Business

Paytm CEO Varun Sridhar to Launch Ponda’s First Jaycee Chamber of Commerce – JCOM Ponda Table 1.0


Ponda, Goa – July 3, 2025 : In a landmark development for Goa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, JCI Ponda will officially launch Ponda’s first-ever Jaycee Chamber of Commerce (JCOM) – JCOM Ponda Table 1.0 on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM. The grand installation ceremony will take place at Hotel Menino Executive, Ponda, marking a transformative moment for local business networking and youth-led leadership initiatives.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest is none other than Mr. Varun Sridhar, CEO of Paytm Services Ltd., India, a dynamic leader known for reshaping India’s fintech landscape. Mr. Sridhar’s presence underscores the national significance of this local milestone.

Also in attendance will be Guest of Honour Dr. Ketan Bhatikar, Managing Director at Sparc and a noted social worker. The event will see a confluence of regional business leaders and JCI dignitaries including:

  • Zone President: JFD Shaba Gauns
  • Zone Vice President: JC HGF Dr. Shilpa Raghava
  • Zone Director – Business: JFM Chetan Salelekar
  • Zone JCOM Chairman: JCI Sen. Ria Patil Chandray
  • JCI Ponda President: JC Vadiraj Inamdar

The highlight of the ceremony will be the formal installation of JC Nikhil V. S. Sangaokar as the first Chairman of JCOM Ponda, a respected entrepreneur known for his leadership in Ponda’s business community. JC Nikhil will be supported by a dynamic leadership team committed to driving ethical entrepreneurship, business innovation, and community collaboration.

About JCOM: Empowering Business Through Leadership

JCOM (Jaycee Chamber of Commerce) is an initiative under JCI India aimed at fostering a robust platform for entrepreneurs, professionals, and aspiring business leaders. It promotes ethical business practices, structured networking, and leadership training — empowering the next generation of changemakers in India’s economic fabric.

A Catalyst for Change

The launch of JCOM Ponda Table 1.0 represents more than a ceremonial event—it signifies a new chapter in Goa’s business growth story. It will serve as a catalyst for collaborative ventures, innovation-led dialogue, and mentorship for youth with entrepreneurial aspirations.

JCI Ponda invites all business owners, startups, and professionals from Goa to be a part of this landmark occasion and witness the birth of a platform designed to nurture leadership through commerce and community engagement.

Social

JCI Mapusa Crowned Champions of JCI India Zone XI MID CON 2025 for ‘Natrang: An Essence of Art and Passion


In a dazzling celebration of creativity, culture, and competitive spirit, JCI Mapusa emerged victorious at the JCI India Zone XI MID CON 2025, clinching the championship title for their outstanding performance in ‘Natrang: An Essence of Art and Passion’. The prestigious event was hosted by JCI Sanguem on June 22, 2025, at Sant Sohirobanath Government College, Virnoda, and brought together Junior Chamber International (JCI) chapters from across the zone.

‘Natrang’, a cultural showcase themed around the essence of art and passion, served as the perfect canvas for participants to express their talent through dance, drama, music, and visual art. JCI Mapusa stood out with their exceptional creativity, coordination, and presentation, captivating both judges and audiences alike.

From soulful performances to energetic expressions of heritage, the competition witnessed an incredible display of skill and teamwork. The event celebrated not just performance arts, but the dedication, leadership, and community spirit that define JCI’s mission to develop young active citizens.

Highlights of the Event:

  • Over 20 JCI chapters participated in various competitive and cultural categories
  • A panel of renowned judges from the fields of art, media, and performance evaluated the entries
  • The event saw an enthusiastic turnout of members, supporters, and guests from across Goa and neighboring regions
  • Workshops and networking sessions were also held to promote leadership and collaboration among JCI members

JCI Mapusa’s win is a testament to their hard work, unity, and passion for the arts, as well as their commitment to the JCI values of personal development and positive community impact.

