The Department of Commerce, in collaboration with the Carmel College Institutional Innovation Council (CIInC) and the Entrepreneurship and Start-Up Development Cell, Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem–Goa, successfully organized a panel discussion on “Goa’s WomenPreneurs: Inspiring, Enabling & Empowering the Next Generation” on 30 September 2026 at the Carmel College Auditorium. 197 students attended the panel discussion
The inaugural session was graced by Ms. Pratima Dhond, President of GCCI, who addressed the gathering and shared valuable insights on supporting and encouraging women entrepreneurs.
The panel discussion was moderated by Mr. Blaise Costabir, Managing Director, GMI Zarhak Moulders Pvt. Ltd., and featured an engaging panel comprising:
🔹 CA Ganpat Ratnakar Kapdi, Chief Financial Officer, Schiffer & Menezes Pvt. Ltd., Verna, Goa & Treasurer, Verna Industrial Association
🔹 Mrs. Deepali Dilip Naik, Director, Department of Rural Development, Government of Goa
🔹 Ms. Cecille Lee Rodrigues, Co-founder, Encore Academy of Performing Arts
🔹 Ms. Maria Victor, Founder & CEO, Make-It-Happen
🔹 Dr. Maria Carina Cordeiro, Assistant Professor & In-Charge, Postgraduate Department of Food Technology & Founder and Director, Goan Pharma Pvt. Ltd.