Tag: youth empowerment

EduConnect

Don Bosco College, Panjim Hosts ‘Psyrenity’ – A Celebration of Mental Health Awareness

Tanisha Cardozo

The B.A. Department of Psychology at Don Bosco College, Panjim, organized “Psyrenity – A Celebration of Mental Health Awareness” on October 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The festival served as a platform to promote positivity, self-expression, and emotional well-being through an engaging blend of creative stalls, games, and interactive experiences that encouraged reflection on mental health.

The event featured several unique and thought-provoking activities, including “Pop Your Insecurities,” where participants symbolically released their self-doubts; “Compliment Booth,” which spread smiles through kind words; “Knock Out the Negativity,” a fun stress-relief game; and “Express to Destress,” a space for artistic and emotional expression. One of the highlights of the day was the special fundraising canteen titled “Mood Foods,” themed around the link between food and emotions — blending nourishment with awareness.

The festival was organized under the guidance of Director Fr. Kinley D’Cruz, Principal Dr. Cedric Silveira, and Dr. Vijay Viegas, Head of the Department of Psychology, along with Ms. Grebian Alemao (College Counsellor), Ms. Nerissa Zuzarte (Faculty Coordinator), and Assistant Professors Ms. Andrea D’Souza and Ms. Tabitha Nunes. Students from all three years of the B.A. Psychology program worked with great enthusiasm to design and host the stalls, ensuring every visitor left inspired and smiling.

Psyrenity witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty across various departments, creating a campus-wide spirit of positivity and unity. The event served as a gentle reminder that mental health matters — and that small acts of kindness, understanding, and self-care can have a powerful ripple effect.

With its creative and compassionate approach, Psyrenity reflected Don Bosco College’s ongoing commitment to promoting holistic well-being, empathy, and emotional growth within its academic community. The celebration concluded with laughter, reflection, and a renewed awareness that nurturing mental health is a joyful and collective responsibility.

Spotlight

Asia’h Melody Blake: From North London Teen to Runway Star

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Asia’h Melody Blake is not your average 17-year-old. Born in North London and rooted in the vibrant cultures of Anguilla, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Jamaica, she is a teen model making bold waves in the UK fashion scene and beyond.

In October 2024, a conversation with her youth worker — a former model herself — led to a golden opportunity. A spot had unexpectedly opened up in Inspiring Edge, a local charity fashion competition founded by her youth worker’s sisters. Asia’h jumped at the chance, despite having no formal experience and being the youngest contestant. She quickly found herself training alongside seasoned, signed models — and the journey began.

Under the guidance of mentors Lana, Hailey, and Reuben, she spent two intense months in rehearsal. Outside of official sessions, she would practice for hours at home, studying professional walks and refining her technique.

November 2024 arrived, and with it, the moment that would redefine her future. Performing in front of an audience that included pageant queens and celebrities like Alesha Dixon, Asia’h’s presence lit up the stage. When her name was announced as Inspiring Edge Best Female Model 24-25, the roar of the crowd marked the beginning of something much bigger than a title — it was the rebirth of a dream.

Her modeling career took off from there.

Despite a severe setback just months later — a two-week hospital stay due to a brain infection and viral meningitis — she defied the odds and won Miss Model Queen UK 25-26. The experience reminded her that strength isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, spiritual, and mental.

Since stepping into the spotlight, Asia’h has walked in London Fashion Week, modeled for acclaimed designers, and been invited to major networking events across the capital. Her distinctive signature — adorning her hair with shimmering gems — has become a standout runway look, rooted in a personal expression of empowerment and individuality.

Among her icons, she cites Adriana Lima, Naomi Campbell, Shalom Harlow, and most importantly, “Dee” — the youth worker who helped ignite her journey.

Her aspirations are clear:

  • Sign to a major modeling agency
  • Walk at top fashion weeks (LFW x3, AFW, PFW x2, MFW x2, and Miami Swim Week)
  • Book advertising campaigns and music videos
  • Launch her own modeling class for teens
  • Shoot for a major global brand
  • Become one of the youngest Victoria’s Secret Angels

But modeling isn’t the only dream she holds close. “Beyond modeling, I’d love to explore acting — I’ve always been told I’m a natural drama queen!” she laughs. She also hopes to revisit ballet, a discipline she fell in love with as a child.

If she could walk the runway to one song? “Only Girl” by Rihanna — her personal power anthem and the soundtrack to her confidence. And if she launched a fashion label of her own, it would be called MIM — Melody in Motion. For Asia’h, fashion is about more than beauty — it’s about movement, purpose, and inspiring others to unlock their fullest potential.

