Being Goan - AUGUST ISSUE 2023

Volume 2

Issue 8

August 2023

COVER FEATURE

LUKE Coutinho

Integrative Lifestyle Expert, Luke Coutinho talks to ItsGoa about his journey from growing up as an ordinary Goan boy to becoming one of the biggest names in the wellness industry.

amira menurkar

A Goan Model based in Bahrain

nishita rivankar

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

priyanka chandalia

One of Goa’s most popular female DJs

Cover Image: Luke Coutinho

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the August issue of ItsGoa’s monthly e-magazine 'Being Goan!

As we dive into the heart of this vibrant month, we are delighted to present to you an edition brimming with inspiring stories of successful Goan individuals.

On our cover, we proudly feature Luke Coutinho, the renowned integrative lifestyle expert, who also happens to be a son of Goan soil. A native of the enchanting village of Thivim, Luke's journey from pursuing a degree in hotel management to becoming a world-renowned Integrated Wellness Coach is nothing short of inspiring. Know more about his journey and his passion for transforming lives through holistic well-being in the feature inside.

This month’s issue also features the stories of Nishita Rivankar and Prapti Tar - two prominent Goan women who have earned a lot of popularity as social media influencers.

We have also covered the story of Tanay and Vaibhavi Lawande, the young Goan couple behind the celebrated food blog, GobbleTales. Discover how this young duo ventured into the world of food blogging, the various people who supported them during their journey, and the plans they have for the future as food bloggers.

We have also shone a spotlight on Priyanka Chandalia, a talented female DJ from Panjim, and on Amira Menurkar, a successful Goan model who has made waves in the world of fashion and blogging in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

As August dawns upon us, the spirit of celebration fills the air in the picturesque state of Goa. This month brings two significant events that exemplify the essence of being GoanWorld Goa Day and the Bonderam Flag Festival

Goans across the world celebrate World Goa Day on the 20th of August. The day commemorates the inclusion of Konkani, the official language of Goa, into the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution in 1992. It is marked by various festivities that reflect the essence of our vibrant culture. From delectable Goan cuisine to mesmerizing cultural programs and soulful music, the celebrations mirror the true spirit of Goa.

The Bonderam Flag Festival, held annually on the Divar Island of Goa, is a cultural extravaganza that takes place on the fourth Saturday of August. This colorful and vibrant festival commemorates a historic dispute between two wards of the Divar Island over property boundaries. Today, it stands as a symbol of unity and camaraderie among the Goan communities.

These two joyous occasions unite Goans from all around the world, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in our unique heritage.

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

Until next month, cheers!

Jessyl Fernandez Editor

Index

01 Luke Coutinho

02 Nishita Rivankar

03 Amira Menukar

04 Prapti Tar

05 Priyanka Chandalia

06 Gobbletales

07 The Perils of Social Media

Introduction

Editorial Team

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

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 festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, 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, UK, USA, etc. www.itsgoa.com

Luke Coutinho, a renowned Integrative Lifestyle Expert, has made a significant impact in the field of healthcare with his innovative approach to wellbeing. Born and raised in the picturesque state of Goa, Coutinho's journey to becoming an integrative lifestyle expert has been nothing short of remarkable. With a deep passion for nutrition and food science, he discovered his calling early on, setting the stage for his future in the world of integrative and lifestyle medicine.

Having lived in different parts of the world, Coutinho's experiences have contributed to the uniqueness of his approach. Currently based in Mumbai, he has spent a decade in the field of integrative and lifestyle medicine, working with patients across the globe through his platform 'You Care by Luke Coutinho.' This platform, with its holistic and integrative approach to wellness, has been making waves in the health and wellness industry.

The core philosophy of 'YouCare by Luke Coutinho' revolves around the idea of empowering patients to

take charge of their health. It goes beyond traditional medicine, collaborating with allopathic practitioners, oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, yoga experts, life coaches, emotional counsellors, homeopathy experts and other specialists to provide comprehensive and integrative care. Alongside conventional treatments, the platform emphasises the importance of nutrition, exercise, emotional wellness, and sleep in promoting holistic healing.

The goal is to guide patients towards a lifestyle that reduces dependency on medications, addressing the root cause of health issues.

