Kenzly Dsilva
Goa-based model and artist building an authentic, storytellingdriven fashion career through creativity and individuality.
Akio Fernandes
Volume 5
Issue 2
February 2026
Tanushree Basnet
From pharmacy to pottery, creating mindful, purpose-driven work rooted in travel, tradition, and simplicity.
Yashvardhan Naik
Young creative model and dancer blending fashion, music, and authenticity with global aspirations. From fan to Head of Content, shaping FC Goa’s identity through storytelling, leadership, and digital engagement.
February in Goa unfolds with a quiet confidence. The days are warm but gentle, the evenings carry stories in the air, and the state feels poised between reflection and forward motion. This issue of ItsGoa – Being Goan is shaped by that in-between space, where journeys evolve, passions mature, and personal callings find clearer form.
At the centre is Kenzly Dsilva, a Goa-based model, artist, and creator whose global upbringing and discipline fuel a fashion path rooted in authenticity. Their work leans into individuality and story, not noise or trends.
In football, Akio Fernandes reflects rare continuity—from lifelong fan to Head of Content & Social Media at FC Goa. Through sharp storytelling and leadership, he helps define the club’s identity and deepen fan connection in modern football.
We also step into slower, earthier rhythms with Tanushree Basnet, who moved from pharmacy to pottery through travel and lived experience. Her clay practice is intentional and simple—built on purpose, patience, and tradition.
Rising talent takes the spotlight with Yashvardhan Keshav Naik, a 21-year-old model and dancer blending fashion, music, and self-expression while staying committed to education. His focus is clear: remain authentic while aiming bigger, internationally.
Digital storytelling finds its voice in Anisha Mane, a nurse-turned content creator whose food, travel, and lifestyle reels feel personal and relatable. By turning everyday moments into short-form stories, she connects with audiences far beyond Goa.
From the sidelines, Aryan Jagdish Bhobe, FC Goa’s official Team Photographer, captures the raw emotion behind the game. His journey from devoted supporter to pitchside chronicler is powered by instinct, persistence, and love for football.
Finally, we return to Goa’s lifelines—its rivers. The Mandovi, Zuari, and Chapora shape culture, trade, fishing communities, festivals, and tourism, sustaining livelihoods and reflecting Goa’s deep bond with water and heritage.
Join us in celebrating Goa’s vibrant stories, from entrepreneurs to artists, each contributing uniquely to our community. Let their journeys inspire you to follow your passions and pursue your dreams with determination.
Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of our e-magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.
Until next month, cheers!
Jessyl Fernandez Editor
01 Kenzly Dsilva
02 Akio Fernandes
03 Tanushree Basnet
04 Yashvardhan Naik
05 Anisha Mane
06 Aryan Jagdish Bhobe
07 Goa’s River Stories
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.
Editorial Team
Chief Editor
Jessyl Fernandez
Sales
Donald Fernandez
Content & Social Media
Saviola Dias
Renata Fernandes
Graphics & Layout
Latisha Govekar
For advertising queries: +91 7887330620 / 9370502124
ItsGoa Media Group
Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA
Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521
Email: mail@itsgoa.com
Website: itsgoa.com
Kenzly Dsilva is a Goa-based model, artist, and creator whose global upbringing, individuality, and discipline drive a storytelling-led fashion career rooted in authenticity and creative expression. Cover feature
Kenzly Dsilva
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Kenzly Dsilva
At just 19, Kenzly Dsilva represents a new generation of models redefining what it means to be seen and remembered, in fashion. A model, artist, and content creator based in Goa, India, Kenzly’s journey is shaped by a global upbringing, an instinctive creative voice, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.
A Global Upbringing and Creative Foundation
Raised in Dubai and holding European nationality, Kenzly grew up immersed in a tapestry of cultures, aesthetics, and perspectives. This exposure is evident in every facet of their work, from a freespirited personal style to a fluid ability to adapt to diverse creative visions. Creativity has never been a side pursuit; it has been central to who Kenzly is, informing both their modeling career and their parallel life as a visual artist.
Modeling: More Than Poses
For Kenzly, modeling is not limited to conventional posing or surface-level beauty. It is an act of storytelling conveyed through movement, emotion, styling, and presence in front of the camera.
