Tag: WomenEmpowerment

Events in Goa

Yin and Yang: A Celebration of Balance, Inclusivity and Inner Strength in Porvorim

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Yin and Yang – In Balance with Body and Mind, organised on December 14, 2025, in Porvorim by SoulSync founders Sridevi Badami, Monica Sirohi, Poonam Gupta and Komala Soares, unfolded as an evening rooted in empowerment, inclusivity and self-discovery. The event was envisioned as a safe and welcoming platform for women from diverse walks of life, many of whom stepped onto the ramp for the very first time, embracing fashion as a tool for healing, confidence-building and self-expression.

The evening was elevated by the presence of iconic Bollywood singer Hema Sardesai as the celebrity guest. Her warmth and soulful performance left the audience enthralled, adding an emotional and celebratory depth to the event. Around 150 women participated wholeheartedly, reflecting the strong sense of community and shared purpose that defined the gathering.

Choreographed by Nadia Khan, the fashion walk unfolded through four thoughtfully curated themes inspired by the concept of Yin and Yang. Nature’s Symphony invited participants to interpret natural dualities such as ice and fire or strength and softness through creative attire. Trails of Tradition celebrated India’s rich cultural heritage with ethnic wear, while Urban Harmony showcased confidence and modernity through western outfits. Balanced Soul brought together indo-western ensembles, symbolising the harmony modern Indian women embody in their daily lives.

Beyond fashion, Indian culture came alive through vibrant dance performances presented by participants themselves, ranging from classical and fusion to Bollywood and Gidda. The event stood out for its inclusivity, welcoming women of all age groups, senior citizens and differently abled participants, reinforcing SoulSync’s belief that empowerment knows no boundaries.

Women entrepreneurs were also given a platform to showcase their products through dedicated stalls, adding another layer of support and visibility to women-led initiatives. Importantly, the event was tied to charity, with a portion of the proceeds directed towards a meaningful social cause, underscoring the organisers’ commitment to giving back to the community.

Well received and widely appreciated, the event was applauded for being punctual, thoughtfully organised, visually engaging and deeply inclusive. Yin and Yang – In Balance with Body and Mind emerged not just as a fashion showcase, but as a heartfelt celebration of balance, resilience and the collective strength of women.

Business

Goa Sashakti EntrepreNaari Initiative Empowers 60 Women Entrepreneurs Across the State

allycaralgoa

Panaji, October 2025: A significant step toward strengthening women-led businesses in Goa has begun as the SBI Foundation, in partnership with SEED (Society for Education, Environment and Development), officially launched a new phase of the Goa Sashakti EntrepreNaari initiative. The programme has now commenced training for 60 women entrepreneurs selected from North and South Goa.

The goal is clear — to build a supportive, growth-driven ecosystem that empowers women food entrepreneurs with the skills, tools, and confidence needed to scale their ventures.

Building Expertise with Aspire For Her

This cohort benefits from subject expertise provided by Aspire For Her, a social enterprise dedicated to adding one million women to India’s workforce. Their involvement strengthens the initiative’s focus on digital visibility, branding, and strategic business scaling.

Together, SBI Foundation, SEED and Aspire For Her aim to equip women entrepreneurs with the right knowledge pathways, market connections, and mentoring networks that will help them transition from local businesses to scalable enterprises.

Who Are the ‘EntrepreNaaris’?

The 60 selected participants include home chefs, food processors, catering service providers and small food-business owners — many of whom have already built strong reputations within their communities.
However, the initiative will now help them elevate their operations through:

  • Enhanced branding
  • Strengthened digital outreach
  • Access to new markets
  • Expert mentoring
  • Networking with fellow entrepreneurs

Training Designed for Real-World Impact

In the next phase of the programme, participants will undergo:

  • Expert-led online workshops
  • One-on-one virtual mentoring sessions
  • Interactive knowledge-sharing circles
  • Networking with mentors and peers across India

These sessions aim to address common challenges faced by women entrepreneurs — from scaling operations and improving online presence to identifying market gaps and enhancing product visibility.

Leadership Voices

Sanjay Prakash, MD & CEO of SBI Foundation, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the initiative:

“This initiative is not just about enterprise development — it’s about unlocking potential, fostering self-belief, and enabling long-term resilience among women who are often the silent drivers of local economies.”

Romira Roy, Co-founder of SEED, added:

“The launch of this cohort is another step in creating pathways for women to scale their potential, access resources and strengthen their presence in the market.”

