Goa Tycoon - OCTOBER ISSUE 2023

Editorial

Dear readers,

Welcome to the October issue of our Goa Tycoon e-magazine! This month's edition is filled with inspiring stories of talented individuals and innovative startups.

On our cover this month, we proudly feature Miss Nicole Suares, the founder of Content Life Media, a dynamic content studio based in Panjim, Goa. Read the feature inside to know more about Nicole's incredible journey, her various achievements, the amazing work that her company has done for clients in Goa, and her future aspirations.

This month's issue also shines a spotlight on two incredible startups - ure UURJA Naturals and 'Arista Vault'.

UURJA Naturals is a startup based in Navelim that offers an amazing range of yoga mats, skincare items, and various other products crafted from natural ingredients while 'Arista Vault' is an enterprise that manufactures wallets, bags, and luggage, equipped with intelligent features like antitheft systems, mobile charging, and RFID chips.

We also delve into the stories of 'Fur Loved', an enterprise based in Margao that specializes in healthy and delicious food and treats for cats and dogs, and ‘Vnya’, an allIndian brand based in Sangolda that offers a wide range of organic products.

Furthermore, we showcase the inspiring journey of freelance photographer Rodden D’Souza from Calangute who has done amazing photography work for several bigname clients from the fields of real estate, hospitality, and events. We also explore the story of 'Yarn and Needles', an enterprise run by UK-based Sarah Lobo. The enterprise specialises in creating a wide variety of toys and decorations using crochet techniques.

Earlier this month, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant announced that Goa will be hosting the prestigious India Energy Week 2024 event. Set to be held from the 6th to the 9th of February 2024, the event is poised to be a powerhouse of knowledge, innovation, and global collaboration. Around 35,000 individuals from across the globe, representing the vibrant energy, petroleum, and electric vehicles (EVs) sectors are expected to attend the event.

Also, the inaugural edition of the women entrepreneurship platform (WEP)-NITI Aayog state workshop series was held at the CSIRNational Institute of Oceanography (NIO) auditorium in Goa on 3rd October. The workshop, which was conducted in collaboration with the Goa government, saw over 500 enthusiastic women entrepreneurs participating. The event was a vibrant convergence of entrepreneurs, local self-help groups (SHGs), government officials, industry representatives, incubators/accelerators, and financial institutions who joined hands in a collective effort to drive change and innovation.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of Goa Tycoon. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next month, cheers!

Warm regards,

Jessyl Fernandez Editor

01 Content Life Media

02 Yarn and Needles

03 Vnya

04 Arista Vault

05 Fur Loved

06 Photographer Rodden D'Souza

07 Uurja Naturals

Introduction

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'Almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivalsCarnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blog-based website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Content Manager

Steve Antao

Sales & Marketing

Donald Fernandez

Graphics & Layout

Shashank Parab

Social Media Manager

Saviola Dias

For advertising queries: 9370502124 / 9209005127

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA

Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email : mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

Content Life Media, founded by the visionary Nicole Suares, embarked on its journey in 2019 with a singular mission: to breathe life into brands through creative storytelling. The company is a content-driven studio that blends the art of storytelling with the precision of SEO to deliver unparalleled results. From content writing and design to photography and research assistance, this innovative studio offers a diverse range of services. They don’t just create content; they craft experiences that resonate with audiences. Their expertise extends to production coordination for documentaries, brand communication, and digital marketing strategies, elevating businesses and personal brands alike.

The Creative Mind Behind the Magic

Nicole Suares, the driving force behind Content Life Media, is a seasoned writer and content marketing strategist with a passion for Goa’s rich culture and heritage. Her journey began in Mumbai, where her media career took flight. Yet, it was her love for Goa and a desire to infuse creativity into the business world that led her back home to Goa to establish Content Life Media.

Her Work in Goa

In Goa, Nicole utilized her media experience to launch magazines like Timeline Goa. She has also worked with top brands from Goa, including Goa Tourism, Times of India, Navhind Times, Planet Goa, Aguad, and many more. She also writes extensively about the culture and heritage of Goa in Gomantak Times and the Free Press Journal in Mumbai. She also shares her love for Goa's history, food, and culture on her Instagram page (@tlc_missnic_goa).

Awards Received

Nicole was recently honoured by the Lions Club of Margao Central (317-B) for her work in the field of media. Also, her photo stories have received numerous awards like third place at the All Goa Photo Contest 2022 and have been published in various media outlets.