This philosophy has allowed them to collaborate with a range of brands and platforms, including Galderma and Esoteric World, as well as editorial, runway, and property shoots for names such as Hyatt Place Candolim, Holiday Inn Resort, and W Goa. Each project has served as a building block, sharpening their craft and expanding their visual
Building a Career through Discipline and Practice
A pivotal aspect of Kenzly’s career has been their independently built profile. Without shortcuts, they have relied on discipline, hands-on experience, and consistent self-improvement to carve a space within the industry. This self-driven approach is complemented by academic grounding; alongside their creative pursuits, Kenzly is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, bringing strategic thinking to an otherwise instinctled career.
www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa
Kenzly Dsilva
Shot for Esoteric world
Personal Style: Funky, Hippy, and Indie
Kenzly’s aesthetic is unmistakably their own. Described as funky, hippy, and indie, their style reflects Goa’s laid-back energy and an affinity for bold colors, layered textures, and expressive silhouettes. Often referred to locally as a “hippy foreigner,” Kenzly embraces the label as an honest reflection of their identity. Inspiration flows from travel culture, music, and art, with indie music playing a particularly formative role. Among their influences, Harry Styles stands out, not only for his approach to fashion and music, but for his unapologetic individuality and emotional depth.
What Sets Kenzly Apart in the Industry
What truly distinguishes Kenzly in a crowded industry is not only their distinctive facial structure, but the personality they bring into every frame. Loving, expressive, bold, and quietly soft-hearted, they resist being confined to a single mold.
Their experience as a content creator further enhances their work, offering an intuitive understanding of digital visuals, audience engagement, and brand alignment, an increasingly vital skill set in today’s fashion landscape.
Fashion Trends: Embracing Individuality and Creativity
Kenzly is especially energized by the fashion industry’s evolving priorities. The growing emphasis on inclusivity, individuality, and personal branding resonates deeply with their own values. Recent trends marked by bold color palettes, strong visual narratives, and a revival of expressive aesthetics align seamlessly with their creative instincts and reinforce the belief that fashion is most powerful when it reflects real personality.
Maintaining Well-being Amidst the Demands of Modeling
Maintaining balance in an industry known for its physical and mental demands is something Kenzly approaches with intention. Physical well-being is supported through consistent fitness routines, while mental resilience comes from focusing inward rather than comparing outward. Rejection, they believe, is not a reflection of worth but a natural part of the profession, one that must be met with perspective, gratitude, and persistence.
shot for Shrish rivonkar
Shot for esoteric world
Kenzly Dsilva
Favorite Projects and Meaningful Experiences
Among the many projects that have shaped their journey, a shoot for Esoteric World in Chandor stands out as particularly meaningful. Set in a serene private home and shot with Peter Woodward, the project allowed Kenzly to merge fashion with a relaxed, organic presence. The result was a performance that felt genuine and deeply aligned with their artistic sensibilities, an intersection where modeling became pure self-expression.
Advice for Aspiring Models
Kenzly offers heartfelt advice to anyone entering the modeling industry: “Embrace your uniqueness. Rejection is part of the industry, but it doesn’t define your worth. Build confidence through experience, stay professional, and never change yourself just to fit into someone else’s idea of fashion. Avoid comparison and focus on becoming the best version of yourself. The journey will have ups and downs, and developing the right mindset is essential.”
Future Goals: Expanding Artistic
Beyond modeling, Kenzly is equally committed to their evolution as an artist. Their abstract and psychedelic artworks are being commercialized, not purely for business gain, but as an extension of creative fulfillment. Future aspirations include seeing this art integrated into fashion and lifestyle spaces, expanding their role as a fashion and lifestyle content creator, and eventually exploring creative direction and visual storytelling on a larger scale.
Looking Ahead: The Path Forward
In the years ahead, Kenzly envisions a career defined by global collaborations, major brand walk-throughs, and a life shaped by travel and creative documentation. At the same time, they aim to establish their artwork on an international platform recognized, exhibited, and celebrated. Ultimately, Kenzly seeks to build a career rooted in creativity, individuality, and honest self-expression, one frame, one canvas, and one story at a time.
Kenzly on the runway at JD Institute of Fashion Technology
hotel Lua Nova
If holidays are inspired by nature and your thirst for rustic solitude and inner peace, Lua Nova is the hotel your heart was yearning for.
Located at Goa's celebrated holiday capital at Baga, it overlooks a beautiful Canvas of village Goa, just 5 minutes walk from the Baga Beach.
content & marketing
Akio Fernandes
From lifelong fan to Head of Content & Social Media, Akio Fernandes’ journey with FC Goa blends passion, storytelling, and leadership, shaping the club’s identity, fan engagement, and modern football narrative.
