Growing older should never mean growing lonely. At My Memory Cafe, we create spaces where seniors find friendship, purpose, joy, and the confidence to live every chapter of life with dignity.

Mission

To create a nurturing and inclusive environment where seniors can thrive through cognitive stimulation, emotional support, social connection, and purposeful engagement. By promoting healthy ageing, reducing loneliness, and raising awareness about dementia prevention, we aim to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of older adults and their families.

Our Purpose

At My Memory Cafe, our purpose is to bring joy, connection, and meaningful moments into the lives of seniors by creating a warm, supportive, and engaging community where every individual feels valued and appreciated.

We focus on four core pillars of well-being

Through these pillars, we aim to put a smile on every senior’s face and make each moment truly meaningful.

Cognitive Functioning

Encouraging mental stimulation, memory engagement, and lifelong learning through meaningful activities.

Psychological Health

Supporting overall mental well-being through purposeful interactions, mindfulness, and compassionate care.

Emotional Resilience

Creating a safe and uplifting environment that nurtures confidence, positivity, and emotional strength.

Social Well-being

Building strong social connections, friendships, and a sense of belonging within the community.

"Memory Café is truly innovative every activity is planned with thoughtfulness, care, and heart. A special mention to Sheldon, the driving force and steady support behind MC, who keeps everything sailing smoothly."

Edith Furtado