A Vision Realized

At the heart of Content Life Media is a profound belief in the power of storytelling. For Nicole, every individual and every business is a unique chapter in the book of life, waiting to be shared. This belief fueled her entrepreneurial spirit, driving her to establish a space where brands could find their voice and connect meaningfully with their audience.

Nicole Suares, Founder, Content Life Media

Catering to Diverse Horizons

Over the course of its 3 year long journey, Content Life Media has catered to clients from industries such as travel and hospitality, food and beverage, entertainment, and media. They have provided curated features for media brands like Navhind Times, and Planet Goa, and travel and tourism clients like Goa Tourism, Sarovar Portico Suites, Lazy Lagoon, and Bay 15. They have also served as the local PR agency for events such as the first World Konkani Music Awards 2020, Mr. Supranational Goa Tour 2019, IFFI 2019, and others.

Beyond Borders

Content Life Media’s influence extends far beyond the sandy shores of Goa. With clients from Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Hyderabad, the comapny has proven its mettle in providing top-notch PR and content

writing services to businesses both in India and overseas.

Navigating Challenges

Like any entrepreneurial venture, Content Life Media has faced its fair share of challenges. For Nicole, transitioning from a non-business background required a combination of learning, adaptation, and resilience. Learning about business strategies, social media tools, and staying updated with the latest trends became essential.

Sources of Support

However, Nicole’s journey was made smoother with the support of friends and fellow business owners who provided her with advice and referrals. Friends like Smitha Gopi, Parvish Andani Kamat, Vinette D’Souza, and Ashton D’Souza played a crucial role in the enterprise's initial growth.

Nicole Suares being felicitated by Lions Club of Margao Central

Words of Wisdom

To aspiring entrepreneurs, Nicole shares her pearls of wisdom. She emphasizes the importance of discovering one's purpose, understanding that setbacks are part of the journey, and continuous learning is the key to staying ahead. Taking breaks, she believes, is not a sign of weakness but a strategy for sustainable growth and contentment.

In conclusion, Content Life Media stands as a testament to the power of passion, storytelling, and unwavering determination. Through their creative prowess, they have transformed businesses into stories, and stories into legacies. As they continue their odyssey, one thing remains certain – in the world of Content Life Media, every word is not just a string of characters; it's a brushstroke on the canvas of a brand's identity, painting a picture of success and connection.

Nicole being awarded by Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant with the third prize award at the Goa State Photo Contest and Exhibition 2022

home enterprise

Yarn and Needles

Founded in 2020 by Sarah Lobo, ‘Yarn and Needles’ is an enterprise which offers an amazing range of crochet toys, decorations and other products.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: Sarah Lobo

www.itsgoa.com

Founded in 2020 by UK-based Sarah Lobo, Yarn and Needles is a successful enterprise that offers a diverse range of handcrafted items. The enterprise is the result of an amazing journey that Sarah embarked upon during the lockdown period. The various items offered by this enterprise include crotchet toys and decorations.

Founder’s Profile

A native of the beautiful village of Bodiem, Sirsaim in North Goa, Sarah pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from DMC College, Assagao. She also completed a diploma course in Veterinary Nursing from a reputed institution in the UK. Prior to starting Yarn and Needles, Sarah worked as a Marketing Executive for various companies in Goa.

Moving To The United Kingdom

After her uncle who was based in the UK passed away in 2017. Sarah moved to the UK for 6 months to be with her Aunt Margaret Lobo who was now all alone. However, due to the pandemic and the subsequent suspension of flights globally, Sarah had to extend her stay in the UK with her aunt.

During this time, when travel restrictions and isolation prevented her from pursuing her job, Sarah's aunt, Eleanor, introduced her to the art of crocheting. Little did she know that this newfound hobby would become a source of comfort and a catalyst for her entrepreneurial spirit.

The process of learning to crochet not only helped Sarah cope with the challenges of isolation but also revealed a hidden talent. She discovered a remarkable ability to create unique designs and intricate patterns, a talent that would soon captivate the hearts of many.

Crochet Christmas ornaments for Christmas tree

Sarah Lobo, Proprietor, Yarn and Needles

The Birth of Yarn and Needle

As Sarah honed her crochet skills, she began crafting a variety of handmade items, including teddy bears, dolls, and animals. With Christmas on the horizon, she delved into creating packages of Christmas tree decorations, each intricately designed and imbued with her passion. Encouraged by her family, Sarah decided to share her creations with a wider audience by setting up an Instagram page under the name 'yarn_and_.needles.'