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Akio Fernandes
Akio Fernandes’ journey with FC Goa is one of rare continuity, one that began in the stands and evolved onto the pitch and beyond.
A lifelong football enthusiast, his connection with the sport deepened after the 2006 FIFA World Cup and later through his admiration for European clubs like Spain’s national team and Manchester City. When FC Goa was founded in 2014, it marked a defining moment for Akio, as the club represented football at the highest level in his home state.
That emotional connection would later shape his professional path. In 2021, Akio joined FC Goa’s marketing team, marking the start of a journey that would see him rise to Head of Content & Social Media within four years. Today, at 29, he is in his fifth season with the club and plays a key role in shaping how FC Goa is seen, heard, and felt by fans across India and beyond.
Leading Content and Media in Modern Football
As Head of Content & Social Media, Akio oversees a wide spectrum of responsibilities. From managing the club’s daily social media presence and capturing on-field and off-field moments, to executing large scale campaigns involving ticket sales, jersey
launches, sponsorship activations, hoardings, and advertising, his role extends far beyond posting content.
His work lies at the intersection of storytelling, branding, and fan engagement, ensuring that every piece of content reflects the club’s identity while resonating with an increasingly digital audience.
Storytelling Rooted in Fan Perspective and Goan Identity
One of Akio’s defining strengths is his ability to think like a fan, because he was one long before he became an employee. This perspective allows him to intuitively understand what supporters want to see, feel, and connect with.
Under his leadership, FC Goa’s content has consistently incorporated elements of Goan culture, music, and local identity. This approach strengthens the bond with the club’s core audience, which also forms the majority of its ticket-buying fanbase. The result is storytelling that feels authentic, rooted, and emotionally engaging rather than manufactured.
Akio Fernandes
Akio with FC Goa Fans
At AFC Champions League2 Draw, Malaysia
Where Football and Content Creation Converged
While football was always present in Akio’s life, his interest in content creation took shape during his college years. His creative instincts found an outlet through The Hungry Wolf, a food blog and content platform he has run for nearly a decade, producing blogs and short-form video content around food and restaurants.
Bringing together his love for football and visual storytelling at FC Goa was, by his own admission, a dream realised, one where passion and profession seamlessly aligned.
Navigating Pressure in the Digital Age
Managing a football club’s digital presence comes with unique challenges. In a results-driven environment, public sentiment can shift rapidly depending on on-field performances. Akio acknowledges that content strategies must adapt just as quickly, especially during periods of poor form when communication needs to be measured, sensitive, and thoughtful.
Compounding this is the reality of today’s saturated digital ecosystem. With audiences consuming exponentially more content than they did a few years ago, capturing attention requires speed, relevance, and originality. Akio addresses this by planning multiple creative contingencies and staying constantly alert to emerging trends.
Creativity Without Compromise
For Akio, creativity cannot pause because of results. Football’s unpredictability demands readiness, Plan A, B, and even C. Staying agile, embracing trends early, and reacting decisively are central to maintaining relevance.
A key milestone in his tenure was the formation of FC Goa’s first fully in-house content team since 2016. Built two years ago under his leadership, the team marked a shift away from agency-led execution, allowing for faster turnaround, stronger cultural understanding, and tighter alignment with the club’s values.
Fan Engagement as the Club’s Lifeline
Akio strongly believes that fan engagement is central to a football club’s success. Supporters invest more deeply in clubs that acknowledge them, interact with them, and create a sense of belonging.
During his time overseeing fan engagement, he acted as a bridge between supporters and management, an advantage amplified by his identity as a local fan turned professional.
Initiatives such as Indian football’s first-ever fan message mosaic, sponsored away trips, ticket benefits, and regular interactions with season ticket holders helped strengthen this bond both online and offline.
Youth Development as a Content Pillar
FC Goa’s investment in grassroots football plays a significant role in its content strategy. With developmental teams ranging from Under-13 to Under-21, the club actively showcases its pathwaydriven ecosystem.
The rise of players like Brison Fernandes, who progressed from the U-15s to the senior team, earned ISL’s Best Young Player award, and scored India’s first ACL 2 goal against Al-Nassr, has reinforced the importance of youth-focused storytelling. Highlighting this structure also attracts sponsors by demonstrating long-term vision beyond the first team.