His Memories of Growing Up in Goa

Coutinho's childhood memories in Goa are cherished, as they offer a stark contrast to the fast-paced world he now navigates. Recalling the slow and laid-back life, he advocates the importance of slowing down, taking time for oneself, and nurturing relationships. Growing up surrounded by nature and enjoying access to beaches, he understands the significance of

Photo Credits: Ishara, Kenya

integrating these elements into a healthy lifestyle.

Although Coutinho's path to success might not have followed a conventional trajectory, he believes in embracing opportunities when they present themselves. From a brief stint as a DJ during his college days to a successful career in the corporate world, he ultimately found his true calling in the realm of health and wellness.

With a strong foundation in nutrition and food science, Coutinho's expertise expanded to encompass various aspects of integrative medicine. Today, his approach goes beyond diets and exercise regimes, focusing on overall well-being encompassing physical, emotional, and mental health.

Accolades Received

as the "Champion of Lifestyle and Wellness for India." These accolades are a testament to his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on people's lives.

Other Endeavours

In 2020, Luke Coutinho co-founded YouCare Lifestyle, an e-commerce platform providing a curated selection of health products that meet stringent quality standards. The platform aims to simplify the process of choosing health products, ensuring they are authentic and effective.

Another integral aspect of Coutinho's journey is his highly successful podcast, "The Luke Coutinho Show," which has garnered a substantial following. Through this platform, he imparts valuable insights on adopting simple yet impactful changes to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Coutinho's dedication to promoting health and wellness has not gone unnoticed, as he has received numerous awards and recognitions. From being featured in prestigious lists such as GQ's Top 50 Most Influential Indians and Vogue's listing, he was also nominated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi www.itsgoa.com

Recently, Luke initiated an innovative social media detox program that encourages people to take an eight-day break from digital platforms. The program aims to highlight the transformative effects of disconnecting from the virtual world, leading to

Luke Coutinho being felicitated with the Maharashtra Leadership Award 2022 for his contribution in the field of Integrative and Lifestyle Medicine by Hon. Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari

better sleep, improved emotional health, and enhanced relationships.

His latest book, "Small Wins Every Day," has quickly gained popularity. In the book, Luke compiles 100 small yet powerful lifestyle changes that, when consistently implemented, can create a positive impact on one's well-being.

In his work with prominent figures such as actor Mahesh Babu, Luke emphasises the importance of maintaining physical and emotional health amidst the demands of a high-profile career. His approach revolves around personalised nutrition and mental well-being to ensure holistic health for his clients.

Future Plans

As for the future of 'You Care by Luke Coutinho,' Luke remains committed to his primary focus on patients, continuously striving to create awareness and inspire individuals to adopt a holistic lifestyle. He is also the founder and chief program mentor for Integrative Nutrition and Dietetics courses at the Lifeness Science Institute (LSI) which

further contributes to spreading knowledge and expertise in integrative and lifestyle medicine.

Luke Coutinho's journey from Goa to becoming a leading integrative lifestyle expert has been driven by his passion for health, commitment to making a difference, and dedication to lifelong learning. His holistic approach serves as an inspiration to countless individuals seeking to take charge of their health and well-being, proving that simple lifestyle changes can lead to extraordinary transformations.

For more information about the various services provided by Luke Coutinho, contact:

Programs Enquiries: info@lukecoutinho.com

Consult enquiries: appointments@lukecoutinho.com

Toll free number: 1800 102 0253

Website: www.lukecoutinho.com

Follow Luke on Social Media:  You Care: Website | You Care FB | You Care IG

Luke Coutinho: FB Page | IG Page | Youtube |  Blog | Website

www.itsgoa.com

Luke speaking at the launch event of his book ‘Small Wins Every Day’

Photo Credits: Ishara, Kenya

Photo Credits: Ishara, Kenya

INFLUENCER

nishita rivankar

With more than 165K followers on her page ‘GoaExplore’, Nishita Rivankar is undoubtedly one of Goa’s most popular food and travel influencers.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: Nishita Rivankar

www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

In the age of social media, influencers have become a significant force in shaping trends, sharing experiences, and inspiring others. Nishita Rivankar, a lawyer by profession as well as a talented blogger, content creator, and curator, has emerged as a prominent figure in the influencer landscape, particularly in showcasing the beauty of Goa. With her Instagram page "Goa Explore," Nishita has captivated the hearts of thousands of followers by sharing her love for travel, food, and the vibrant culture of her home state. Let's delve into her journey, challenges, and the message she wishes to share with Goan youngsters.