Her decision to showcase her work online marked the beginning of Yarn and Needle as an enterprise. Through her Instagram page, Sarah aimed to inspire and uplift others during the difficult times brought about by the pandemic.

A Journey of Success

The response to Yarn and Needle's creations was nothing short of phenomenal. Sarah's work garnered admiration and praise from customers not only in the UK but also in India. The support and encouragement from satisfied customers fueled her passion and drove her to further excel in her craft.

Unlike many entrepreneurs, Sarah's enterprise grew primarily through personal recommendations and word of mouth. She continues to receive a good number of orders for her products and does not need to participate in pop-up markets and fairs to sell her products.

Crotchet Toy Animals

Challenges and Triumphs

Starting her enterprise during the COVID-19 pandemic presented its share of challenges. The initial period was slow, but as the pandemic eased and the holiday season approached, orders began to pour in. Sarah's determination and resilience paid off as she navigated the uncertainties of launching a business during challenging times.

A Supportive Network

Sarah is grateful to her family for the unwavering support - both emotional as well  as practical, which they offered to her during her journey. Their encouragement has played a pivotal role in the success of her enterprise. Additionally, repeat customers who were deeply impressed by her work became advocates, spreading the word and contributing to the success of her enterprise.

The Way Forward

Looking ahead, Sarah has ambitious plans for her enterprise. She intends to keep expanding her crochet work, customizing her creations, and delighting her customers with new and innovative designs. While she currently caters to customers within her local network, she intends to start providing global shipping of orders.

Words of Wisdom

Sarah Lobo's journey from crochet enthusiast to successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one's passion. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: “Never quit, trust your ideas, find joy in serving others through your creativity, and dare to be different”.

You can catch a glimpse of the amazing work done by Sarah for clients on Instagram at : @yarn_and_.needles

Bright green crochet earrings

Jumbo multi-coloured crochet cat

Beautiful Red Drop crochet earrings

Sarah Lobo, Proprietor, Yarn and Needles

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Vnya Organics

Vnya is a unique organic, zero-waste, all-Indian food brand committed to healthy, sustainable, and socially-friendly living. It was founded in March 2020 by an entrepreneur named Supriya Sarin who embarked on a mission to revolutionize the way India approached food production and consumption. The enterprise, which has operations in Mumbai and Goa, is dedicated to creating a waste-less world while promoting clean eating and zero-waste living.

A Revolution in Agriculture

Vnya's journey began with a resolute commitment to changing the way we consume and produce food. Supriya set out to address the pressing issues of resource depletion, pollution, and waste caused by overconsumption. By changing values and behaviours and making systemic changes in how products are made, distributed, and used, Vnya is promoting a more sustainable and responsible way of using and reusing resources.

A Product Range Like No Other

Vnya offers a diverse range of natural and wholesome products, all meticulously curated to ensure a clean and waste-free supply chain. Many of these items are handmade by Supriya's mother, following her grandmother's cherished recipes. Ingredients are sourced directly from producers who employ eco-friendly methods like water mills and hand chakkis to reduce waste and conserve energy.

Vnya’s amazing product lineup includes organic heirloom rice, wheat, Pahadi pulses, regional spices, fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade pickles, masalas, and refreshing beverages like Buransh and Malta squash. Vnya also provides hand-rolled Santushti dhoop (incense), essential oils, and superfoods that are both nutritious and environmentally conscious. These offerings reflect the brand's commitment to quality and sustainability.

The Vnya store at Paperboat Collective, Sangolda, Goa

A Founder with a Vision

Supriya Sarin, the driving force behind Vnya, hails from Agra. However, she was raised in Mumbai. She pursued Mass Communication at Sophia College and began her professional journey at the age of 19. After interning at a film production house during her college days, she went on to work as an assistant director at the prestigious advertising production house, AD FILM VALAS. In 2016, she founded "The Wired Society," her own production company, before venturing into the world of clean eating and zero-waste living with Vnya in 2020.

The Goa Connection

In April 2021, Supriya came to Goa for a shoot and decided to make it her permanent home. She had always felt a deep connection with Goa's sense of community and its commitment to sustainable living. This decision brought Vnya's unique approach to clean eating and zero-waste living to the eco-conscious community in Goa.

