Tag: Tribute

EduConnect

Vibrant Goa Foundation Hosts High-Level Zimbabwe Delegation for Education and Innovation Exchange

Tanisha Cardozo

Vibrant Goa Foundation, as part of its flagship Global Knowledge Outreach initiative, played host to a high-level educational delegation from Zimbabwe on the 8th of September, marking a significant milestone in fostering global collaborations in the fields of education, technology, and innovation. The visiting delegation was led by Mr. Moses Mhike, Permanent Secretary in Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, accompanied by Mrs. Olicah Kaira, Chief Director – Primary, Secondary and Non-Formal Education, and Mrs. Ashell Ruswa, CEO of Errymaple Group of Schools in Zvishavane. The visit was coordinated by Mr. Yogesh Kerkar, Managing Director of Qurious Minds, an emerging force in global educational exchange and innovation consulting.

The event, held as an Educational Round Table, brought together an array of influential voices from Goa’s academic and innovation ecosystem. Representing the Vibrant Goa Foundation were trustees Mr. Rajkumar Kamat, Mr. Arman Bankley, Mr. Manoj Patil, Mr. Vinay Verma, Mr. Rasik Naik, Mr. Dinesh Dhulapkar, Mr. Ajay Gramopadhya, Mr. Gautam Kharangate, and Mr. Milind Anvekar. Also participating were eminent representatives from Goa University, Don Bosco College of Engineering, Dhempo College, MES College, Directorate of Higher Education, Goa Institute of Management, Government Polytechnic and other leading institutions, making this gathering a truly collaborative one.

The discussions were vibrant and focused on a broad range of educational themes including the adoption of EdTech tools, STEM learning, GIS, Robotics, Drones, Learning Management Systems, and ICT solutions. The Zimbabwean delegation expressed deep appreciation for Goa’s forward-looking efforts in integrating technology at the school and university levels. The event served as a dynamic platform to explore synergies and initiate meaningful collaborations between Zimbabwe’s education system and Goa’s innovation-driven institutions.

A highlight of the discussion was the mutual recognition of the potential for long-term partnership, with Mr. Moses Mhike acknowledging the practical and strategic value of the knowledge shared during the visit. He emphasized that Zimbabwe sees Goa as a potential partner in transforming its own educational landscape. Adding to the momentum, Mr. Yogesh Kerkar noted that Qurious Minds has already embarked on a collaborative project with a Zimbabwean entity—evidence of how dialogues are translating into action.

The delegation also took note of the recent success of the Amazing Goa Summit, which further cemented Goa’s image as a global hub for innovation, education, and entrepreneurship. Mr. Rajkumar Kamat concluded the session with a forward-looking invitation to the delegates to participate in the forthcoming Global Tech Summit and Global Business Expo & Summit 2026.

This initiative reflects Vibrant Goa Foundation’s vision of driving Goa’s global engagement, supporting startups and educational institutions to expand internationally, and creating a vibrant ecosystem of innovation-led growth. The collaboration with Zimbabwe stands as a model for future partnerships, enabling the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and innovation that transcends borders.

Music

Pop Icon Connie Francis Dies at 87: A Voice That Defined a Generation

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Connie Francis, one of the most influential pop voices of the 1950s and ’60s, has passed away at the age of 87 in Florida, as confirmed by longtime friend and DJ Bruce “Cousin Brucie” Morrow. Her cause of death is yet to be confirmed, though she recently spoke of being in “extreme pain.”

Born Concetta Franconero in Newark, New Jersey, Francis rose to fame after her 1958 hit “Who’s Sorry Now?” captured national attention via American Bandstand. This breakout moment led to a cascade of chart-toppers like “Stupid Cupid,” “Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You,” and “Pretty Little Baby”—the latter recently going viral on TikTok and earning her a new generation of fans.

But her journey was far from easy. Her romantic relationship with Bobby Darin was famously cut short by her controlling father. In 1974, she survived a violent assault in a motel room, an event that haunted her for years. Her brother’s tragic death in 1981 and her subsequent battles with mental health added to her emotional scars.

Despite these personal setbacks, Francis continued to advocate for public safety and victim support. She was once appointed to a U.S. crime task force by President Ronald Reagan. Through it all, music remained her constant. Married four times, she often referred to music as her “one true love.”

