Human Interest

Rtr. Manasi Sawant Wins Best Secretary Award in Goa Zone for Rotary Year 2024–25


Panaji, June 28, 2025:
In a proud moment for the Rotaract Club of Panjim, Rtr. Manasi Sawant has been honoured with the Best Secretary Award in the Goa Zone for the Rotary International Year 2024–25. The recognition comes as a testament to her unwavering commitment, administrative excellence, and dedication to service above self.

Serving as the Club Secretary for the Rotaract Club of Panjim during the year, Rtr. Manasi played a pivotal role in streamlining club operations, maintaining seamless communication, and upholding the highest standards of Rotaract documentation and reporting. Her meticulous approach, collaborative spirit, and attention to detail made her a vital force in the club’s successful functioning.


Throughout the Rotary year 2024–25, Rtr. Manasi’s efforts went beyond just managing minutes and communications. She took initiative in coordinating projects, supporting board members, and mentoring newer Rotaractors. Her dedication ensured that club records were accurate, timely, and in alignment with Rotary protocols—a key factor in the club maintaining its active and impactful presence within the zone.

Her proactive involvement in community service initiatives, fellowship activities, and district-level programs also added to her remarkable performance as a secretary.

The Best Secretary Award is presented annually to a secretary who has demonstrated excellence in administrative performance, timely reporting, member engagement, and overall contribution to the club’s growth. With this award, Rtr. Manasi joins a league of young leaders shaping the future of service and leadership in Goa.

Congratulations, Rtr. Manasi Sawant, on this well-deserved achievement!

Social

JCI Mapusa Crowned Champions of JCI India Zone XI MID CON 2025 for ‘Natrang: An Essence of Art and Passion


In a dazzling celebration of creativity, culture, and competitive spirit, JCI Mapusa emerged victorious at the JCI India Zone XI MID CON 2025, clinching the championship title for their outstanding performance in ‘Natrang: An Essence of Art and Passion’. The prestigious event was hosted by JCI Sanguem on June 22, 2025, at Sant Sohirobanath Government College, Virnoda, and brought together Junior Chamber International (JCI) chapters from across the zone.

‘Natrang’, a cultural showcase themed around the essence of art and passion, served as the perfect canvas for participants to express their talent through dance, drama, music, and visual art. JCI Mapusa stood out with their exceptional creativity, coordination, and presentation, captivating both judges and audiences alike.

From soulful performances to energetic expressions of heritage, the competition witnessed an incredible display of skill and teamwork. The event celebrated not just performance arts, but the dedication, leadership, and community spirit that define JCI’s mission to develop young active citizens.

Highlights of the Event:

  • Over 20 JCI chapters participated in various competitive and cultural categories
  • A panel of renowned judges from the fields of art, media, and performance evaluated the entries
  • The event saw an enthusiastic turnout of members, supporters, and guests from across Goa and neighboring regions
  • Workshops and networking sessions were also held to promote leadership and collaboration among JCI members

JCI Mapusa’s win is a testament to their hard work, unity, and passion for the arts, as well as their commitment to the JCI values of personal development and positive community impact.

The host chapter, JCI Sanguem, was widely appreciated for its seamless organization, warm hospitality, and dynamic execution of the event, which upheld the JCI legacy of excellence.

As the curtains close on this year’s MID CON, the energy and inspiration of ‘Natrang’ continues to echo through the JCI community, reigniting a shared commitment to empowering youth through art, leadership, and civic engagement.

Congratulations to JCI Mapusa – the Champions of MID CON 2025!

Human Interest

JCI Ponda Hosts Memorable Valedictory Ceremony of Speechcraft 2025


Celebrating Communication, Confidence & Leadership at Its Best

Ponda, Goa | May 2025 — JCI Ponda proudly hosted the Valedictory Ceremony of Speechcraft 2025, marking the culmination of a transformative journey in communication, leadership, and personal development. The event brought together aspiring speakers, mentors, and dignitaries to celebrate the incredible progress of participants who committed themselves to growth and self-expression through the powerful platform of Speechcraft.