Akio along with team
Indian Super League, Kerala
Representing Club and Country on the Asian Stage
One of Akio’s most defining professional moments came during FC Goa’s qualification for the AFC Champions League 2. Following a crucial win against Al-Seeb SC, he was informed that he would travel to Malaysia alongside the team manager to represent the club at the official ACL 2 draw.
From being a fan in the stands to representing both club and country at a continental event, the experience symbolised the extraordinary arc of his journey. Being drawn alongside Asian giants like AlNassr only amplified the significance of the moment.
Milestones, Silverware, and Pride
While Super Cup triumphs remain special, the 2025–26 season stands out as the most memorable chapter of Akio’s career. Despite domestic uncertainties, FC Goa’s victory over Al-Seeb SC and subsequent participation in the ACL 2—travelling to Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Tajikistan, represented the pinnacle of Indian club football.
Being part of a team carrying national pride on an Asian stage, backed by fans across the country, was an experience he describes as unforgettable.
Staying Ahead in a Rapidly Evolving Landscape
Innovation, according to Akio, comes down to firstmover advantage. Following the right voices, recognising trends early, and acting quickly are essential. With modern tools, and the rise of AI, content creation has become more accessible, but only those who adapt continuously will stay relevant.
Advice to Aspiring Sports Content Creators
Akio views sports content creation in India as a niche with immense untapped potential. Despite the country’s size, there are still very few consistent and high-quality creators in the space.
His advice is simple: stay genuine, avoid imitation, and focus on building a distinct personal identity. While copying others may bring short-term growth,
sustainability comes from originality. With clubs and brands actively seeking authentic voices, the opportunity has never been greater.
More Than a Workplace
For Akio Fernandes, FC Goa is family. It is a shared emotional space, on the pitch with players and staff, and in the stands with supporters. Over eleven years, the club has shaped the lives of countless Goans, even those who no longer follow football closely.
Through highs, lows, and historic milestones, FC Goa has remained a constant. And for Akio, being part of that journey, helping tell its story, is not just a career, but a lifelong connection.
FC Goa at the ISL media briefing
Tanushree Basnet
From pharmacy to pottery, Tanushree Basnet’s journey blends travel, tradition, and mindful making, shaping a slow, purposedriven practice rooted in clay, simplicity, and lived experience.
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Tanushree Basnet
Tillotamma Pottery Logo
Tanushree Basnet’s path to pottery did not begin in a persistent pull toward a slower, more intentional way of living, one that ultimately redirected her life toward craft, travel, and earth-based making.
Roots, Restlessness, and the Search for Meaning
Originally from Assam and of Nepali heritage, Tanushree’s creative inclination was evident long before she found clay. Knitting, crochet, drawing, and sketching were constant companions, though none offered a lasting sense of grounding. This restlessness manifested in frequent professional shifts and, eventually, in a decisive departure from her nine-tofive routine. Seeking clarity and simplicity, she chose a nomadic phase, embracing a banjaran way of life that allowed space for reflection and self-discovery.
Walking the Mountains, Learning to Observe
Tanushree’s months in the Himalayas were formative. Based for a time in Rajhana near New Shimla, she undertook extensive pilgrimages and treks including the Char Dham Yatra, Amarnath Yatra, Vaishno Devi, and journeys through Kareri Lake, Boh Valley, Bijli Mahadev, Malana, Tosh, Jalon Jot, and the demanding Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra. Travel, inspired in part by minimalist and low-cost exploration philosophies, sharpened her observational skills. Moving through landscapes on foot instilled patience, awareness, and humility, qualities that would later shape her relationship with clay.
Andretta: The First Encounter with Pottery
After concluding her mountain chapter, Tanushree travelled to Goa, drawn initially by the promise of coastal life. It was during a visit to Andretta near Palampur, however, that pottery first revealed itself as more than an artistic pursuit. Observing potters at work, she encountered clay as a way of living rather than an object to master. The quiet rhythm of the wheel and the focused repetition of hand movements resonated deeply, marking a turning point that stayed with her long after.
Learning the Discipline of Tradition
To develop her practice seriously, Tanushree pursued formal training at the Central Village of Pottery Institute (CVPI), Khanapur. Over a fourmonth wheel-throwing course followed by a master training programme, she learned traditional techniques within a structured environment. CVPI instilled in her not just technical skill, but respect for material, consistency in practice, and the understanding that pottery is a lifelong discipline rather than a destination.