Supriya at the Vnya store (Image: @thegoodgoanbusiness)

Supriya Sarin, Founder, Vnya (Image Credit: @thegoodgoanbusiness)

A Mixed Response and Steady Growth

When Vnya first launched, it encountered a mixed response from the public. Some embraced the concept of clean food and zero-waste retail with enthusiasm, while others were initially hesitant. Over time, as Vnya established its presence and demonstrated its unwavering commitment to sustainability, public perception shifted positively, and a growing customer base emerged.

Clients Who Share the Vision

Vnya's major clients include individuals who prioritize environmental sustainability and their own wellbeing. Their key demographic consists of ecoconscious consumers, health-conscious individuals, environmentally responsible families, and those who appreciate the superior quality and flavour of clean, chemical-free foods.

Overcoming Challenges and Future Plans

Supriya's transition from a different professional background to creating a clean food company with a zero-waste retail concept posed inherent challenges.

However, her commitment and determination have allowed Vnya to overcome these obstacles and establish a sustainable and eco-friendly supply chain. The goal now is to create a wastefree grocery and lifestyle brand with a chain of stores across India.

A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Supriya's journey with Vnya offers valuable lessons to aspiring entrepreneurs in Goa and beyond. Supriya urges people to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their endeavours to align with global trends and connect with the environmentally conscious community. She also advises entrepreneurs to plan their entrepreneurial  journey with clear goals and thoughtful strategies.

In a world where sustainability and responsible living are more important than ever, Vnya stands as a shining example of how one entrepreneur's vision can lead to a brighter, greener future for us all.

Desi Ghee

For more information about Vnya and the various products offered by them:

Call/WhatsApp: 8433554497.

Website:  www.vnya.in

You can also follow Vnya on social media:

Instagram @Vnya.in

Facebook: @Vnya

Different varieties of organic squash by

Vnya

smart luggage

Arista Vault

Founded in 2017 by Purvi Roy, Colonel (Retd.) K. K. Singh and Atul Gupta, Arista Vault is a startup that offers a range of smart wallets, smart luggage, and smart keychains.

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Arista Vault

In the fast-paced world we live in today, the loss or theft of important belongings is an all too common occurrence. Every day, thousands of bags and mobile phones go missing, leaving people frustrated and worried about their valuable possessions. However, one innovative startup, Arista Vault, has set out to change this narrative by merging technology and fashion to create a range of smart luggage and accessories that prioritize safety and convenience.

Founding Inspiration

The story of Arista Vault began in 2017, when fashion designer Purvi Roy organized a show called "Warriors Alley," which celebrated the modern working woman. In the audience that day was Colonel K. K. Singh, a retired Indian Army officer, who was deeply moved by the theme of the event. After the show, the two met and their conversation quickly turned to the topic of women's safety. They both shared a desire to do something meaningful in this area.

Adding to this dynamic trio was Atul Gupta, a finance professional who had recently lost his wallet in the metro. This incident, along with the shared concern for women's safety, led to the birth of Arista Vault.

Innovative Products for a Safer World

Arista Vault is not your ordinary luggage and accessories brand. The company offers a range of smart products that blend cutting-edge technology with stylish design to make life simpler, easier, and, most importantly, safer. Their product lineup includes smart wallets, smart luggage, smart laptop bags, smart trolleys, smart office bags, smart keychains, and Spectrack. These items are infused with patented technology and engineered materials designed to prevent loss and theft. Some of the standout features of their products include anti-loss and anti-theft functionalities, location tracking for lost items, wallet-calling features, airport prompts, and even mobile charging capabilities compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

Purvi Roy and Atul Gupta, Co-Founders, Arista Vault

A First Mover Advantage

Arista Vault has positioned itself as India's first smart luggage brand, giving customers the assurance that they will never lose their belongings again. With a rapidly growing customer base of over 2 lakh users and a turnover exceeding INR 6 crore, the company has already achieved profitability. Looking ahead, their ambitious goal is to reach INR 100 crore in revenue within the next two years. Furthermore, Arista Vault's dedication to innovation has led to the acquisition of six patents, demonstrating their commitment to staying at the forefront of their industry.

Arista Vault has not only garnered public interest but also received support from the Indian government. The Ministry of Electronics and IT, Government of India, has been a key partner in helping the company develop their innovative antitheft and anti-loss products.

