Tag: Women Achievers

Events in Goa

Nominations Open: 13th Orchid Award for Women Achievers of Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa is a land of culture, talent, and untold stories — especially those of women who are quietly yet powerfully shaping their communities, industries, and the future. Recognizing the need to bring such stories to light, the Orchid Group is proud to announce the 13th edition of the Orchid Award for Women Achievers of Goa.

This unique award ceremony is the first of its kind in the state and was introduced to celebrate women who embody excellence, resilience, and impact in their respective fields. From trailblazers in education and sports to changemakers in rural development and business, these awards are a tribute to the spirit of Goan women.

The categories for this year include: Education, Art & Culture, Sports, Social Work, Journalism, Business, Rural Development, Woman Achiever with Disability, Girl Child Prodigy, and the prestigious Life Time Achievement Award. Each category is crafted to ensure that a wide range of contributions and accomplishments are recognized and honoured.

Nominations are now open, and the invitation is extended to every corner of Goa. Whether you’re a woman who has made a mark or you know someone who deserves this recognition, now is the time to act. The Orchid Award is not just an accolade — it is a movement that aims to uplift, encourage, and inspire future generations of Goan women.

Celebrate the women who inspire us. Celebrate Goa. Nominate today.

Last date of nominations 05th November 2025

Human Interest

Neha Byadwal: The 22-Year-Old Who Became One of India’s Youngest IAS Officers

allycaralgoa

By Allycaral Team | Inspiration

In a world full of distractions, Neha Byadwal is proof that focus, perseverance, and discipline are unbeatable traits on the road to success. In 2021, at just 22 years old, she cracked one of the toughest exams in the world — the UPSC Civil Services Examination — securing All India Rank 569 and becoming one of India’s youngest IAS officers.

Born in Jaipur and raised in Chhattisgarh, Neha’s inspiration came from home — her father, a senior income tax officer, was her earliest role model. From a young age, she aspired to serve the country through the civil services.

But it wasn’t just talent that got her through. Neha made unbelievable sacrifices. She gave up her mobile phone for three full years, avoiding every possible distraction. “For me, UPSC was not just an exam. It was my dream,” she has said in interviews.

A college topper and SSC exam qualifier (multiple times), Neha chose not to settle. Despite clearing SSC exams, she didn’t take up any of the job offers. Her only goal was the UPSC CSE.

Neha’s achievement continues to inspire aspirants across India, especially young women dreaming big. She exemplifies the idea that one can be both grounded and ambitious, disciplined and compassionate, brilliant and beautiful.

📍 From Jaipur to Chhattisgarh to India’s Bureaucracy — IAS Neha Byadwal’s journey is one of grit and grace.

📖 Read more inspiring stories only on allycaral.com

Entertainment

A Moment of Pride: Manisha Koirala Conferred Honorary Doctorate by University of Bradford

Tanisha Cardozo

Bollywood icon Manisha Koirala has added a new feather to her illustrious cap. The celebrated actress has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Bradford, United Kingdom — a recognition she describes as a moment filled with deep emotion and gratitude.

Sharing the news on Instagram, Manisha wrote,

“It’s a huge honor to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford, especially in the year it’s been named the UK City of Culture 2025. Even more meaningful to share this recognition alongside the talented Daniel Lee, Creative Director of Burberry.”

Manisha proudly posted a photograph from the ceremony, donning her academic robes and cap, her face glowing with pride. A few days prior, she also posted a video clip from the graduation ceremony, giving her followers a glimpse into the meaningful celebration.

In a heartfelt reflection, she stated,

“Today, I received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford. I stand here not as someone who came through the traditional path of education, but as someone who learned through life—through hard work, failure, resilience, and service.”

Her message struck a powerful chord — especially among aspiring artists, women, and anyone who has walked an unconventional path to success.

She continued,

“This honor means more than I can put into words. It’s proof that no matter where you start, your journey matters.”

The timing of the award makes it all the more special, coinciding with Bradford’s selection as the UK City of Culture for 2025, a celebration of cultural diversity, creativity, and inclusivity.

Manisha Koirala, who made a powerful return to the screen as Mallikajaan in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, is admired not only for her cinematic contributions but also her candidness about surviving cancer, her advocacy for health, and her work toward empowering women.

This honorary doctorate marks yet another chapter in her inspirational journey — one that continues to touch lives across generations and geographies.

Human Interest

Goan Women Break Barriers: Samiksha Velip and Gauri Mavlinkar Appointed Konkani Interpreters in Lok Sabha

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji | July 2025 — Goa has added another feather to its cap as two of its daughters — Samiksha Velip from Canacona and Gauri Mavlinkar from Mapusa — have been appointed as Konkani Interpreters in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament. This achievement represents not only a personal triumph for the two women but also a major step forward in the representation and recognition of the Konkani language on a national platform.

Samiksha Velip, who hails from Bhupar-Gaondongrim in Canacona, is one of two selected candidates for the prestigious role. A postgraduate in Konkani from Goa University, she began her academic journey at Shri Mallikarjun & Chetan Manju Desai College, Canacona, which proudly celebrated her achievement. College Principal Dr. Rupa Chari stated, “Samiksha’s appointment is a matter of immense pride and inspiration for our students. We wholeheartedly wish her success in her parliamentary role.”

Joining her is Gauri Mavlinkar, a scholar from Mapusa, who successfully cleared the Consultant Interpreters Empanelment Test to secure her place in the Lok Sabha’s interpretation team. Her selection reflects not only academic merit but also a passion for language and public service.

The appointment of these two trailblazing women underscores the growing recognition of regional languages like Konkani in India’s administrative and legislative spheres. It also highlights the important role of women in shaping public discourse and policy from behind the scenes.

This milestone is not just about language — it’s about identity, representation, and empowerment. As Goa celebrates this achievement, it also shines a light on the institutions and educators nurturing such talent at the grassroots level.

From classrooms in Canacona and Mapusa to the chambers of the Indian Parliament, the journeys of Samiksha Velip and Gauri Mavlinkar serve as powerful reminders that with passion, education, and perseverance, no goal is too far.