Her Journey

Nishita's journey as an influencer began in December 2016 when she created the Instagram page "Goa Explore." Initially, she gained experience in understanding Instagram algorithms and grew her first successful account, "@SimbaThePersianPrince," dedicated to her cat Simba.

Encouraged by her best friend, she decided to showcase the wonders of Goa through her lens. In a short span, Nishita's page gained traction and amassed over 10,000 followers within a year. Today, her page 'Goa Explore' boasts a follower base of more than 1 lakh 65 thousand followers.

Expansion and Collaboration

As the popularity of "Goa Explore" grew, Nishita received requests from photographers and videographers to feature their work on her page. Recognising the opportunity to provide exposure to local talents, Nishita started collaborating with fellow creators. Today, her content includes not only stunning photographs but also engaging video reels, allowing her followers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Goa's tourist spots, restaurants, hotels, and events. Nishita's collaborations extend beyond Goa, encompassing influencers from various parts of India, including renowned celebrities.

Nishita doing a promotion for Tuborg Soda at the Sunburn Festival

At Titlie Goa Restaurant for an Event

Overcoming Challenges

While Nishita has achieved remarkable success as an influencer, she acknowledges the challenges that come with this field. The rapid rise of competition poses a constant hurdle. Nevertheless, her dedication to consistently providing valuable content has helped her maintain a strong following and overcome obstacles along the way.

Role Models and Inspirations

As an influencer herself, Nishita draws inspiration from a few notable travel content creators. She admires individuals like Shehnaz Tresurywala, Curly Tales, and Akanksha Monga, who go beyond mere video creation and offer substantial value to travellers. By following their lead, Nishita aims to deliver the best travel and food guidance to her followers, ensuring they have enriching experiences in Goa.

The Future Path

Nishita remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead in her career as an influencer. With the everevolving nature of social media, she does not delve too deeply into planning for the future. As long as Instagram continues to support content creators, Nishita will continue to create and share her passion with the world.

Her Message to Goan Youth

Nishita encourages Goan youngsters to find joy, contentment, and love in whatever they choose to pursue. She emphasises the importance of listening to one's heart, aligning it with their talents, and staying true to oneself, regardless of societal pressures. Trending pursuits, wealth, and fame may offer fleeting moments of elation, but true peace and contentment reside in doing what truly brings happiness.

With Celebrity Pilates Instructor Yasmin Karachiwala at The Westin Goa

Nishita Doing a Promotion at a Sushi Festival organised At Yaki Zushi Restaurant

Nishita with Dr. Pramod Sawant. Honourable Chief Minister of Goa

AMIRA MENURKAR GOANS ABROAD

A successful Goan model and influencer making waves in the world of glamour in Bahrain.

Article by: Steve Antao Images by: Amira Menurkar

In the world of social media, influencers have become a powerful force, shaping trends and influencing millions of people around the globe. Among them is Amira Menurkar, a 24 -year old model and blogger hailing from the beautiful village of Assonora in North Goa.

Her Early Life

Born and brought up in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Amira's heart was always tied to her homeland, Goa. After completing her schooling, she returned to Goa to pursue her higher education. She enrolled at Dnyanpraasarak Mandal's College, Mapusa, where she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a specialisation in Marketing. Throughout her college days, she resided in Mapusa and Saipem, Candolim, exploring the vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes of Goa.

Her Journey as a Model and Influencer

After completing her graduation, Amira moved back to Bahrain and interned in Human Resources at an interior design firm. Later, she joined a logistics firm where she currently serves as an Air Imports Executive. Amira’s childhood dream of becoming a model was rekindled when a friend approached her to model for his startup boutique. Encouraged by the experience, she took a leap of faith into the world of modelling and was soon recognised for her unique style and personality.

The turning point for Amira came when she joined "Bahrain Life," a marketing platform that kick-started her journey as a blogger and influencer. Driven by her passion for exploring new places, savouring delightful cuisines, and capturing the beauty of life through photography, she began to share her experiences with the world.

Challenges Faced

In every endeavour, support from loved ones is crucial, and Amira was fortunate to have the backing of her family as she pursued her dreams. Although some of her friends initially doubted her path, she remained steadfast in her beliefs, ignoring the negativity and criticism. Her journey was not without challenges, as balancing a full-time job as an Air Imports Executive with her passion for influencing demanded impeccable multi-tasking skills and dedication.

