Tag: Motivation

Business

You Need to Build Your Own Brand to Be Successful in Today’s World: Walter Mascarenhas

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Rency Gomes, Team Allycaral

In today’s competitive and fast-changing world, building a strong personal brand is as important as achieving financial success, said motivational speaker, corporate trainer and former Indian Air Force squadron leader Walter Mascarenhas during his talk titled Ask and be Rich. The lecture was organised as part of the ongoing centenary lecture series of Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias in Panaji in January 2026.

Mascarenhas stressed that true success comes from being in demand and cultivating a strong reputation. He said that qualities such as honesty, kindness, discipline and sincerity form the foundation of a personal brand. According to him, individuals who are known for these values naturally attract opportunities and professional growth.

Explaining his three-pronged ASK approach—Attitude, Skills and Knowledge—Mascarenhas highlighted the increasing importance of soft skills in both personal and professional life. He observed that abilities such as communication, interpersonal skills, problem-solving, decision-making, stress and time management, along with critical and creative thinking, are essential life skills that are often not adequately addressed in formal education.

He elaborated that knowledge includes facts, information, awareness, education and experience, all of which enable better decision-making and innovation. Attitude, he explained, determines how individuals think, feel and behave, ultimately shaping outcomes in life and work.

Mascarenhas also spoke about achieving a fulfilling and balanced life by working on both mental and physical well-being. He referred to neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) as a tool to influence thought patterns and emotional responses, saying that happiness is a conscious choice that individuals can make most of the time.

Addressing the fear of failure, he encouraged the audience to focus on persistence, consistency and patience. He emphasised that progress comes from small, daily efforts rather than mere planning or intention. He also underlined the importance of physical fitness through proper diet, exercise and a positive outlook.

Drawing from his diverse experiences in the Indian Air Force, corporate training, skydiving and scuba diving, Mascarenhas concluded by advocating lifelong learning. He urged people to remain students throughout their lives, continuously improving themselves and overcoming fear as a key step toward personal growth and long-term success.

Human Interest

Delhi University Student Pays First-Year College Fee Entirely Through YouTube Earnings

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

A Delhi University student has captured the internet’s attention with her inspiring story of how she funded her first-year college fee entirely through YouTube. In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, she shared how what began as a casual effort to help her juniors study more effectively evolved into a meaningful journey of purpose, creativity, and financial independence.

She explained that her journey started back in school, when her juniors would often seek advice on studying better and staying consistent. Realizing she enjoyed helping others, she decided to record a short five-minute video for Class 10 students before her own Economics pre-board exam. “No editing. No fancy thumbnail. No planning. Just pure intent,” she wrote. That spontaneous decision would eventually change her life.

Initially, her video received only about 50 to 100 views, but within a month, the channel started to gain traction. Soon, it was monetized. “I had been creating content for quite some time, but I never thought of commercializing it,” she said. “When that happened, I decided to double down on what I loved doing.”

Through consistent effort and genuine passion for teaching, her channel began generating income — enough to cover her first-year college fee. “I covered my first year’s college fee from YouTube. Yes, the entire first-year fee. Of course, it wasn’t a huge amount since I study in a government college, but for me, it’s still a big feat. Something I never thought would happen, especially from social media,” she wrote.

Concluding her post, the student shared an empowering message for aspiring creators. “If there’s something you’ve been wanting to start — a channel, a blog, a podcast — don’t wait for the ‘right’ time. Just start. If you enjoy it, keep going. And if you ever get a chance to turn that passion into something bigger, go for it.”

She emphasized that social media is not just a space for numbers or fame but a powerful medium for growth, learning, and connection. “Share what you know. Share your story. You never know who might need to hear it,” she said.

Although she has taken a short break from YouTube, she hinted at returning soon, concluding her post with, “Once a creator, always a creator.”

Her story has since gone viral, with countless young people praising her dedication and determination. Many called her journey a reminder that passion projects can lead to tangible, real-world rewards — and that small beginnings often create the biggest impact.

Sports

Goa Has Sporting Talent but Needs the Right Guidance and Support: Mandar Rao Dessai

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim, Goa – The passion for football in Goa remains as vibrant as ever, and former Indian national team footballer and current Chennaiyin FC player Mandar Rao Dessai believes that the state has the potential to produce even more world-class athletes — provided they receive the right guidance and support.

