The Lions Club of Loutolim recently celebrated the achievements of two outstanding individuals from the village, Rupesh Jogale and Mario Pimenta, during a special felicitation ceremony held as part of the official visit of District Governor PMJF Lion Jai Amol Naik.
The event began with a warm welcome by President Lion Allen Araujo, who highlighted the consistent efforts of the club in serving the community despite being based in a rural area. Secretary Lion Alwyn Mascarenhas presented a detailed overview of the club’s initiatives since July, which included environmental efforts like sapling distribution during Vanamahotsav, educational support for deserving students, financial aid, and various charitable activities.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of two local talents who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Rupesh Jogale, a respected name in Goan theatre and direction, was honoured for his dedication to the performing arts. Known for his powerful portrayals, including roles depicting Jesus Christ, Jogale shared his journey and expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon him.
Mario Pimenta, a young and promising filmmaker from Goa, was also felicitated for his growing achievements in cinema and participation in various competitions. At just 21, Mario reflected on his journey, acknowledging the unwavering support of his family, especially his mother and sister. He encouraged aspiring individuals to pursue their dreams with confidence and action, noting that such recognition at a young age was both motivating and humbling.
District Governor PMJF Lion Jai Amol Naik congratulated both honourees and commended the Lions Club of Loutolim for its impactful work. He encouraged more individuals to join the Lions movement, emphasising its core philosophy of service and positive societal impact. During the event, he also presented letters from the International President of Lions Clubs International to veteran members, along with medals and badges, recognising their long-standing dedication.
Treasurer MGF Lion Joaquim Monteiro delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all attendees and contributors to the event’s success. With nearly five decades of service, the Lions Club of Loutolim continues to play a vital role in fostering community development while celebrating and encouraging local talent.
Inspiration can appear in the most unexpected moments — even while watching spooky videos on a quiet evening. For 15-year-old singer-songwriter Shanaya Rebelo, it sparked the creation of her latest pop-rock single, ‘Zombies in the Street’, a Halloween-themed track filled with fun, energy, and youthful creativity.
“I wanted to make something fun — a song that’s a little eerie but still energetic and light-hearted,” says Shanaya, who has previously released tracks with strong messages of hope and environmental awareness. The idea took shape during a casual jam session with her friends, who later became her bandmates. “It actually started on my birthday,” recalls the Class 10 student at The Phoenix homeschool in Panaji. “We were just jamming for fun, and the harmonies sounded so good that we decided to record it.”
The teen band, aged between 11 and 16, includes Alethea, Kristyn, and Mia on backing vocals, Zach on drums, and Tracii (from Sharada Mandir School) on bass — with Shanaya on lead vocals and guitar. The group rehearsed and recorded the track entirely live at Groovebox Studios, spending hours fine-tuning their sound. “It was a new experience for most of them, but they were amazing,” says Shanaya. “Working with friends made it even more special because everyone brought in their own ideas.”
Kristyn recalls, “At Shanaya’s birthday, she played us a few of her songs. We really liked ‘Zombies in the Street’, tried some harmonies, and it just clicked.” Zach adds, “The band was formed just for this song, and it was so much fun.”
The music video, filmed near Shanaya’s school, captures a playful Halloween atmosphere with friends acting as zombies. “My friends played the zombies, and we had one main character trying to escape them,” she explains. “It was a total group effort — from costumes to filming. Sumaiya and Jaherul handled the camera work brilliantly, and Mysticka did a great job editing it.”
“For me, the best part was singing together at the studio,” shares Mia, while Kristyn laughs, “Wearing that zombie mask during the shoot was the coolest thing!”
A singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Shanaya Rebelo began her musical journey at age eight with ‘Merry Merry Christmas’ on All India Radio, Panaji. Since then, she has released several singles through Jazz Goa and Boskon Studios, including ‘Levitating Space’, ‘Save the Earth’, and ‘I Won’t Give Up’. Known for her mix of pop, funk, and jazz influences, Shanaya writes, composes, and produces her own music, preferring live recordings for their authentic sound.
Her latest release, ‘Zombies in the Street’, is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Bloom Music, and other major platforms, with the official video premiering on her YouTube channel.
“Sharing my music with the world gives me the utmost happiness,” says Shanaya — a sentiment that perfectly sums up her creative spirit and the joy her music brings to those who listen.
“Make art when no one cares. Make it raw, make it real. That’s where your true voice takes shape—not through perfection, but through consistent, honest expression.” – Sharmila Coutinho
Sharmila Coutinho’s journey as an artist is one that beautifully blends resilience, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose. She recalls how drawing came naturally to her, never forced or taught, but simply present as her happy place—a space where the world made sense. At just seven years old, a simple Santa gift of a 24-shade colour set opened a world of endless hues and possibilities. That magic box was the first spark that set her on a path she would later choose to embrace fully.