Mobile charging feature in a Smart Wallet by Arista Vault

Smart Keychains by Arista Vault

Collaborations and Future Plans

Recently, Arista Vault collaborated with renowned Indian cricketer Ishant Sharma, signing a two-year deal with him. This partnership further solidifies their position in the market and their commitment to expanding their reach.

In addition to their current offerings, Arista Vault has launched the FingerLock series, a groundbreaking product in India and the world. With a strong focus on smart luggage, their future plans include scaling up their brand to reach INR 100 crore in the next two years and establishing a significant presence in international markets.

A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The founders of Arista Vault say that the journey of an entrepreneur is filled with challenges and opportunities, where passion, determination, and innovation serve as guiding lights. They advise aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace failures as stepping stones to success, and surround themselves with mentors, fellow entrepreneurs, and a supportive community.

In conclusion, Arista Vault is an example of what can happen when innovation meets purpose. Their commitment to safety, convenience, and style has resonated with customers and partners alike, propelling them towards a bright and ambitious future. As they continue to redefine the world of luggage and accessories, Arista Vault stands as a shining example of what's possible in the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship.

Connect with Arista Vault

For those eager to explore the world of Arista Vault and its innovative offerings, you can connect with the through

Website: https: aristavault.co

LinkedIn: Arista Vault on LinkedI

YouTube: Arista Vault on YouTub

Instagra : Arista Vault on Instagra

Facebook: Arista Vault on Facebook

Purvi Roy (left) and Atul Gupta (right) with cricketer Ishant Sharma (Image Credit: IssueWire)

smart laptop Bag By arista vault

Steve Antao

In the sunny paradise of Goa, where the sea meets the sand and relaxation is a way of life, a heartwarming venture was born in 2023. FurLoved, an enterprise deeply rooted in a passion for pets, has set out to enhance the quality of life for our beloved four-legged companions. Founded by the dynamic duo of Rubana Kakodker and Ritika Mohanty, FurLoved is more than just a business; it's a heartfelt commitment to pampering pets with love and care.

A Vision That Cares

The two main aims of Fur Loved are:

1. to provide pets with the love they deserve.

2.to offer pet owners healthier food options for their pets which can help in maximising their lifespan.

Rubana Kakodker, the founder of Furloved, is an artist and entrepreneur who channels her creativity into crafting premium dog treats and accessories. Inspired by her daughter's compassion for street animals, Rubana is on a mission to improve the lives of pets and nurture the bond between pets and their owners.

Ritika Mohanty, the co-founder, is a former corporate professional who left behind a 12-year long career to follow her passion for pets. Her beloved pets, Kai and Mumble, serve as daily inspiration for her mission to provide natural and healthy pet treats. Ritika firmly believes that pets make us better people, and FurLoved is her way of creating a happier, healthier world for pets and their owners.

A Range of Amazing Products

Fur Loved specializes in crafting preservative-free, healthy dog treats made from all-natural, humangrade ingredients. Every treat is meticulously concocted to ensure that pets receive the utmost care and nutrition. The founders' dedication to pets' well-being is evident in every product they offer.

But Fur Loved doesn't stop at treats. They also offer a range of adorable and functional dog accessories, including travel bowls, feed bowls, and lick mats. Soon, they will introduce a fashion collection for dogs of all sizes, inspired by various Indian festivals and occasions, to enhance the bond between pets and their owners with both care and style.

Rubana Kakodker, Founder, FurLoved

Ritika Mohanty, Co-Founder, FurLoved

The Heartwarming Response

From the very beginning, Fur Loved received an overwhelmingly positive response from the public. Pet owners and animal lovers welcomed their natural, healthy pet treats with enthusiasm. The brand quickly gained trust as a go-to source for quality pet products. FurLoved's presence expanded to numerous pet retail stores in Goa, and their online platform, www.furloved.com, allows them to serve fur families across India. The response has been heartwarming and continues to grow.

FurLoved's Major Clients

FurLoved's major clients include pet owners and enthusiasts who prioritize their pets' well-being and trust FurLoved for natural, healthy pet treats and adorable accessories. They cater to fur families across India, ensuring that pets everywhere receive the love and care they deserve.

Challenges Faced

Like any entrepreneurial journey, setting up FurLoved came with its share of challenges. Sourcing high-quality, natural ingredients and establishing a strong brand presence in a competitive market were initial hurdles. However, Rubana and Ritika’s unwavering dedication to pets and their well-being kept them motivated.