Wheel throwing: a moment of focus where hands and clay move as one
clay settles into its final form after fire
Establishing a Practice in Goa
Support from a government scheme, which provided her with a potter’s wheel, enabled Tanushree to establish her own workspace in Dongrim, Mandur. This milestone gave her the confidence to commit fully to daily studio practice. Today, she runs Tilottama Pottery Studio in Goa, where she creates sustainable terracotta ware, teaches beginners and enthusiasts, and contributes to the preservation of Indian pottery traditions through both making and mentoring.
An Aesthetic of Simplicity and Use
Tanushree’s work is defined by restraint and functionality. Her forms are clean, tactile, and shaped by everyday utility, allowing the clay’s natural character to remain visible. Alongside functional ware, she creates terracotta jewellery designed for daily wear, rooted firmly in traditional craft methods. Subtle textures and honest surfaces reflect a philosophy that values process over ornamentation.
The Philosophy of Slow and Mindful Making
Central to Tanushree’s practice is a commitment to slow-made work. Each piece is given the time it
Jaali Work and the Beauty of Precision
Among her preferred techniques, jaali work holds special significance. Combining structure with delicacy, it demands unwavering focus, as each irreversible cut must be intentional. The interplay of light and shadow from a candle or lamp within the finished piece adds a quiet, contemplative dimension reflecting patience and precision.
Jewellery Shaped by Travel and Nature
Tanushree’s terracotta jewellery evolves through an intuitive process. Inspired by natural forms and memories from her travels, each piece begins with a simple idea that unfolds during making. Hand-carved and carefully finished, the designs retain an organic quality, reflecting both movement and stillness drawn from landscapes she has traversed.
A Day in the Studio
Life at Tilottama Pottery Studio follows a rhythm as measured as the wheel itself. Days begin with clay preparation and planning, followed by throwing, handbuilding, or jewellery work. Some sessions focus on trimming, finishing, or jaali carving; others on cleaning tools, arranging fired pieces, or preparing for markets and exhibitions. Each day ends with restoring the workspace and setting intentions for the next.
A Changed Way of Seeing
Pottery has reshaped how Tanushree views herself and the world. The practice has cultivated patience, attentiveness, and respect for natural processes. Working with clay has also deepened her awareness of fragility, how, like a vessel, life requires care, balance, and humility to endure.
Looking Toward the Future
hand-shaped terracota earnings
As her journey continues, Tanushree hopes to expand her reach through exhibitions, workshops, and community initiatives that pass on traditional pottery knowledge. She envisions integrating travel with practice, learning from local potters while sharing her techniques. Ultimately, she dreams of establishing a pottery museum, an evolving archive for collective learning and sustained appreciation of the craft.
Yashvardhan Naik
Yashvardhan Keshav Naik is a 21-year-old creative model and dancer, blending fashion, music, and authenticity while pursuing education and aspiring for international opportunities.
Model
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Yashvardhan Naik
Yashvardhan Keshav Naik is a young, emerging creative talent whose journey reflects confidence, versatility, and a deep commitment to selfexpression. At just 21, he is steadily shaping his identity in the fashion and creative industries while staying grounded in personal values, education, and artistic exploration.
Early Life and Personal Foundations
Currently pursuing his T.Y. B.Com degree, Yashvardhan’s formative years have been shaped by a close-knit joint family that emphasized support, positivity, and strong values. He attributes much of his emotional strength and confidence to this upbringing, drawing inspiration from the balance of compassion, discipline, and assurance instilled by his parents and siblings. This foundation has played a crucial role in shaping his outlook toward both life and career.
A Natural Inclination Toward Creativity
From an early age, creativity has been central to Yashvardhan’s identity. Dance, music, and writing form an integral part of his emotional and artistic expression. As a trained contemporary dancer and long-time lead performer, he has developed a strong sense of body awareness and movement. Alongside dance, he has been writing songs and poetry for several years, using music as a medium for reflection, healing, and storytelling.
Entry Into the World of Modeling
Modeling emerged as a natural extension of Yashvardhan’s creative instincts. Drawn to the camera and inspired by runway performances, he found comfort and freedom in the fashion space. Exposure to diverse representations within the industry, across body types, skin tones, and aesthetics, reinforced his belief that authenticity and confidence matter more than conformity. This realization encouraged him to step into modeling independently, guided by self-belief rather than rigid standards.