Speaking at a sports kit distribution event in Arpora–Nagoa, organized by the V.P. Arpora–Nagoa Panchayat, Mandar emphasized the importance of nurturing young sporting talent through community involvement and mentorship. Reflecting on his own journey, the 33-year-old footballer recalled the challenges he faced during his early days. “When I started playing, there were challenges — lack of kits, infrastructure, and support. But today, everything is available,” he said.

Mandar noted that while opportunities for sports have grown significantly across India, many young players still struggle due to limited financial and infrastructural support. He urged everyone — from local organizations and coaches to families and sports clubs — to come together to provide the right environment for emerging athletes. “We all should come together to motivate and guide young players so they can become great athletes,” he said.

The footballer also highlighted the crucial role that families play in shaping the careers of young sportspersons. “Support from family and friends — whether moral or financial — is crucial. I have represented my state and country, and I know there are many more talented players in Goa who just need the right training and guidance,” he added.

Calling discipline and dedication the cornerstones of success, Mandar expressed optimism that Goa will continue to produce outstanding athletes who can make India proud. “Football runs in the blood of every Goan,” he said, capturing the enduring spirit of the state’s connection with the sport.

During the event, Mandar thanked the Panchayat officials for their efforts in promoting grassroots sports and encouraged further development of local sporting infrastructure. His message was clear — with passion, perseverance, and community backing, Goa’s next generation of athletes can achieve greatness on national and international stages.

National

Dr. Sai Kaustuv Creates Stunning One-Finger Artwork for PM Modi’s 75th Birthday

Tanisha Cardozo

On the 75th birthday of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India witnessed a powerful gesture of tribute and creativity from an extraordinary individual. Dr. Sai Kaustuv Dashgupta, a name synonymous with resilience and inspiration, created a graphic artwork dedicated to the Prime Minister using only one finger of his left hand.

Living with a rare brittle bone disease that has caused more than 50 fractures and left him 90% disabled, Dr. Sai defies all odds. What others might see as limitation, he transforms into possibility. Using assistive technology and sheer willpower, he crafts powerful graphic designs that speak louder than words.

Fondly known as the “Wheelchair Warrior,” Dr. Sai is a National Award winner, Global TEDx Speaker, India’s first disabled Certified Happiness Coach, and a 16-time World Record Holder. His journey stands as a beacon for persons with disabilities across India and beyond.

His special birthday artwork for Prime Minister Modi is more than a visual tribute—it is a celebration of human potential, creativity, and gratitude. Dr. Sai says, “For me, art is not just an expression—it is a way of life. The inspiration I draw from our Prime Minister constantly gives me the courage to contribute to India.”

This creation not only showcases his artistic brilliance but also serves as a reminder that no matter how tough the circumstances, with determination, positive thinking, and passion, every challenge can be transformed into a masterpiece.

May Dr. Sai’s indomitable spirit and creativity continue to be blessed, inspiring millions and contributing toward a stronger, more inclusive India.

Human Interest

Age Is Just a Number: Kerala’s Leela Jose, 71, Skydives From 13,000 Feet

allycaralgoa

Leela Jose, a 71-year-old homemaker from Konnathady in Idukki, Kerala, has become the oldest woman from the state to skydive from 13,000 feet. With this daring leap, she has shattered stereotypes and proven that age should never be a barrier to chasing dreams.

The dream took shape a few months ago when she spotted an aircraft flying overhead and casually mentioned to her friends, “How much fun it would be to do skydiving!” Her friends laughed, dismissing it as a fantasy given her age. But Leela held on to her determination and found a way to make it happen.

On the day of her jump, Leela soared high above the skies and took the leap — not just from the aircraft, but also from every boundary set by society. “It felt like freedom,” she said after completing the dive.

Beyond Skydiving: Eyes on Space

With her skydiving dream fulfilled, Leela isn’t stopping. She has now set her sights on an even more ambitious goal — space travel. For her, the sky is not the limit but just the beginning.

Her story is a beacon of inspiration, showing that courage, passion, and dreams have no expiry date.