Encouraged by her mother, Sharmila joined Bal Bhavan, where her creativity was nurtured in countless ways, from the art studio to the music room, from clay modeling to the library where she first discovered Vincent van Gogh’s letters. These experiences shaped her perspective, revealing not only the struggles of an artist but also the beauty of persistence and self-expression. Although she initially chose the conventional path of science and computer studies, her heart was always drawn back to colour and canvas. Dropping out to pursue Fine Arts was one of the most defining choices of her life, one that came with struggles but also profound fulfillment.
Her path as an artist was far from smooth. She faced doubts—both her own and those of others—but chose to bloom where she was planted. She worked hard, supported herself, and learned the ways of the art market through experience and even through setbacks. Her studio in Goa became the place where her work reached people across the world—Spain, the UK, and beyond—all without her chasing opportunities. Instead, her art spoke for itself. Among her many milestones, two stand out: conceptualizing and designing the Lusofonia Games torch, a seashell-inspired piece that symbolized unity among coastal nations, and creating the official IFFI poster when the festival first came to Goa.
Today, Sharmila continues her creative journey as Deputy Infographic Editor at The Times of India, where she works with visionary editors and design professionals who recognize her talent. She sees art not as confined by borders but as an evolving practice of growth and expression. For her, creativity begins in silence, in stillness, and in the ability to declutter both the mind and surroundings. Travel, music, psychology, and deep conversations fuel her inspiration, while minimalism helps her maintain the clarity to create.
Creating for Meaning, Not Metrics
She acknowledges the challenges—self-doubt, external pressures, fleeting digital attention spans—but believes true growth lies in creating for meaning, not metrics. For aspiring artists, her advice is simple yet powerful: create when no one is watching, create without applause, and create because it fulfills you. Recognition may come, but fulfillment lies in the process itself.
Looking ahead, Sharmila hopes to reconnect with the tactile side of art after years of working in the digital realm. She dreams of returning to hands-on creation—painting, experimenting, and building with materials directly.
Her journey is ongoing, her canvas still open, and through it all, one truth remains: stay true, don’t lose yourself in the noise, and let your creativity continue to bloom without borders.
Sonam R. Korgaonkar’s journey into the world of makeup artistry is more than a career transition — it’s a story of passion rediscovered, of artistic identity reclaimed, and of a woman daring to rewrite her narrative. As we celebrate International Makeup Day on September 10, her path reminds us that beauty is not just surface-deep — it’s deeply personal, endlessly creative, and courageously transformative.
Once immersed in the structure and stability of the corporate and automobile sectors, Sonam always carried within her an unspoken fascination for beauty — not just the outer kind, but the kind that uplifts, empowers, and transforms from within.
It wasn’t until later in her career that she made the bold decision to follow her passion wholeheartedly. What began as a quiet interest in makeup eventually blossomed into a deeply fulfilling profession where creativity meets purpose. For Sonam, makeup is not just about technique — it’s about confidence, connection, and storytelling. Every client is a canvas, and every brushstroke is a step closer to helping them see themselves in their best light.
Why Bridal & Celebrity Makeup?
Her decision to specialize in luxury bridal and celebrity makeup came from a desire to do more than create looks — she wanted to create moments. Whether it’s the hush of a bridal suite or the fast-paced energy of a celebrity shoot, Sonam brings a deep sense of intention and artistry to every setting. For her, each assignment is about understanding a person’s essence — their story, their style, their spirit — and reflecting that with elegance and grace.
Being based in Goa has also profoundly influenced her creative lens. The tropical landscapes, golden light, and vibrant cultural fusion have helped shape a makeup style that is effortlessly luxurious and harmoniously natural. Working with destination brides from across the globe has taught her the delicate balance between glamour and authenticity — a signature aesthetic that has now become her hallmark.
Bridal makeup, she believes, is deeply personal. It needs to reflect not just the bride’s personality but also stand the test of time. With celebrity and editorial work, she enjoys the freedom to push boundaries and experiment — but even then, her approach remains thoughtful and refined. Whether it’s a glowing bride under the Goan sun or a celebrity walking onto a high-stakes set, Sonam’s work is rooted in creating beauty that feels elevated, not overpowering.
She recalls some of her most memorable projects as the ones where she could truly align her vision with that of her clients — where trust, creativity, and chemistry came together to create something unforgettable. One of her all-time favorite creations is her signature “sunset bridal look,” crafted especially for destination weddings. On the celebrity side, she thrives in high-pressure moments where artistry meets adrenaline.