Amira Menurkar

Amira Doing a Photoshoot for a makeup artist

Role Models and Aspirations

Inspired by fellow influencers, particularly Nagma Mirajkar, who attained fame and success at a young age, Amira found the motivation to keep pushing forward. Dreaming big, she aspires to meet Bollywood heartthrob, Kartik Aaryan someday. She also intends to collaborate with prominent influencers from Goa and across India in the future.

Future Plans

With her sights set on greatness, Amira hopes to transition into a full-time career in the influencing industry. Her dream is to reach new heights where her passion can not only sustain her lifestyle but also empower her to support others and give back to society.

Her Message to Goan Youth

As she reflects on her journey and the challenges she faced, Amira shares a powerful message with all Goan youngsters: “Stay positive, remain determined in your pursuits, and never allow other people’s negativity to dampen your spirits. Embrace your dreams and turn them into reality, just as she did''.

Follow Amira on Instagram @amira_mk29

Doing a Photo Shoot for a boutique in Bahrain

Amira Doing a Casual Photoshoot

Amira doing a Photo Shoot For a Make-Up Artist

An interior designer by profession, Prapti Tar’s passion for photography and content creation led her to find huge success as a food and travel blogger.

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Prapti Tar

In the digital age of today, social media has become a platform for individuals to showcase their talents, passions, and journeys. Prapti Tar, a talented food and travel blogger hailing from Mapusa, has embraced this medium to share her love for food, photography, and wanderlust with the world. With her vibrant content and captivating storytelling, Prapti has carved a niche for herself in the realm of content creation and social media management.

A Childhood Love for Photography

From an early age, Prapti developed a keen interest in photography. She fondly recalls a childhood memory of her father gifting her a small camera, which sparked her passion for capturing the beauty of nature. As she grew older, her photography skills flourished, and she began using an SLR camera to capture stunning portraits of her friends. Despite her love for photography, circumstances prevented her from pursuing it as a full-time career. However, this setback did not deter Prapti from pursuing her dreams.

The Unexpected Shift

Prapti was pursuing a degree in interior design in Pune, but fate had different plans. The COVID-19 pandemic forced her to return to Goa. While pursuing her degree online from Goa, she found solace and inspiration in the beauty of her homeland. Exploring the scenic landscapes and indulging in her passion for photography, Prapti discovered a new path for herself. She realised that content creation and social media management aligned perfectly with her skills and aspirations.

Embracing Content Creation

Travelling has always been a major part of Prapti’s life since childhood as her parents, especially her father, love to travel. She has travelled to almost all the states of India and a few other countries, long before she began her journey as a blogger on Instagram. Also, when it comes to food, Prapti's mother is an incredible cook and her food is loved by everyone. All of this inspired Prapti to venture into the world of food and travel blogging.

Prapti at StarBucks, Candolim

Enjoying Mughlai Cuisine at Karim's Goa

The Journey Begins

Armed with her camera and a newfound purpose, Prapti embarked on her journey as a food and travel blogger. In 2019, she teamed up with her best friend to create a food page called 'foodonrun' on Instagram. Her love for photography seamlessly blended with her love for food, resulting in visually appealing and mouthwatering content. With every post, Prapti's talent and dedication shone through, captivating her growing audience.

Challenges Faced

While Prapti's journey has been marked by passion and success, she has also faced challenges along the way. The lack of consistent brand collaboration deals has been a hurdle she has had to navigate. However, her determination and unwavering focus have allowed her to persevere. Prapti's belief in her abilities and her constant pursuit of excellence have enabled her to overcome obstacles and continue sharing her culinary adventures with the world.

Supportive Influences

Prapti credits her parents as the pillars of her success. Their unwavering support and encouragement have fuelled her ambition to pursue her dreams fearlessly. Despite facing some setbacks in friendships due to her growing popularity on Instagram, Prapti remains grateful for the few friends who have stood by her side and provided unwavering support.

Looking To The Future

Looking ahead, Prapti has ambitious plans to travel the world and create captivating content. Her ultimate goal is to inspire others to follow their passions and embrace the opportunities that come their way. She urges all Goan youth to believe in their abilities and pursue their own unique paths.