If her life were a magazine cover, it would be titled “I’m Just a Girl from North London”, she says. “That’s where my journey began — but I’ve learned that where you start doesn’t define where you’ll go.”

That grounded mindset extends far beyond fashion. Asia’h is a dedicated member of the Youth Advisory Board for the Adolescents Initiative, where she works with policymakers to tackle youth issues like knife crime and shares her experiences with Members of Parliament. Her activism, like her modeling, is rooted in a desire to uplift her community and represent voices too often left unheard.

Asia’h Melody Blake is more than just a name to remember — she’s a movement in motion. Or as she would say: Melody in Motion.

EduConnect

Igniting Minds & Values: An Inspiring Session at Shreemant Kshatrajagatguru Residential High School, Mathagaon

Tanisha Cardozo

It was a truly inspiring experience at Shreemant Kshatrajagatguru Residential High School, Mathagaon (Bhudargad, Kolhapur) — a place where discipline, vision, and youthful potential converge.

The interactive sessions were thoughtfully designed to empower students with two key pillars: Life Values & Self-Belief, and Cyber Awareness. In today’s rapidly evolving world, the ability to stay grounded in values while navigating the digital space responsibly is essential.

Students responded with enthusiasm, intelligence, and maturity, demonstrating why institutions like this one are vital in shaping the future of our nation. Their energy was matched by their focus, and their questions reflected genuine curiosity and commitment to growth.

A heartfelt thank you to Shri Manjeet Benadikar (Dada), Headmaster Shri Y. K. Patil, and the entire staff for the warm welcome and their tireless dedication to student development. Their efforts are clearly reflected in the high levels of discipline and integrity seen in every corner of the school.

A special highlight of the visit was meeting the NCC Cadets, who impressed with their remarkable discipline, leadership spirit, and patriotic zeal. Their presence stood as a powerful reminder of the values that build a resilient and responsible generation.

The day concluded with a deep sense of purpose — that together, through awareness, discipline, and belief in self, we can build a smarter, safer, and stronger future for the next generation.

Social

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates Sesa Goa-Sponsored Artificial Turf Ground at Amona

Tanisha Cardozo

In a significant step towards youth empowerment and grassroots sports development, Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, inaugurated a state-of-the-art artificial turf ground in Amona. The ground has been constructed by Vedanta Sesa Goa – Value Added Business, under its flagship YouTheChange, YouThePower initiative, with a project cost exceeding ₹1 crore.

Equipped with floodlights and a fenced playing arena, the facility promises to become a vibrant hub for community engagement, sports competitions, and youth development. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of Mr. Saptesh Sardesai, CEO of Vedanta VAB, Shri Gopal Surlakar, Zilla Panchayat Member (Pale), Shri Sagar Kamlakant Fadte, Sarpanch, V.P Amona, panchayat members, community leaders, and enthusiastic locals. The event culminated in a friendly football match where CM Dr. Pramod Sawant himself took to the field, encouraging youth to utilise the facility.

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Pramod Sawant lauded Vedanta’s commitment to community welfare. “The long-standing wish of Amona’s youth has now been fulfilled. I appreciate Vedanta’s consistent efforts in infrastructure and skill development. This facility will play a vital role in promoting fitness and sports culture in the region,” he said.

Mr. Saptesh Sardesai emphasized the importance of physical fitness and leadership among the youth. “This turf ground is more than just infrastructure. It’s an investment in the future of our youth — promoting teamwork, health, and active lifestyles.”

This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s Fit India Movement and showcases Vedanta’s philosophy of #TransformingCommunities through impactful CSR projects that bring long-term value and progress to local communities.

EduConnect

Virnora College Hosts Anti-Ragging Awareness Program with Keynote by Prof. Varsha Redkar

Tanisha Cardozo

Sant Sohirobanath Ambiye Government College of Arts and Commerce, located in Virnora, Pernem–Goa, organized a meaningful Anti-Ragging Awareness Program aimed at fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful campus culture. The session served as a powerful platform to engage students in understanding their role in eliminating ragging and promoting student welfare.

The keynote address was delivered by Asst. Prof. Varsha Redkar from V. M. Salgaocar College of Law, Miramar, who brought a legal perspective to the issue. She emphasized the seriousness of ragging under the law and the long-lasting impact it can have on victims. Her message to the students was not just about awareness, but about responsibility. “Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. If you witness ragging, speak up. Your voice can be the shield someone desperately needs,” she stated passionately, urging students to be vigilant allies rather than passive observers.

The program was effectively coordinated by Ms. Salima Haldankar and Ms. Manju Shetye, whose efforts ensured a smooth and engaging event. The initiative was well-received by students and staff alike, further demonstrating the institution’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a ragging-free environment and cultivating values of respect, empathy, and unity among students.