Signature Style
What sets Sonam apart is her bespoke approach. She begins each project with an in-depth consultation, tuning into the client’s vision, personality, cultural context, and even the energy of the event. From there, she meticulously selects the right shades, textures, and finishes to build a look that feels entirely authentic — never copied, never generic. No two brides are the same, and for Sonam, that’s where the magic lies.
As someone always ahead of the curve, Sonam is constantly researching and experimenting. Whether she’s attending global masterclasses, studying new techniques, or testing out products at international beauty counters, her commitment to growth is unwavering. She doesn’t just add products to her kit — she investigates them, tests them, and studies their performance over time before they make the cut.
Clients often recognize her work instantly — radiant, velvety skin that looks like it’s lit from within, soft-focus eyes in warm peach and brown tones, and harmonized lips and blush that create a seamless, ethereal glow. Her signature aesthetic has become synonymous with elegance that feels effortless and skin that looks like a second, more luminous version of itself.
Of course, the world of luxury weddings and celebrity work isn’t without its challenges. High-pressure environments, tight timelines, and sky-high expectations are the norm — but Sonam’s calm presence, precision, and preparation allow her to navigate them with grace. She sees these moments not as obstacles, but as opportunities to prove that beauty under pressure can still be beautiful.
Sonam sees her clients not just as customers, but as collaborators. She believes in listening deeply, co-creating, and delivering not just what the client asks for, but something even better — something that feels true to who they are while being aspirational in finish. It’s this delicate blend of vision and intuition that elevates her work beyond artistry — into experience.
During peak wedding season, her days are long and exacting, starting early and revolving around curating one flawless moment after another. Despite the physical demands, the reward lies in the joy she brings to her clients. That moment when a bride looks in the mirror and sees not just makeup, but her most confident self — that, Sonam says, is priceless.
Skincare is at the core of her process. She believes great makeup starts with great skin — clean, nourished, hydrated, and respected. Her product choices reflect this philosophy: from rich moisturizers to long-wear foundations that feel like air, and lipsticks that last without losing their charm. Her top three must-haves for any bride? A deeply hydrating moisturizer, a flawless yet weightless foundation, and a long-lasting lipstick that holds its ground from ceremony to celebration.
For Sonam, the most fulfilling part of her journey is witnessing the transformation — not just of appearance, but of emotion. Seeing a bride glow with happiness, or a celebrity light up with confidence, is her greatest reward. It’s in those smiles, those moments of quiet pride, that she knows her work is more than skin-deep.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, Sonam dreams of taking her artistry global — collaborating with luxury beauty houses, working with international celebrities, and creating bridal masterpieces in iconic destinations across the world. Each new opportunity, she believes, is a chance to blend culture, creativity, and elegance in new and exciting ways.
To the young women looking up to her and dreaming of a career in beauty, Sonam offers this: stay passionate, be patient, and never stop learning. The beauty industry is fast-paced and ever-evolving, but what sets you apart is consistency, authenticity, and your love for the craft. Success isn’t instant — it’s built brushstroke by brushstroke, day by day.
And if she could sum up her philosophy in one line, it would be this: “True makeup artistry celebrates and elevates a person’s natural beauty, leaving an impression that lingers beyond the mirror.”
Papersmith began not as a business, but as a quiet hobby. Donna D’Souza, with a deep-rooted love for art and craft, spent her spare time creating handmade cards, gifts, and artworks for her close circle of friends and family. These thoughtful creations became cherished keepsakes. What started as casual gifting soon found itself at a curious crossroads. Encouraged by friends during a casual conversation, Donna created a small page to showcase her work—just for fun. She had no idea that her hobby was about to blossom into something more. People not only loved what they saw—they wanted to buy it. That’s when Papersmith began its transformation into a homegrown brand.
But building something from scratch wasn’t easy. Donna had to navigate everything from sourcing reliable vendors to understanding pricing models, packaging, timelines, and most importantly, customer expectations—all while managing every detail on her own.
💡 Inspiration in Every Corner
Where does Donna find her creative spark? Everywhere. From whimsical imagination to heartfelt reference images, she draws inspiration from a wide range of sources. But what sets her apart is how she reinterprets references to make something uniquely hers. Her golden rule: never replicate—always reinterpret. And the most powerful source of all? Her clients’ stories. From personal memories to touching milestones, Donna transforms emotions into designs that speak volumes.
💬 Custom-Tailored, Just for You
Each piece Donna creates is personal—because she makes sure it is. Every order begins with a detailed conversation where clients share the occasion, their color preferences, dislikes, size requirements, and even emotional details. Whether it’s for a housewarming, a birthday, or a wedding, Donna ensures each project becomes a collaborative experience.