Follow Prapti on her foodie adventures at: Instagram: www.instagram.com/prapp_t

Doing a collaboration at Miri x FWB RESTAURANT, Panjim

Doing a Collaboration with Bawri Goa

In the vibrant world of music, where beats and melodies transport us to a different realm, Priyanka Chandalia, better known by her stage name DJ Devaaya, has made a remarkable journey. From her childhood dreams of pursuing acting and dancing to her present-day success as a DJ, Priyanka's story is one of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of her true calling. Let's delve into the life and career of this talented artist.

A Passion Ignited

Born and raised in the heart of Goa’s capital city Panjim, Priyanka's love for music and dance was evident from a young age. As she grew older, her inclination towards acting and dancing intensified, and she aspired to turn her passion into a profession. However, life had different plans in store for her.

The DJing Journey Begins

During her early twenties, Priyanka discovered her fondness for clubbing, drawn to the decks, the electrifying atmosphere, and the captivating energy of the crowd. It was this experience that sparked her interest in the art of DJing. The desire to learn this exhilarating craft and share her love for music with others grew within her, leading her down a path that would soon become her true calling.

The Path to Success

In 2019, Priyanka embarked on her career as a DJ. While she was relatively new to the industry, she realised that her journey had begun just after completing her DJ course. Recognising the competitive nature of the industry and the abundance of talented DJs, she understood the importance of hard work, continuous learning, and building a dedicated fan base.

Priyanka's dedication paid off, and she soon found herself performing at popular nightclubs in Goa such as HammerZ, Tito's, Mambo’s, and SinQ. Her talent also took her beyond the borders of Goa,

Priyanka Performing At Club SOHO, Panjim

Priyanka performing at Cape Town cafe Goa

where she played in various national and international locations including Chennai, Hyderabad, Chattisgarh, Mumbai, and even the picturesque Maldives.

Unforgettable Moments and Inspirations

Reflecting on her journey, Priyanka fondly recalls her first gig, where she nervously performed an opening set to a small audience. Despite the initial butterflies, that particular milestone holds a special place in her heart.

Priyanka draws inspiration from a diverse range of DJs, both local and international. Among her favourites are James Hype, whose incredible live performances leave her in awe, and esteemed artists like David Guetta and Afrojack, who have set the benchmark for energetic and captivating DJ sets.

Beyond DJing

While DJing remains her primary focus, Priyanka is an artist with many interests. She has already studied music production and plans to further explore and practice this craft. Additionally, she aims to delve into

various creative fields such as video editing, fashion, dancing, and fitness. Priyanka believes that these pursuits not only enhance her personal growth but also contribute to building a strong brand as an artist.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Priyanka has ambitious plans for her DJ career. She is determined to perform in more cities across India and internationally, expanding her reach and sharing her electrifying music with a global audience. With her talent, passion, and unwavering dedication, there's no doubt that she will continue to make waves in the music industry.

Her Message

Priyanka's journey is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. She encourages others to pursue their aspirations, no matter the obstacles they face. Her message to people is simple yet profound: "Every dream and desire is possible. Dare to take the plunge and pursue what makes you happy. With hard work and perseverance, you can achieve incredible results."

Performing at Amigos club, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh

Article by: Steve Antao Images by: GobbleTales

Vaibhavi Sawant Lawande and Tanay Lawande are two dynamic individuals who have been entertaining Goans since 2016 through their Instagram food blog called GobbleTales. Despite their diverse professional backgrounds, this young couple who have known each other since childhood, have captivated the taste buds and hearts of their followers with their culinary explorations across Goa.

Following Their Passions

From their early years, it was clear that Vaibhavi and Tanay possessed distinct dreams and aspirations. While Vaibhavi harboured ambitions of becoming an astronomer, Tanay's fascination with the medical field sparked his desire to become a doctor. Vaibhavi's journey led her to pursue a career in IT engineering, whereas Tanay dedicated himself to the pursuit of an MBBS degree. Their childhood inclinations gave them a solid foundation of determination and dedication, which they would later channel into their food blogging venture.

The Genesis of GobbleTales

After completing their respective educational pursuits, Vaibhavi and Tanay found themselves gravitating toward their shared passion for food. What began as a mere exploration of restaurants across Goa in 2016 gradually transformed into something meaningful and significant. Initially, they didn't fully grasp the concept of food blogging, but with time, they honed their skills and discovered their unique voice in the digital food community.

Support Received

Despite their initial confusion about food blogging, Vaibhavi and Tanay found unwavering support from their families. Vaibhavi's father even became an integral part of their journey, featuring in one of their viral videos and earning the title of a "Top Fan" of GobbleTales on Facebook.