Growing Community of Women Entrepreneurs

Since its launch earlier this year, the EntrepreNaari initiative has received over 200 applications, from which 122 women entrepreneurs were shortlisted. This newly launched cohort now marks the start of a focused, structured training journey that will conclude with:

  • A final pitch fest, and
  • A graduation ceremony in January 2026

The initiative is shaping a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs ready to lead, innovate and transform Goa’s food business landscape.

TechPulse

DITE&C’s Skilling Initiatives Gaining Momentum Under Minister Rohan Khaunte

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s digital transformation has been rapid under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications Shri Rohan Khaunte. One of the key pillars driving this growth is digital skilling — an effort to ensure that Goa’s citizens are prepared for the opportunities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Goa is redefining its development narrative, not only through its rich tourism and cultural heritage, but also through a forward-looking digital vision that empowers every citizen. Guided by Shri Rohan Khaunte’s vision, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C) has been implementing initiatives that strengthen connectivity, nurture innovation, and prepare Goa’s workforce for the future.

At the heart of this vision lies the belief that development must be inclusive. The Department of ITE&C is committed to equitable growth, launching several initiatives aimed at building a digitally skilled population and bridging the digital divide, especially among youth, women, and marginalized communities.

One such initiative is the Free Laptop Distribution Scheme for Meritorious Students from the Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) communities. This scheme provides deserving students with the essential digital tools to access online education, skill-building platforms, and career opportunities. Since 2022, more than 300 students have benefited, highlighting the State’s commitment to inclusive digital empowerment. Students like Varad Matondkar from Lourdes Convent High School, Saligao, and Sohan Malgaonkar from Loyola High School, Margao, expressed gratitude to the Goa Government and Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte, emphasizing how these laptops have enhanced their learning experiences.

To further empower Goa’s youth, DITE&C has established IT Knowledge Centres (ITKCs) across the State. These centres offer job-oriented IT training programs designed to build employable skills. Currently, seven ITKCs operate across Bardez, Ponda, Sanguem, and other talukas, bringing digital learning closer to local communities. Over 20,000 training sessions have been conducted, benefiting more than 5,000 participants and resulting in nearly 19,500 e-certificates across 46 modules.

Recognizing the crucial role of women in social and economic development, the Department launched the Mahila Digital Shashaktikaran Yojana (MDSY). This flagship program aims to provide digital training to women, enhance their employability, and help them participate confidently in Goa’s digital journey.

An Additive Manufacturing Hub is also being developed under the Goa Information Technology Development Corporation (GITDC) to promote 3D printing technology. Through a structured three-level training program — beginner, intermediate, and advanced — the initiative ensures skill development for students, government officers, and trainers. Infinyt3D Pvt. Ltd. acts as a knowledge partner, providing technical expertise, software support, and operational guidance.

Under Shri Rohan Khaunte’s leadership, Goa is also gearing up for the next wave of innovation with the Goa AI Mission 2027. The mission envisions building a strong AI talent and infrastructure ecosystem from schools to startups. Plans include introducing AI courses in educational institutions, establishing the Goa AI Academy, and organizing AI bootcamps, masterclasses, and hackathons.

With these initiatives, Goa is positioning itself as India’s Creative and Innovation Capital — a State where technology meets inclusivity, and every citizen is empowered to thrive in the digital age.

Fit & Fabulous

Anita Dongre Opens Flagship Store in Beverly Hills, Taking Indian Craftsmanship to the Heart of Global Luxury

Tanisha Cardozo

Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre, celebrated globally for championing Indian craftsmanship and sustainable luxury, has opened her newest flagship store in Beverly Hills. Located at Gardenhouse, this marks the brand’s 13th store worldwide and its most significant U.S. expansion since the opening of her New York City flagship in 2018. Following her historic debuts in New York and Dubai, Dongre becomes the first Indian designer to unveil a flagship in Beverly Hills — a milestone that furthers her mission of taking India to the world.

The new space brings Dongre’s distinctive design language to one of the world’s most iconic luxury destinations. Here, contemporary silhouettes meet traditional artistry, offering an immersive experience of handcrafted couture and ready-to-wear designed for global connoisseurs. “The West Coast represents a very global way of living — open, creative, and deeply connected to nature and culture,” said Dongre. “Los Angeles understands slow luxury, craftsmanship, and conscious living. This moment belongs not just to me, but to every artisan whose hands shape our garments.”

The store’s interiors reflect Dongre’s modern interpretation of Rajasthan — imagined as a sanctuary of serenity. A delicate fragrance greets guests into an oasis of calm, where Indian crafts merge with contemporary design. Hand-painted Pichhwai walls, depicting flora and fauna, were meticulously crafted by artisans in Rajasthan. Each cushion, wallpaper, and piece of furniture has been hand-embroidered or designed in India, embodying Dongre’s philosophy of mindful luxury. Every detail — from flooring to lampshades — narrates a story of nature, craft, and quiet opulence.