Even when clients request a recreation of a past design, Donna gives it a unique spin. She starts with a sketch and invites feedback before bringing the artwork to life. Every detail, down to the placement of each strip, is carefully curated—no templates, no shortcuts. Just genuine, personalized art.
🕰️ A Thoughtful Timeline, A Careful Process
To maintain her creative rhythm without compromising on quality, Donna follows a four-week timeline for most orders. It begins with sketching a draft and sharing it with the client. After incorporating any feedback, she moves on to the quilling stage—rolling, shaping, and assembling intricate paper strips. Once complete, the piece goes for framing before it’s finally packed and delivered.
Throughout the journey, Donna keeps her clients in the loop. Every update is a reassurance, and over time, this transparent approach has built deep trust between artist and audience.
🏡 The Nameplates That Became a Signature
Among all her creations, one product stands out: the nameplates. These quickly became Papersmith’s most loved and ordered items. There’s something deeply special about having your name beautifully quilled and placed at the entrance of your home or bedroom. During the pandemic, demand for these nameplates skyrocketed—with Donna crafting over 20 per month at one point. Even today, they remain a staple product and a symbol of the brand’s identity.
✍️ The Step-by-Step Creative Journey
Donna’s artistic process is meticulous. It starts with conceptualizing the idea—playing with font styles, motifs, and color palettes. Next comes the rough design sketch, which is then refined with client feedback. After final approval, she begins the intricate quilling work. Once the piece is complete, it’s framed and carefully packaged. This step-by-step structure helps Donna maintain consistency and a high standard of finish in every single piece.
📲 More Than Just Art—A Community
Papersmith isn’t just about paper—it’s about people. Donna goes the extra mile to keep her audience engaged through relatable content, polls, fun reels, and behind-the-scenes peeks on social media. This approach has helped build a community that feels seen, heard, and involved. The best part? When clients reach out months—or even years—later to say their artwork still brings joy, it reaffirms why she does what she does.
💼 Daytime Deadlines, Nighttime Designs
Juggling a full-time corporate job alongside running a creative business isn’t easy. Most of Donna’s weekdays are consumed by desk work. But creativity doesn’t follow office hours. Inspiration strikes unexpectedly—in a conversation, an image, or even a quiet moment. Donna notes these ideas down and explores them when time allows, often during evenings and late nights.
🌪️ Chaos, But Make It Beautiful
Creative work isn’t always tidy. Donna’s workspace often becomes a lively chaos of paper strips and tools, but within that mess lies magic. The actual artwork is always handled with the utmost care, and she finds humor in the clutter—like losing a tool seconds after setting it down. This chaos, she admits, is part of the adventure.
✨ The Dream? Not Fame—But Impact
Unlike many, Donna doesn’t dream of collaborating with celebrities. Her dream collaboration is more grounded—seeing her work featured in a prestigious magazine or on the desk of a respected editor. Such recognition would elevate the art of quilling and bring her handmade stories to a wider audience.
🌙 Creativity After Dark
Donna’s most inspired hours? The night. Back in college, nights were the only time she could create—and the habit stuck. Today, she still finds herself quilling through the night, completely immersed in her craft. These peaceful hours, when the world is quiet, are when she feels most connected to her art.
As a first-generation entrepreneur, Donna’s path was paved with trial and error. In the early days, she often overworked herself—skipping meals, staying up late, and pushing hard to keep up with demand. But time taught her the value of balance. Now, she takes intentional breaks, whether it’s reorganizing her studio or simply resting. This space helps preserve her creativity for the long run.
💬 Feedback That Fills Her Cup
What do clients love most about Donna’s work? Its precision. The clean lines, perfect curves, and overall neatness never fail to impress. That attention to detail is what makes every piece so treasured—and what brings customers back again and again.
Every review, whether a short thank-you or a heartfelt note, is a memory Donna holds close. Clients often write in to say the piece made someone cry with joy or lit up their home. These messages are more than testimonials—they’re emotional fuel that keeps her going on difficult days.
🌍 What’s Next for Papersmith?
Looking ahead, Donna hopes to grow Papersmith beyond Goa and India—to reach hearts across the globe. She dreams of conducting workshops, teaching others the art of quilling, and fostering a wider appreciation for this intricate craft. She envisions her handmade pieces finding homes all over the world, continuing to tell stories through the timeless beauty of paper.
Papersmith is not just a brand—it’s a labor of love, a journey of self-expression, and a testament to the magic that happens when passion meets purpose.