Yashvardhan Naik
Walking the ramp
Career Highlights and Professional Milestones
Among the defining moments of his modeling journey is his runway appearance for ZEEL Clothing. The experience stood out not only for its highpressure, last-minute nature but also for the collaborative and positive backstage environment. Walking in ZEEL’s raincoat and winter collection ahead of its official launch allowed him to combine adaptability, teamwork, and performance under pressure, elements he considers essential to professional growth.
Another memorable project includes a lifestyle shoot for Holiday Inn, which emphasized authenticity and ease over formality. Shot in a relaxed beach setting, the project highlighted his ability to connect naturally with the camera, reinforcing his affinity for lifestyle modeling rooted in genuine emotion and presence.
Personal Style and Creative Influences
Yashvardhan’s personal style is defined by experimentation and range. He moves comfortably between bold, unconventional looks and refined, classic silhouettes, allowing him to adapt seamlessly to varied creative directions. This versatility reflects his openness as a model and his willingness to evolve visually and conceptually.
He draws inspiration from global figures who have challenged norms through confidence and discipline. The journeys of successful models who have broken stereotypes resonate deeply with him, motivating him to remain focused, consistent, and self-assured in his own path.
Strengths That Set Him Apart
What distinguishes Yashvardhan in the modeling industry is his strong foundation in dance. His understanding of movement enables him to express emotion and narrative through posture, expressions, and transitions rather than static poses.
This emotional connectivity allows him to adapt to diverse themes and creative briefs while maintaining authenticity in front of the camera.
Perspective on Fashion and Cultural Evolution
Yashvardhan is particularly inspired by the growing global appreciation for Indian craftsmanship within contemporary fashion. The integration of traditional Indian textiles, silhouettes, and detailing into international design has strengthened his connection to cultural identity and reinforced his belief in fashion as a medium that bridges heritage with modern expression.
Shoot For Sufi Studio
Discipline, Well-being, and Balance
Recognizing the physical and mental demands of modeling, he prioritizes balance through fitness, skincare, creative outlets, and education. Dance, songwriting, gym routines, and content creation collectively help him stay grounded and focused. Equally important is his emphasis on maintaining close relationships with family and friends, which he considers essential to emotional stability and longterm resilience.
Guidance for Aspiring Models
Yashvardhan views rejection as an inevitable and valuable part of growth. He emphasizes consistency, self-acceptance, and preparation as key pillars for aspiring models. Building confidence through practice, learning from peers, and developing a strong portfolio are, in his view, fundamental steps toward sustainability in the industry.
Looking Ahead
In the coming years, Yashvardhan envisions expanding his career onto international platforms, participating in major runway shows, and engaging in projects that highlight his versatility and personality.
Beyond modeling, he aspires to establish himself as a content creator and release original music, while remaining open to entrepreneurial ventures within the fashion space. Above all, his long-term vision centers on a life driven by creativity, growth, and meaningful experiences.
Yashvardhan Wearing Nirra.co
Raw and clean look
content CREATOR
Anisha Mane
Nurse-turned content creator Anisha Mane builds an authentic digital presence through relatable food, travel, and lifestyle reels, transforming everyday moments into compelling short-form stories that resonate far beyond Goa audiences.
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Anisha Mane
In an era where digital storytelling often leans toward perfection, Anisha Mane stands out for her authenticity. A nurse by profession and a content creator by passion, she brings a refreshing honesty to short-form content, capturing food, travel, and everyday life through a lens that feels both personal and relatable.
With an instinct for visual storytelling and an eye for detail, Anisha has built a strong digital presence by turning real moments into compelling reels that resonate with audiences far beyond Goa.
A Creative Journey Rooted in Authenticity
Anisha represents a new wave of digital storytellers, creators who balance demanding professional lives with an uncompromising passion for creativity. Her journey into content creation began organically, shaped by curiosity, observation, and a natural inclination toward visual expression.
Finding a Voice Through Short-Form Storytelling
Her entry into content creation was never strategic or forced. Creativity had always been a constant in her life, expressed through interests in food, travel, fashion, and lifestyle moments.
Reels became her preferred medium because of their ability to convey stories quickly, visually, and emotionally. Over time, her niche evolved into food, travel, lifestyle, and vlogging, content that feels intimate yet universally relatable.
The Viral Moment That Changed Everything
A defining moment in Anisha’s journey came unexpectedly when a simple reel of her sister trying sushi for the first time went viral, crossing millions of views without deliberate planning. Its genuine reaction and straightforward storytelling struck a chord with viewers.