The host chapter, JCI Sanguem, was widely appreciated for its seamless organization, warm hospitality, and dynamic execution of the event, which upheld the JCI legacy of excellence.

As the curtains close on this year’s MID CON, the energy and inspiration of ‘Natrang’ continues to echo through the JCI community, reigniting a shared commitment to empowering youth through art, leadership, and civic engagement.

Congratulations to JCI Mapusa – the Champions of MID CON 2025!

Health

JCI Ponda Leads International Yoga Day Celebration at Dharbandora School, Promoting Wellness Among Youth


Dharbandora, Goa | June 21, 2025 — In alignment with the global spirit of International Yoga Day, JCI Ponda organized a rejuvenating yoga session at Matoshri Anandibai Vaman Marathe Vidyamandir, Dharbandora. The initiative aimed to inspire young minds to embrace the timeless practice of yoga as a tool for physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.

The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 100+ students from the school, who engaged in various yoga asanas, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques in a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere.


🌿 Building Healthy Habits Through Yoga

The session began with light warm-up exercises to prepare the body and mind, followed by a sequence of foundational yoga asanas such as:

  • 🪷 Padmasana – The Lotus Pose for meditation
  • 🌲 Tadasana – The Mountain Pose for posture and balance
  • 🪑 Vrikshasana – The Tree Pose for strength and concentration

These were complemented by a set of Pranayama techniques (breathing exercises) and a short guided meditation session to help students center themselves and experience inner calm.

The school premises were filled with the energy of focused students and committed mentors — reflecting the core message of Yoga Day: “Yoga for Harmony and Peace.”


👩‍🏫 A Community Effort Rooted in Support

The success of the program was made possible by the active support of school leadership and JCI Ponda members. Ms. Manjusha Ravindra Naik, Headmistress of the school, was specially thanked for her encouragement and vision in fostering a culture of health and mindfulness among students.

JCI Ponda was also honored by the presence of:

  • JFP Sneha Naik, Past President
  • JC HGF Janhavi Shet Tilve, Past President
  • JC HGF Amey Shet Tilve
  • JR JC Rushank Natekar

Their presence lent inspiration and gravitas to the session, reinforcing JCI Ponda’s commitment to youth development through impactful community initiatives.


🧘‍♀️ Reflections from the Organizers

JC Vadiraj Inamdar, President of JCI Ponda, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the school and the team, saying:

“Yoga is a lifestyle, not just a practice. It’s encouraging to see young students connect with something so deeply rooted in our culture yet so relevant in today’s fast-paced world.”

JFM Muskan Naik, Secretary, and JC Mahadev Shinde, Project Coordinator, were instrumental in organizing the event, ensuring smooth execution and meaningful engagement throughout the session.


🌞 A Step Towards a Healthier Tomorrow

The event closed with collective reflections, gratitude, and a renewed pledge to carry forward the practice of yoga beyond just one day — into the daily routines of these young learners.

By integrating yoga into school activities, JCI Ponda has once again demonstrated its dedication to holistic youth development and community wellness.

Human Interest

🎉 JCI Vasco Celebrates 59th JCI Founders’ Day with Grandeur and Pride


Vasco, Goa – June 2025:

In a vibrant and heartfelt celebration, JCI Vasco marked its 59th JCI Founders’ Day at Hotel Supreme, Vasco, bringing together members, dignitaries, and alumni in a tribute to a legacy of leadership and community service.

The event was graced by the Zone President of JCI India Zone XI, JC…. Shaba Gauns, and Zone Vice President JC…. Dr. Shilpa, adding great significance to the occasion. Their inspiring presence reaffirmed the enduring impact of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) movement in the region.

The evening’s proceedings were led by JC HGF Amol Kamat, who served as the Chief Guest. A respected figure within the JCI network, his words of encouragement and vision resonated deeply with the audience.

Adding to the occasion’s importance was the presence of several Past Presidents of JCI Vasco, whose leadership and contributions over the years laid the foundation for the organization’s continued growth and relevance.

