E – Cell Installation Ceremony and My Story Interaction with Entrepreneurs

On the 25^th of January 2025, the Entrepreneurship Cell of Don Bosco College of Engineering, Fatorda, Goa held an installation ceremony to induct its new council, to lead the E – Cell during the 2025 – 2026 term. The event was graced by esteemed chief guests, Mrs. Fauzia Khan Farooqui and Mr. Girish Naik, who were warmly welcomed by the Principal, Dr. Neena Panandikar; the Director, Reverend Fr. Kinley D’Cruz and E-cell convenor, Prof. Amey Shet Tilve. The traditional lighting of the lamp followed, proceeded by a floral welcome.

The Principal addressed the gathering, welcoming the chief guests, faculty and students. She mentioned how the students themselves are the future of entrepreneurship and the E – Cell, and acquainted us with the schemes and facilities to aid in entrepreneurship at DBCE. Following this, Director, Reverend Fr. Kinley D’ Cruz shared words of encouragement, motivating and inspiring the students. The outgoing Chairman of the E-Cell, Mr. Josiah Fernandes presented a detailed report outlining the various activities and initiatives undertaken during his tenure. A video encompassing the achievements, milestones accomplished under his leadership was played, brilliantly conveying the ethos of the E-cell.

The newly elected council members were then formally introduced. Chairperson, Mr. Thushar Nair; Secretary, Mr. Narendra Naik; Treasurer, Reuel Luis; Executive members – Vedhant Sawant, Rushank Natekar, Ruturaj Patil and Ashley Fernandes.

Mr Thushar Nair presented a roadmap, outlining the vision and goals for the upcoming term, with a focus on sustainability and organizing events and trips to enhance entrepreneurial skills among students.

Mrs. Fauzia Farooqui, senior trainer, business coach, and Business Development Manager at BNI India, delivered an inspiring speech on entrepreneurship and mentoring. She shared valuable insights on overcoming challenges in the entrepreneurial journey and emphasized pushing past negativity to focus on the opportunities entrepreneurship offers. She encouraged students to pursue ideas they are passionate about, leverage available resources, and maintain confidence in their ventures. Highlighting the importance of personal fulfillment, she said, “Define success not by wealth, but by the amount of happiness — the rest follows,” a quote that resonated deeply with the audience.

A novel program, “My Story: Interaction with Entrepreneurs,” featured a dynamic Q&A session where Shrinivas Inamdar, former E-Cell Secretary, interviewed guest speakers. They shared insights on leadership, self-reliance, overcoming challenges, and strategies for success. Mr. Girish Naik, Proprietor of Rukmini Trading Company, highlighted the importance of word-of-mouth marketing and staying connected with customers. Mrs. Fauzia Farooqui emphasized carving one’s own path to success rather than following others’ expectations. Budding entrepreneurs in the audience also engaged, seeking advice for their ventures. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Secretary Narendra Naik, appreciating the guests, faculty, students, and organizers.

The installation ceremony of the E-Cell council for the 2025–2026 term was a grand success, marking the beginning of a fruitful year ahead. The event celebrated the achievements of the outgoing council and set the stage for the new face of the E- Cell, as they embark on their journey of innovation and leadership, the achievements of the previous council serving as a benchmark, to set higher standards and soar to new heights.