Future Plans

Rubana and Ritika have exciting plans for FurLoved. They aim to expand their product range, introducing innovative pet care solutions. Their upcoming fashion collection for dogs inspired by Indian festivals promises to be a delightful addition. Their goal is clear: to continue serving fur families with love, making their pets' lives healthier and happier.

Peanut Butter with honey for Pets

A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Goa

To aspiring entrepreneurs in Goa, Rubana and Ritika share the following piece of advice: “Pursue your passion relentlessly. Focus on delivering value and quality to your customers. Embrace challenges as opportunities in disguise, and remember that perseverance is key to success. Most importantly, never lose sight of your core values and the impact you want to create. Goa's entrepreneurial spirit is vibrant; embrace it and make your mark!”

In a world where pets bring boundless joy and companionship, Fur Loved stands as a beacon of love and care for our furry friends, enriching the lives of pets and their owners one wholesome treat at a time.

Leash for cats and dogs

For more information about FurLoved and their various products, contact Mrs. Rubana Kakodkar on:

Phone: +91 70202 51818

Email: hello@furloved.co

Website: www.furloved.co

Instagram: @furlovedcompany

2 -in-1 Pet Travel Bowl & Drinking Bottle

Photographer

Article by: Team ItsGoa

In the vibrant state of Goa, where beauty and culture collide, we find individuals who have made it their mission to capture its essence through their art. One such individual is Rodden D'Souza, a 45year-old photographer born and raised in the picturesque town of Calangute. With an Advanced Diploma in computers and a passion for music, Rodden's journey into the world of photography is an inspiring tale of discovery and dedication.

A Late Bloomer

Unlike some who discover their love for photography at a young age, Rodden's journey into this creative field came later in life.

He confesses, "I never knew about photography as a kid. I was into art at a young age, but I was exposed to photography much later in life." It was Rodden's career as a graphic designer that led him down the path of photography.

Rodden D’Souza

Architecture photography done by Rodden D’Souza

photography done by Rodden D’Souza For a concert of singer Remo Fernandes

Discovering the Passion

Rodden's transition into full-time photography began when he worked for GoaHolidayHomes.com, a company based in Calangute. As the company required a photographer, Rodden decided to take a basic photography course with ace photographer Prasad Pankar from Mapusa. He immediately fell in love with the art and hasn't looked back since. His initial assignments involved capturing hotels, and villas, and the rich tapestry of Goa's landscapes, including beaches, waterfalls, and markets.

Rodden's learning journey was unique in that he didn't have a mentor; he learned most of what he knows through self-study and hands-on experience.

The Birth of a Photography Business

Eight years ago, Rodden ventured into interior photography, eventually making it his niche. Based in Calangute, he has since established himself as a prominent figure in this specialized field. His portfolio includes work for clients such as "Villa Calangute" and "SeaShell Builders," among many others.

Fashion photography done by Rodden D’Souza

event photography done by Rodden D’Souza

Challenges in the Niche Market

One of the biggest challenges Rodden faces in his niche market is securing contracts. Interior and architectural photography requires a keen eye for detail and an understanding of how to capture spaces beautifully. This specialization demands a unique skill set, which can make it more challenging to find clients.

Role Models and Inspirations

Rodden's journey has been shaped by his admiration for ace photographer Prasad Pankar. Prasad’s enthusiasm and outlook on life left a lasting impact on Rodden. Internationally, Rodden draws inspiration from renowned interior photographers like Serge Ramelli and Karl Taylor.

Future Plans

As for the future, Rodden aims to work with bigger clients from different industrial fields in Goa and provide them with his photography services. He also contemplates getting into the line of teaching photography someday.

Words of Wisdom for Goan Youth

Rodden's advice for young Goans aspiring to become photographers is simple yet profound. He echoes Prasad Pankar's words: " ou've got to love what you do." The photography journey can be demanding, but passion fuels the creative spirit. Additionally, he is cautious that photography and videography can be expensive careers due to the constant evolution of technology, advising prospective photographers to consider this factor seriously.