While they haven't collaborated with other influencers yet, their journey has connected them with remarkable creators, talented chefs, and

Vaibhavi and Tanay experiencing dining in the sky with ‘Fly Dining’ at Grand Hyatt, Bambolim

visionary entrepreneurs, enriching their experiences and broadening their horizons.

Overcoming Challenges

Like any creative endeavour, GobbleTales has encountered its fair share of challenges. The duo's commitment to producing quality content has often demanded sacrifices in terms of time and extensive travel. Navigating their professional commitments alongside their passion for food blogging has required meticulous planning and an unwavering dedication to their craft. Through perseverance, Vaibhavi and Tanay have conquered these obstacles and continue to thrive in the digital realm.

Role Models and Inspirations

Vaibhavi finds inspiration in the unwavering dedication and exceptional journey of Indian cricketing legend, Virat Kohli. His work ethic, passion, and determination to succeed against all odds resonate deeply with her. Tanay, on the other hand, greatly admires business tycoon Warren Buffett for his integrity, ethical practices, and commitment to values such as honesty and transparency.

Looking Ahead

Currently, Vaibhavi and Tanay are focused on expanding their online presence and increasing their visibility across various platforms. They aspire to enhance their content creation skills while connecting with a wider audience. GobbleTales is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that hobbies can evolve into rewarding and fulfilling careers.

Their Message to Goan Youth

As role models for Goan youngsters, Vaibhavi and Tanay encourage them to explore their options when it comes to choosing a career path. They emphasise that learning is no longer limited to traditional educational institutions and that hobbies can transcend mere pastimes. The duo encourages young minds to acquire diverse skills and to prioritise their own happiness and peace of mind above societal expectations and grades.

Follow Vaibhavi and Tanay on their gastronomic adventures on social media at: Instagram: www.instagram.com/gobbletales/

Enjoying the Sunday TipCy Brunch at Hyatt Centric, Candolim

stomping grapes together at Kinvah Vineyards, Bengaluru

www.itsgoa.com

The Perils of Social Media

In today's digital era, social media has undeniably become an influential force in the lives of young people. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat have revolutionised the way we connect, communicate, and consume information. While social media offers numerous advantages, it also comes with a darker side that we must acknowledge and address.

Let’s take a look at some of the dangers that exist in the world of social media:

1. Cyberbullying: The Silent Threat

In today's digital age, cyberbullying has emerged as a silent threat that affects countless young individuals. Cyberbullying refers to the act of using electronic communication platforms, such as social media, to harass, intimidate, or harm others. The anonymity and ease of communication provided by social media have unfortunately made it a breeding ground for such malicious behaviour.

How social media enables cyberbullying

Social media enables cyberbullying in several ways. Creating fake profiles or hiding behind usernames gives bullies a sense of impunity, making it easier for them to target their victims. The public nature of social media amplifies the reach of hurtful messages, as they can quickly spread and gain an audience beyond the intended target.

The psychological and emotional impact on

victims

The impact of cyberbullying on its victims is profound. Constant exposure to derogatory

comments, threats, and humiliation can lead to heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The victims may experience a decline in self-esteem and self-worth as they internalise the negative messages directed toward them.

2. Online Predators: The Hidden Danger

While social media platforms have revolutionised the way we connect and communicate, they have also provided opportunities for online predators to exploit and harm our youth. The hidden danger of online predators is a serious concern.

How social media provides opportunities for predators?

social media platforms provide a virtual playground for predators to target vulnerable individuals. The anonymity and ease of creating fake profiles make it easier for predators to disguise their true identities and gain the trust of young users. They exploit the open nature of social media to initiate conversations and establish relationships with unsuspecting victims.

The risks of online grooming and exploitation

Online grooming refers to the process by which predators build trust and manipulate young individuals, often with the intent of engaging in sexual exploitation or abuse. Through deceptive tactics and manipulation, predators establish emotional connections with their victims, gradually crossing boundaries and coercing them into harmful situations. The consequences of online grooming can be devastating, leading to longlasting psychological and emotional trauma.

Importance of educating Youngsters about online safety

To combat the dangers of online predators, it is crucial to educate young individuals about online safety and the risks associated with engaging with strangers on social media. Teaching them about the signs of grooming, the importance of privacy settings, and the potential consequences of sharing personal information can empower them to make informed decisions and protect themselves online.