The experience reinforced her belief that authenticity, when paired with thoughtful presentation, has powerful reach. When re-edited and reposted, the reel went viral again, highlighting the importance of timing and creative refinement.
Travel and Food as Creative Anchors
Among the various formats she creates, travel and food reels remain her strongest creative anchors. Exploring Goa’s hidden cafés, unique stays, and local experiences excites her personally, and that enthusiasm translates seamlessly on screen. For Anisha, content creation is less about performance and more about documenting life through a creative lens.
Anisha Mane
From Observation to Execution: Her Creative Process
Her process is both intuitive and methodical. It begins with research, studying viral reels, hooks, captions, hashtags, and audience engagement patterns. Shooting focuses on natural expressions rather than scripted performances, while editing brings the narrative together through pacing, music, transitions, and precise cuts that sustain viewer attention.
Platforms That Support Visual Storytelling
Instagram and Facebook remain her primary platforms, where short-form content performs best and audience engagement is strongest. Instagram allows her to experiment with hooks and storytelling, while Facebook helps her reach a wider, more diverse audience. YouTube and Snapchat are used selectively, supporting her core platforms rather than replacing them.
Tools, Techniques, and Visual Consistency
To maintain quality and consistency, Anisha uses practical tools such as tripods, selfie stands, and portable lighting.
Her editing workflow includes apps like VN, InShot, CapCut, Lightroom, and Snapseed, enabling smooth transitions, balanced color tones, and a clean yet raw aesthetic that defines her style.
Staying Relevant Without Losing Identity
Trend awareness plays a role in her growth, but selectivity defines her approach. She gravitates toward trends that reflect real emotions, daily struggles, mood-driven food content, or motivational storytelling, while consciously avoiding formats that feel forced or misaligned with her personality.
Building Community Through Meaningful Engagement
Anisha prioritizes genuine interaction with her audience, actively responding to comments and messages while filtering out negativity.
Audience feedback often guides future content ideas, helping her refine storytelling approaches and revisit themes that resonate most.
Balancing a Demanding Profession with Creativity
Time management remains one of her biggest challenges, as she balances full-time nursing with content creation. Discipline and planning are essential, yet her passion ensures that creativity never feels compromised, even within limited time frames.
Growth Fueled by Relatability and Consistency
Her most significant viral phase saw her reels reach over 13.7 million views, with nearly 8 million accounts reached within 30 days. This surge reinforced her understanding of the value of consistency, presentation, and relatability in driving sustainable growth.
Looking Ahead: Showcasing Goa to the World
Looking forward, Anisha aims to further spotlight Goa’s food culture, hidden gems, local experiences, and lifestyle for a global audience. By refining her storytelling, exploring cinematic visuals, and collaborating with brands and tourism platforms, she plans to evolve creatively while staying rooted in authenticity.
Anisha Mane
Aryan Jagdish Bhobe
Aryan Jagdish Bhobe, FC Goa’s official Team Photographer and visual storyteller, captures football’s raw emotion and intensity, evolving from devoted fan to pitchside chronicler through passion, instinct, and persistence.
Sports Photographer
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Aryan Jagdish Bhobe
Aryan Jagdish Bhobe’s journey with FC Goa is a story rooted in passion, persistence, and timing. Like countless supporters, he began as a fan during his early teens, following the club since 2014. What sets his story apart is the leap from the stands to the sidelines. Straight out of college, with no advertised openings and a season still months away, Aryan took a chance by directly reaching out to the club through an email found on its website. That single step led to a marketing internship, and within six months, a permanent role. Today, at just 23, he serves as FC Goa’s Content Producer and the official Team Photographer across competitions.
The Role Behind the Lens
As the team photographer, Aryan’s responsibility extends far beyond clicking pictures. On matchdays, his task is to document the entire narrative of the event in high resolution. From fan reactions and stadium atmosphere to match action, celebrations, and raw emotion, his camera captures moments that define the club’s digital identity. Speed is critical. Images must be selected and shared swiftly with the digital media team, ensuring real-time storytelling across platforms despite challenges such as network congestion in packed stadiums.
Capturing Emotion and Intensity
Aryan’s photographic style leans strongly toward experimentation. He approaches every match as a canvas filled with unpredictable moments. Whether it is a last-ditch tackle, a goal celebration, or a superfan dancing in the stands, his focus remains on timing and anticipation. For him, emotion is captured in split seconds, the precise instant when intensity peaks. Fans, in particular, play a central role in his work, as he views them as the emotional engine driving everything that unfolds on the pitch.
