During the visit, students were introduced to the fundamentals of the startup ecosystem, including how startups differ from traditional businesses and the benefits of being officially recognised as a startup.
The session also highlighted various programs and initiatives offered by AIC-GIM, particularly those designed to support students and women entrepreneurs. Participants gained insights into incubation support, mentorship, funding guidance, and networking opportunities.
The interaction was highly participative, with students actively engaging in discussions, asking questions, and exploring practical pathways to enter the world of entrepreneurship.
AIC-GIM continues to encourage aspiring innovators and students to explore entrepreneurship and build impactful ventures, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing Goa’s growing startup ecosystem.
The Women’s Wing of the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), in association with the Ubuntu Consortium of Women Entrepreneurs Association, organised the TechShe Program – “Basic and Advanced Digital Transformation Training” on February 17, 2026, at the Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall.
Chairperson Sandra Fernandes welcomed the participants, while GCCI President Pratima Dhond addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of equipping women entrepreneurs with digital skills to remain competitive in an evolving business landscape.
The programme was graced by Chief Guest Ranjita Pai, Chairperson of the Goa State Commission for Women, and Guest of Honour K. Ratna Prabha, IAS (Retd.), Founder President of the Ubuntu Consortium. Jyoti Balakrishna, Founder and Honorary Secretary of the Ubuntu Consortium, was also present.
The training session was conducted by Resource Person Deepali Gotadke, who shared practical insights on building a strong digital presence, effectively using social media platforms and adopting digital payment systems to support business growth. The session was interactive and well received by participants.
Gouri R. Joshi, Vice Chairperson, introduced the Guest of Honour, while Clare D’Souza introduced the Chief Guest. The programme was compered by Adv. Adbrona Vaz e Valadares. Women’s Wing members Pallavi Salgaocar, Deepali Naik and Simran Dhond were also present. The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Co-Chairperson Adv. Poonam Ajgaonkar.
The programme was generously sponsored by Dr. Celso Fernandes of Nave Marg Financial Services, who also addressed the gathering on financial discipline and the importance of long-term savings. Certificates were distributed to participants at the conclusion of the event. The programme was coordinated by Melane Rodrigues, Assistant Director, GCCI.
Porvorim, October 14, 2025 — The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Women’s Wing, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, has brought festive cheer to Goa with the “Diwali Dil Se” Festive Bazaar, inaugurated at Mall de Goa, Porvorim. The vibrant three-day event, running from October 14 to 16, 2025, showcases the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Goan women.
The festive bazaar was inaugurated by Ms. Deepali Naik, Project Director, District Rural Development Agency (South), who lauded the initiative as a meaningful platform for women to display and sell their handmade and locally crafted products.
Ms. Sandra Fernandes, Chairperson of the GCCI Women’s Wing, warmly welcomed the stall owners and participants, expressing gratitude to Ms. Lavanya Shet, GCCI WW Committee Member, for leading the initiative to provide free stalls for women entrepreneurs.
“This event is more than a marketplace — it’s a celebration of creativity, empowerment, and community,” said Ms. Fernandes. “We are proud to offer women a platform to grow their businesses and connect directly with customers during the festive season.”
Rtn Jeet Tolani, President of the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera, commended the collaboration and applauded the commitment of the GCCI Women’s Wing in fostering inclusive growth.
The Chief Guest, Ms. Deepali Naik, encouraged the entrepreneurs to continue innovating and expanding their ventures, wishing them success and resilience.
The event also saw active participation from Co-Chairperson Ms. Poonam Ajgaonkar, who proposed the Vote of Thanks, and Ms. Gouri Joshi, who compered the programme with warmth and enthusiasm.
Committee members present included Ms. Simran Dhond, Ms. Swatee Rane, Ms. Adbrona Valadares, Ms. Clare Marchon, and Ms. Melane Rodrigues, along with Rtn Rosevelt Valadares.
“Diwali Dil Se” continues through the weekend, offering visitors a delightful festive shopping experience featuring home décor, traditional crafts, jewelry, sweets, and artisanal Diwali gifts — all crafted by Goan women entrepreneurs.
As the lights of Diwali illuminate Goa, this bazaar stands as a shining example of women-led enterprise and community collaboration — truly, Diwali Dil Se.