Our educational initiatives should also include guidance on responsible online behaviour, emphasising the importance of critical thinking, skepticism, and verifying the authenticity of online contacts. With knowledge and awareness, we can reduce their vulnerability and help them navigate the digital landscape safely.

Encouraging open communication and reporting suspicious activities

Creating a culture of open communication is vital in addressing the threat of online predators. Youngsters should be encouraged to talk openly with trusted adults about their online experiences, any concerns they may have, and any interactions that make them feel uncomfortable or raise suspicions. Establishing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment helps in fostering trust and ensuring that they feel safe reporting any suspicious activities.

Furthermore, it is crucial to provide accessible reporting mechanisms on social media platforms and other online platforms to allow users to easily report abusive or predatory behaviour. Timely reporting of suspicious activities can enable authorities to take necessary action and protect potential victims.

3. Online Harassment and Invasion of Privacy: The Price of Sharing

The pervasive use of social media exposes our youth to risks such as online harassment and invasion of privacy. The price of sharing personal information and engaging on social media platforms can be very high, requiring us to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding our privacy.

Associated Privacy Risks

Social media platforms often require users to share personal information, including names, locations, and even intimate details of their lives. This information, if mishandled or accessed by malicious individuals, can lead to privacy breaches, identity

theft, or cyber-stalking. Additionally, it can amplify the impact of privacy violations, as information spreads rapidly and can be difficult to control.

Examples of online harassment and consequences

Online harassment encompasses a range of harmful behaviours, including cyberbullying, hate speech, doxxing (revealing personal information), and non-consensual sharing of intimate images (often referred to as "revenge porn"). These consequences can be severe, leading to emotional distress, psychological trauma, damage to reputation, and even physical harm.

Safeguarding personal information and practicing online safety

To protect ourselves and our youth from online harassment and privacy invasion, it is crucial to adopt effective strategies to stay safe online. Following are a few precautions which youngsters can exercise while using social media platforms:

1. Review privacy settings Familiarise yourself with the privacy settings of social media platforms and ensure they are configured to your comfort level. Limit the visibility of personal information and restrict access to your posts and profile to trusted connections.

2. Be mindful of what you share Exercise caution when sharing personal information or intimate details online. Consider the potential implications and long-term consequences of sharing certain content, as once it's out there, it may be challenging to regain control.

3. Think before accepting friend requests or engaging with strangers Exercise caution when accepting friend requests from unknown individuals. Be mindful of sharing personal information or engaging in conversations with people you do not know in real life. Remember, not everyone online may have good intentions.

4. Regularly review and update passwords

Ensure that your social media accounts have strong and unique passwords. Regularly update them to minimise the risk of unauthorised access.

Reporting and addressing online harassment incidents

If you encounter online harassment or witness it happening to others, it is essential to take action:

1. Document evidence

Preserve any evidence of online harassment, such as screenshots, messages, or any other relevant information. This documentation can be crucial when reporting the incident.

2. Report the harassment Utilise reporting mechanisms provided by social media platforms to report instances of harassment. Most platforms have dedicated reporting options for various types of abuse and harassment. Prompt reporting increases the chances of swift action being taken against the harasser.

3. Seek support

Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or professionals for emotional support and guidance. Sharing your experience can provide reassurance and help you navigate the situation effectively.

4. Involve authorities if necessary

In severe cases of online harassment or threats, involving law enforcement may be necessary. Local authorities can provide guidance and assistance in addressing the situation and ensuring your safety.

Conclusion

The dangers associated with social media as highlighted above are real, pervasive, and multifaceted, making it imperative to raise awareness about their impact on youth. By understanding the risks, we can better equip ourselves and young individuals to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. Raising awareness involves educating parents, educators, and young individuals about the potential pitfalls and guiding them toward healthy online habits and interactions.

Clive Coutinho is a Certified Life Coach from the International Coaching Federation. His proficiency lies in the realm of the human mind, behaviour and communication. Meticulous insight, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to rehabilitate are at his core, ensuring every conversation with him is engrossing, constructive, and uplifting.

He serves as a Life Coach at the renowned holistic wellness platform ‘YouCare By Luke Coutinho’.

For consultations, he can be contacted on:

Phone: +919049884135

Email: clive@lukecoutinho.com

Website: https://www.lukecoutinho.com/ consult_with_holistic_life_coach