The evening was elevated by the presence of Chief Guest Shri Advocate Narendra Sawaikar, whose words of wisdom and encouragement resonated deeply with both the participants and attendees. His address emphasized the importance of communication as a cornerstone of effective leadership and public engagement, inspiring many young minds in the audience.

A special note of appreciation was extended to the driving forces behind Speechcraft 2025:

  • Pilot Faculty: JFM Hitesh Giriya
  • Co-Pilot Faculties: JC Dattaram Bicholkar and JC Anju Desai

Their commitment to mentoring and nurturing the participants played a pivotal role in transforming nervous speakers into confident communicators.

The presence of Zone President JFD Shaba Gauns and Acting Chairman of Speechcraft, JC HGF Dr. Shilpa Raghava Silveria, further added prestige to the event. Their support and words of encouragement reaffirmed the role of JCI in fostering leadership and self-development among youth.

The true stars of the evening were the participants of Speechcraft 2025, who impressed with their command over speech, poise, and presence. A special congratulations to our top five standout participants:

  • JC Vadiraj
  • JC Juhi
  • JC Jijith
  • JC Khyati
  • JC Bhushan

In addition, accolades were awarded to Outstanding Performers who truly raised the bar with their impactful oration:

  • JC Ansh
  • JC Amit
  • JC Sahil

Each participant received recognition not just for their final performances, but for their personal journeys of improvement, confidence-building, and camaraderie throughout the course.

The success of Speechcraft 2025 was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the entire JCI Ponda team. From planning to execution, every element was meticulously crafted to provide a platform for growth and inspiration.

“This journey was not just about learning to speak — it was about finding your voice and learning to lead with it,” said JC Saikrishna Mandrekar, Chairman of Speechcraft 2025.

The event was ably supported by:

  • JFD Shaba Gauns, Zone President
  • JC Vadiraj Inamdar, President, JCI Ponda 2025
  • JFM Muskan Naik, Secretary & Project Director

The Speechcraft program, long considered a flagship initiative within the JCI ecosystem, once again proved its value in empowering individuals to overcome stage fright, express ideas effectively, and lead with confidence. With each passing year, JCI Ponda continues to nurture the next generation of changemakers through programs like these.

As the curtains fell on Speechcraft 2025, the message was clear — communication is not just a skill, it’s a superpower, and every participant left the hall empowered to use it.

Spotlight

Goa’s Vishal Namdev Phutanekar Receives Prestigious National Prerna Doot Award 2025


In a momentous occasion, Vishal Namdev Phutanekar, a dedicated National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteer from Goa, has been conferred with the esteemed National Prerna Doot Award 2024-25. This recognition marks a historic milestone, as Vishal is among the first two boys from Goa to receive this national honor.

A Journey of Dedication and Excellence in NSS
Vishal, a third-year (link unavailable) student at Dnyanprassarak Mandal’s College & Research Centre, Assagao, has demonstrated remarkable commitment to community service and national integration through his active participation in NSS. His impressive achievements include:

  • Representing Goa at the National Integration Camp (NIC) in Kerala (2022-23)
  • Receiving the Best NSS (Boy) Volunteer Award (2022-23) from DM’s College & Research Centre, Assagao
  • Attending the National Adventure Camp at Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh (2024)
  • Receiving the Best NSS Volunteer Award (2023-24) from DM’s College & Research Centre
  • Being honored with the National Excellence Award 2024 (Art & Culture Category) in New Delhi

Committed to Social Service
Vishal has been actively involved in various NSS-driven social initiatives, including:

  • Cleanliness drives
  • Paper bag distribution campaigns
  • Tree plantation drives
  • Blood donation camps

His contributions have made a significant impact on society, reflecting the true spirit of volunteerism and youth leadership.

A Proud Moment for Goa
Vishal’s achievements have brought immense pride to Goa and the NSS fraternity. His unwavering dedication to social service and national integration serves as an inspiration for young volunteers across the country.

This recognition underscores the vital role of NSS in shaping responsible and service-oriented youth, reinforcing the significance of selfless community work in nation-building.