Connect with Rodden D'Souz

WhatsApp: 098506 9 62

Website: www.roddendsouza.com

Flickr: Rodden D'Souza on Flickr

event photography done by Rodden D’Souza

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: uurja naturals

UURJA Naturals

In the serene coastal state of Goa, where the sea meets lush forests rich in ayurvedic herbs and plants, Kapha Ventures LLP was born in September 2021 with a vision to promote sustainable yoga products globally. Under the brand name UURJA Naturals, this startup embarked on a journey to bring the natural essence of Goa to yoga enthusiasts worldwide.

A Vision of Sustainability

UURJA Naturals' product line reflects its commitment to sustainability and natural wellness. Their offerings include 100% natural skincare formulations infused with exotic essential oils sourced from around the world. These formulations are carefully blended with fractionated coconut oil, renowned for its purity and skin-friendly properties. However, the jewel in their product crown is their yoga mats. Crafted from cork imported from Portugal and rubber from Kerala, these mats are designed for durability and grip, ensuring they last for over three years. Complementing these mats are yoga accessories like blocks, rollers, and massage balls, all fashioned from compressed cork, a 100% natural material

The Minds Behind the Venture

The founders of Kapha Ventures LLP are native Goans, deeply rooted in their love for Goa and yoga. Sudarshan Borkar, the founder and CEO, brings over 17 years of sales and marketing experience, including roles in technology startups and innovative solutions development. Greame Fernandes, the partner, is a fresh graduate in Electronics engineering with experience interning at Siemens and working with a US-based SaaS company, ConnectWise. Together, they are the driving force behind this venture.

The Spark of Inspiration

What inspired this entrepreneurial journey?

Goa's rising prominence, both nationally and internationally, coupled with its reputation as the global hub for ayurveda, played a significant role in shaping the vision of Kapha Ventures. The founders aspired to create sustainable products that addressed users' needs while celebrating Goa's unique charm, encapsulated in their tagline, "Made in Goa, with lots of love."

UURJA’s sustainable yoga mat and props made using cork.

“UURJA”: The Energy Within

The name UURJA stems from the Sanskrit word for invigorating and refreshing energy, symbolizing the force that inspires positive growth. In a yoga market often driven by marketing budgets and paid influencers, UURJA stands as a beacon of authenticity, creating products that customers trust and vouch for.

Early Challenges and Triumphs

Like any startup, Kapha Ventures faced its share of challenges in the early days. They had to operate without sales for nearly six months, learning and adapting to customer preferences. However, their high-quality products found support among yoga practitioners, starting with collaborations with yoga studios like DeepBreathe Yoga Studio in Margao and gradually expanding to yoga retreats and retail stores.

A Growing Clientele

Today, UURJA Naturals products are available through various channels, including their website, Amazon, YouCare by Luke Coutinho, Saukhyam, and PaperBoat Collective. They also create customized products for emerging brands in India and have recently initiated international exports to the US and UAE, marking a significant milestone in their journey.

The Role of FiIRE

Kapha Ventures acknowledges the pivotal role played by FiIRE (Forum for Innovation, Incubation Research and Entrepreneurship), which has supported their journey by providing opportunities to showcase their products to government and private entities. Additionally, they received crucial debt funding through FIIRE, facilitating their initial investment in inventory and fueling their growth.

(L) Graeme Fernandes and Sudarshan Borkar (R), the founders of UURJA Naturals

The Future Beckons

The future looks promising for Kapha Ventures and UURJA Naturals. Their focus is on increasing monthly revenues and expanding their product range to encompass yoga clothing made from natural fibres like lotus, banana, and hemp. They also plan to introduce FMCG products, such as health mixes made from millets and ayurvedic teas for immunity. A new endeavour includes opening a yoga space in Benaulim, providing a platform for yoga teachers to conduct classes and fostering the growth of the local yoga community.

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those aspiring to embark on an entrepreneurial journey in Goa, Sudarshan Borkar o ers this advice: "Goa is the right place for any entrepreneur who wants to set up a business, big or small. Just start with persistence and innovation. The growth is guaranteed, but the pace is not. That will come with your resilience", he says.

Kapha Ventures LLP and UURJA Naturals are not just creating sustainable yoga products; they are crafting a future where nature and wellness harmonize with the practice of yoga. With their commitment to authenticity and sustainability, they are lighting the path for a brighter, more conscious world of yoga.

For more inforamtion about UURJA Naturals, connect with them through

Phone: +91 991611627

Website: www.uurja-naturals.co

Instagram: @uurja.natural

Email: uurja.naturals@gmail.com