Anchoring the space is a striking elephant matriarch and calf sculpture from “The Great Elephant Migration,” a global art movement featuring works created by indigenous Indian communities using invasive Lantana weeds. The installation symbolizes Dongre’s enduring commitment to sustainability and biodiversity under her guiding philosophy of “Fashion For Good.”

Over the years, Dongre has dressed global icons including Priyanka Chopra, Kate Middleton, Kim Kardashian, and Dakota Johnson, earning acclaim for her fusion of ethical craftsmanship and modern design. Her recent collaboration with Mattel — where she became the first Indian designer to create a Diwali Barbie — sold out within days, spotlighting South Asian representation and the beauty of Indian artisanship on the world stage. “Every piece we create is touched by women artisans whose skills have been passed down through generations. Bringing their craft to Beverly Hills gives their art the global stage it deserves,” she shared.

The opening event, hosted by Mindy Kaling and Poorna Jagannathan, brought together a vibrant mix of celebrities and tastemakers, including Anjula Acharia, Jay Shetty, Jeannie Mai Jenkins, Deepica Mutyala, Anjali Bhimani, Francia Raisa, Richa Moorjani, Saagar Shaikh, Yvonne Orji, and Anita Chatterjee. The evening celebrated culture, community, and couture — uniting Hollywood and Bollywood under one creative roof.

For Dongre, this new Beverly Hills home is more than just a store. It is a bridge between two storytelling cultures — Hollywood and Bollywood — both of which celebrate identity, beauty, and emotion. “Fashion becomes a bridge when it carries cultural heritage with pride,” she said. “With a space in LA, we can deepen our connection with stylists and artists, and create a haven where creativity and craftsmanship coexist.”

Rooted in Rajasthan, Dongre has long supported India’s artisan communities through initiatives that preserve and contemporize weaving, embroidery, and block printing, providing sustainable livelihoods to thousands of craftspeople. As she continues to expand globally, her commitment to conscious luxury, cultural authenticity, and women’s empowerment remains unwavering — a reminder that true luxury lies in purpose, not excess.

TechPulse

Goa Launches Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana to Empower Rural Women with Digital Skills

Tanisha Cardozo

Porvorim, August 7, 2025: With an eye on inclusion and innovation, the Government of Goa has launched the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana, a transformative scheme that aims to digitally empower women, particularly in rural and underserved areas of the state.

The scheme was officially launched at the PAC Hall, Secretariat, by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, along with Minister for ITE&C Rohan A. Khaunte, and dignitaries from Info Tech Corporation of Goa Ltd. (ITG) and the Directorate of IT.

“We are taking digital literacy to the Gramin women ensuring they are equipped with the confidence and skills to navigate today’s digital world,” said Dr. Sawant.

🎯 Why This Scheme Matters

As digital technologies increasingly shape economies and services, the gap between those with access and those without is growing. Women in rural areas often find themselves on the wrong side of this divide. This scheme directly addresses that gap by providing:

  • Essential digital literacy: Using smartphones, browsing the internet, accessing government schemes and financial tools.
  • Localized training: Conducted in familiar, accessible public venues such as panchayat halls, schools, or religious buildings.

Empowerment through knowledge: Digital fluency is linked to better financial independence, access to opportunities, and self-confidence.

🧑‍💻 Who Can Apply?

  • Women aged 18 and above
  • Must be a resident of Goa for 15+ years

Open to all educational and socioeconomic backgrounds

🏫 Where & How Will Training Be Conducted?

Training will be facilitated through:

  • Empanelled IT Knowledge Centres (ITKCs)
  • Common Service Centres (CSCs)
  • Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs)

Classes will be hosted in accessible locations such as schools, panchayat halls, or community spaces.

💸 Scheme Benefits & Financial Provisions

  • ₹500 per participant allocated to cover training program
    • 80% to training partner (CSC/ITKC)
    • 20% to ITG
  • ₹100 additional per person to CSCs/VLEs for sessions in public spaces (infrastructure support)

Three-year validity, with potential for renewal

💬 Government’s Vision

Rohan Khaunte, Minister for ITE&C, stated:

“This initiative supports Viksit Bharat 2047 and our goal of women-led development. By empowering women with digital skills, we open pathways to income generation, confidence, and active participation in the digital economy.”

🌐 Looking Ahead

The launch of the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana is part of Goa’s broader vision to become a digitally inclusive and economically equitable state. With strong government support and a clear implementation plan, this initiative is poised to transform the lives of thousands of women—one screen, one skill, and one empowered choice at a time.