JCI Vasco holds a special place in Goa’s development journey. The chapter was founded in 1966 by an Irish gentleman, Mr. Ian Naylor, whose pioneering spirit introduced the JCI movement to the region. What started in Vasco soon inspired the establishment of new chapters across Goa and parts of Maharashtra, creating a ripple effect of youth development, leadership training, and civic participation.

Junior Chamber International is a global organization dedicated to personal development, leadership, and community involvement. With a presence in over 100 countries, JCI empowers young active citizens to take responsibility for creating positive change in their communities and the world.

At its core, JCI focuses on:

Leadership and personality development

Community service projects

Entrepreneurial skills training

International networking opportunities

Over the decades, JCI Vasco has become a beacon of this mission, nurturing leaders, organizing impactful community events, and inspiring countless youth across Goa.

As JCI Vasco enters its 60th year, the celebrations are not just about honoring the past, but also about envisioning the future. With a new generation of young leaders stepping up, and a strong support system built over five decades, JCI Vasco continues to uphold the ideals of active citizenship, development, and service.

Human Interest

JCI Ponda Hosts Memorable Valedictory Ceremony of Speechcraft 2025


Celebrating Communication, Confidence & Leadership at Its Best

Ponda, Goa | May 2025 — JCI Ponda proudly hosted the Valedictory Ceremony of Speechcraft 2025, marking the culmination of a transformative journey in communication, leadership, and personal development. The event brought together aspiring speakers, mentors, and dignitaries to celebrate the incredible progress of participants who committed themselves to growth and self-expression through the powerful platform of Speechcraft.

The evening was elevated by the presence of Chief Guest Shri Advocate Narendra Sawaikar, whose words of wisdom and encouragement resonated deeply with both the participants and attendees. His address emphasized the importance of communication as a cornerstone of effective leadership and public engagement, inspiring many young minds in the audience.

A special note of appreciation was extended to the driving forces behind Speechcraft 2025:

  • Pilot Faculty: JFM Hitesh Giriya
  • Co-Pilot Faculties: JC Dattaram Bicholkar and JC Anju Desai

Their commitment to mentoring and nurturing the participants played a pivotal role in transforming nervous speakers into confident communicators.

The presence of Zone President JFD Shaba Gauns and Acting Chairman of Speechcraft, JC HGF Dr. Shilpa Raghava Silveria, further added prestige to the event. Their support and words of encouragement reaffirmed the role of JCI in fostering leadership and self-development among youth.

The true stars of the evening were the participants of Speechcraft 2025, who impressed with their command over speech, poise, and presence. A special congratulations to our top five standout participants:

  • JC Vadiraj
  • JC Juhi
  • JC Jijith
  • JC Khyati
  • JC Bhushan

In addition, accolades were awarded to Outstanding Performers who truly raised the bar with their impactful oration:

  • JC Ansh
  • JC Amit
  • JC Sahil

Each participant received recognition not just for their final performances, but for their personal journeys of improvement, confidence-building, and camaraderie throughout the course.

The success of Speechcraft 2025 was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the entire JCI Ponda team. From planning to execution, every element was meticulously crafted to provide a platform for growth and inspiration.

“This journey was not just about learning to speak — it was about finding your voice and learning to lead with it,” said JC Saikrishna Mandrekar, Chairman of Speechcraft 2025.

The event was ably supported by:

  • JFD Shaba Gauns, Zone President
  • JC Vadiraj Inamdar, President, JCI Ponda 2025
  • JFM Muskan Naik, Secretary & Project Director

The Speechcraft program, long considered a flagship initiative within the JCI ecosystem, once again proved its value in empowering individuals to overcome stage fright, express ideas effectively, and lead with confidence. With each passing year, JCI Ponda continues to nurture the next generation of changemakers through programs like these.

As the curtains fell on Speechcraft 2025, the message was clear — communication is not just a skill, it’s a superpower, and every participant left the hall empowered to use it.