Panaji, January 2026: Underprivileged Goan students with an interest in technology received hands-on exposure to user-centred design and digital workflows through a campus outreach initiative by Goa-based digital transformation firm Kilowott. The company hosted learners from the Ponda-based Tata STRIVE at its Porvorim campus as part of its efforts to support early industry exposure.
Tata STRIVE works to equip youth from underprivileged communities with quality skill training aimed at improving employability, entrepreneurship opportunities and livelihood outcomes. As part of the visit, ten students from the Ponda centre took part in an interactive session on UX and UI design led by Kilowott’s senior designer, Ashley Custodio Mendonsa.
The session introduced students to the fundamentals of digital product design, team collaboration and the journey of ideas from concept to execution. Learners also observed real-world workplace processes, helping them understand the expectations and dynamics of technology-driven roles.
The visit offered students a practical perspective on problem-solving and collaborative workflows, helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry requirements.
Kilowott stated that such initiatives are part of its broader commitment to nurturing future talent in Goa by providing young learners with early exposure to professional environments and emerging career paths in design and technology.
In a notable initiative to promote Menstrual Health & Hygiene, JCI Farmagudi, in association with TATA Strive and IMA Goa, organized an insightful awareness session on the occasion of World Menstrual Hygiene Day and Prayas Day. The event, which took place on Wednesday, 28th May 2025, at TATA Strive, Farmagudi, focused on educating young girls about menstrual health, hygiene practices, and the importance of maintaining cleanliness during their menstrual cycle.
The session was led by renowned Dr. Purnima Usgaonker, a distinguished expert in the field of women’s health. Dr. Usgaonker provided an in-depth understanding of Menstrual Health & Hygiene, helping the attendees—26 students in total—gain better knowledge about their body’s functions and how to take care of their hygiene during menstruation. The talk emphasized precautions, cleanliness, and self-care, enabling the young girls to approach menstruation with confidence and awareness.
Dr. Usgaonker explained the importance of maintaining a hygienic menstrual cycle and how improper hygiene could lead to health complications. Her interactive session not only focused on the physical aspects of menstrual health but also provided psychological reassurance to the students, removing the stigma often associated with menstruation.
As part of the awareness session, the event also included the distribution of Organic Sanitary Napkins. This was a crucial part of the event, as it introduced the attendees to eco-friendly and sustainable menstrual products. Organic sanitary napkins, made from natural materials, were provided to the students, and Dr. Usgaonker shared important insights on their benefits over conventional synthetic sanitary products.
The discussion included the advantages of using organic sanitary pads—which are biodegradable, free of harmful chemicals, and safer for women’s health. Dr. Usgaonker explained how these pads not only help in maintaining hygiene but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the amount of plastic waste generated by conventional sanitary products.
This initiative would not have been possible without the generous contribution from JCI Senator Ria Patil Chandray, who provided the “Josa – Organic Sanitary Pads” for the distribution. These organic pads have gained popularity for their eco-friendly properties, and Ria’s support was instrumental in making the distribution a reality.
The session was well-received by the attendees, with many students expressing gratitude for the valuable knowledge shared by Dr. Usgaonker. The awareness program aimed not only to educate the girls about menstruation but also to encourage open conversations about menstruation, a topic that is often shrouded in taboo in many communities.
The event’s success can be attributed to the combined efforts of JCI Farmagudi, TATA Strive, and IMA Goa, who came together to promote menstrual health awareness in the community. Their collaborative effort to engage young girls in such an important discussion shows their commitment to empowering women through education and awareness.
The event was organized by the JCI Farmagudi team, led by Jc Abida Shaikh, President, Jc Amin Hipargi, Secretary, and Jc Heena Momin, Lady Jaycee Coordinator. Their dedication to bringing this event to life was evident in the smooth execution of the session and their role in ensuring that the students left with important knowledge that will benefit them in the long run.
In conclusion, the Menstrual Health & Hygiene Awareness Session organized by JCI Farmagudi, in association with TATA Strive and IMA Goa, was a successful and impactful initiative aimed at educating the youth about menstrual hygiene and promoting sustainable menstrual products. With the help of expert speakers like Dr. Purnima Usgaonker, this event marked a significant step forward in eliminating the stigma surrounding menstruation and empowering young girls with knowledge for better health and hygiene practices.