Her final years were marked by a warm embrace of online platforms and fan engagement, proving her relevance even in a digital age. She often acknowledged the joy of seeing younger audiences discover her music.

Connie Francis leaves behind a legacy built not only on melody and emotion, but on resilience and reinvention. A symbol of strength through adversity, she remains etched in musical history as both a survivor and a star.

Entertainment

“Kaanta Laga” Retired Forever as Makers Honour Shefali Jariwala’s Legacy

allycaralgoa

Mumbai, July 3, 2025: In a heartfelt tribute to the late Shefali Jariwala, the unforgettable face of the 2002 chartbuster Kaanta Laga, the song’s creators Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru have announced that the track will never be recreated, remixed, or reprised again.

The duo, who directed the original music video that turned Shefali into a pop culture phenomenon, made an emotional statement saying that Kaanta Laga belongs solely to her. “Shefali Jariwala is and will always be the one and only Kaanta Laga girl,” they stated. “This song is hers. We cannot imagine anyone else stepping into her shoes, and we never will.”

The directors likened the gesture to retiring the jersey number of a legendary athlete, a practice often used in sports to honor a player’s irreplaceable contribution. “Just like how a team retires a great player’s number, we are retiring Kaanta Laga. It will remain untouched—forever associated with Shefali,” they added.

Shefali Jariwala’s performance in the music video redefined the landscape of Indian pop music in the early 2000s. With her bold styling, electric screen presence, and dance moves, she left an indelible mark and earned the moniker “The Kaanta Laga Girl.”

Her sudden demise has sent waves of grief across the industry and among fans, many of whom remember the song as a defining anthem of their youth. Social media has been flooded with tributes and throwbacks, reflecting the deep cultural impact of the song and Shefali’s iconic presence.

The decision to retire the song not only cements Shefali’s legacy but also respects the emotional bond millions have with the track and the woman who made it legendary.

The song that once launched a thousand remixes will now rest in silence—a poignant and powerful reminder of Shefali Jariwala’s unmatched charisma and the mark she left on Indian pop history.

#faith

Catholic Association of Goa Pays Tribute to Pope Francis

allycaralgoa

The Catholic Association of Goa (CAG) recently expressed its deepest sorrow and pain at the sudden passing away of His Holiness Pope Francis. In a heartfelt statement, the CAG paid tribute to the late Pope’s legacy, highlighting his unwavering commitment to peace, hope, and reconciliation.


Pope Francis was a consistent voice for peace in a world plagued by conflicts. He spoke out against injustice and advocated for the poor and marginalized, leaving behind a perpetual legacy that transcends the boundaries of the Church.


The late Pope’s legacy is built on Christian and Gospel values of transformation, truth, justice, freedom, simplicity, equality, dignity, inclusivity, and harmony with God’s creation. His poignant words in his last Easter Message to the world, Urbi et Orbi, will continue to ring in our hearts and minds.


The CAG joins in prayerful communion with the grief-stricken millions, praying that the Almighty grants Pope Francis eternal rest. As we remember his legacy, we are called to action to work towards a more just and compassionate world, inspired by his example.


The Catholic Association of Goa remembers Pope Francis as a champion of peace, justice, and Gospel values. His passing is a loss for the global community, but his legacy will continue to inspire us to work towards a better world.


The CAG pays tribute to Pope Francis, a great leader who left an indelible mark on the world. His commitment to his faith and his people will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to guide us in our journey towards a more just and peaceful world.

Social

Tribute to a Legendary Leader: Governor Arlekar and MLA Salkar Pay Respects to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

allycaralgoa

In a poignant ceremony, Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar and Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar recently offered Aadaranjali at the statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, paying tribute to the legendary leader’s enduring legacy and values.

A Life of Courage and Perseverance
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, was a symbol of courage, perseverance, and commitment to justice. His life serves as a powerful inspiration to the younger generation, urging them to emulate his admirable traits.

Governor Arlekar’s Vision for a Brighter Future
Governor Arlekar’s remarks during the ceremony underscored his commitment to promoting values-based leadership and inspiring the youth to become active participants in nation-building. His vision aligns with the ideals of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was known for his bravery, wisdom, and compassion.

The Lasting Impact of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s Legacy
As we reflect on Maharaj’s remarkable journey, we are inspired to emulate his values and strive for a brighter future. The Aadaranjali ceremony served as a fitting tribute to his memory, reminding us of the enduring impact of his life and legacy.