A Full-Circle Transition
The shift from marketing intern to photographer marked a significant change in perspective. Earlier, Aryan worked behind the scenes, receiving assets and covering matches from media seating. Today, he operates at the edge of the pitch, emotionally and physically closer to the game. This proximity has deepened his connection with the team, mirroring the intensity felt by players and staff on matchdays.
Working Under Pressure
Delivering real-time visuals comes with its own set of challenges. Network disruptions caused by stadium jammers and heavy crowds can slow down the transfer of images.
From Fan to the Heart of the Action
Aryan Bhobe on duty for FC Goa
Aryan Bhobe
Aryan Bhobe
Aryan addresses this by prioritizing and selecting key images instantly, streamlining the workflow so that crucial moments reach audiences without delay. His approach reflects adaptability, an essential trait in live sports environments.
Creativity, Speed, and Instinct
Balancing creativity with accuracy is one of the most demanding aspects of sports photography. Football offers no second chances. Every moment happens once. Aryan remains switched on for the entire 90 minutes, relying on instinct and game awareness to anticipate actions before they unfold. Trusting this intuition allows him to freeze decisive moments that define matches.
Football Photography in the Digital Era
Aryan has witnessed firsthand how football photography has evolved with technology. Modern gear offers higher resolutions, faster shutter speeds, superior low-light performance, and advanced autofocus systems. Long-range lenses now allow photographers to capture goalkeepers positioned over 100 yards away. These advancements have transformed workflows, enabling photographers to capture, edit, and publish images within minutes.
FC Goa’s Visual Identity
What sets FC Goa apart visually is its strong and consistent digital identity. The club’s vibrant orange jerseys and contrasting blue training kits create a distinctive color palette across platforms. Beyond football action, the club places emphasis on storytelling, highlighting fans, supporter groups, and voices from players’ families. Aryan’s work plays a crucial role in translating this philosophy into compelling visual narratives.
International Exposure and Professional Growth
Covering international fixtures, particularly matches against Al Nassr, stands out as a defining chapter in Aryan’s career. Photographing global stars like Sadio Mané, João Félix, and Marcelo Brozović at Al Awwal Park was both surreal and instructive. These experiences demanded heightened focus and
professionalism, pushing him to set aside personal awe and perform under intense conditions unfamiliar to domestic football.
A Defining Frame
Among countless images, one photograph holds special significance for Aryan. The celebration shot of Dejan Dražić’s chipped goal against Al Seeb, captured with the defeated goalkeeper in the frame, remains his most cherished work. The image encapsulated drama, emotion, and storytelling in a single frame, leaving a lasting impact on him to this day.
Motivation Through Collective Effort
Long and demanding seasons require sustained motivation. Aryan draws inspiration not only from players but from the entire ecosystem behind the team. Media personnel, kit staff, team managers, and operations crews all contribute relentlessly. Observing this collective commitment fuels his own drive to perform at the highest level throughout the season.
Lessons from FC Goa
Professionally, FC Goa represents Aryan’s first formal workplace and the foundation of his career. The club taught him teamwork, task prioritization, and organizational discipline. Personally, it introduced him to mentors, colleagues, and friendships that extend beyond professional boundaries. For Aryan, FC Goa is more than an employer; it is a space that nurtured his growth and shaped his identity.
Looking Ahead
Despite his rapid rise, Aryan remains grounded about the future. He chooses not to define longterm destinations, focusing instead on consistency, dedication, and openness to every opportunity. At 23, he views his journey as just beginning, committed to staying true to his craft while continuing to evolve within the industry. Through his lens, Aryan Jagdish Bhobe captures more than football. He frames stories, emotions, and moments that live far beyond the final whistle.
Aryan with FC Goa team
Authored ARTICLE
Goa’s rivers—Mandovi, Zuari, and Chapora—shape its culture, trade, fishing communities, festivals, and tourism, sustaining livelihoods and reflecting the state’s deep connection with water and heritage.
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Article by: Renata Fernandes
Images by: Team ItsGoa
Goa’s beauty does not rest only on its beaches. The state flows with life through its rivers, each carrying stories of trade, culture, and community. The Mandovi, Zuari, and Chapora rivers have shaped the identity of Goa for centuries, supporting fishing villages, hosting festivals, and offering spaces for both work and leisure. These rivers do not simply flow into the Arabian Sea—they flow through Goan life, giving it rhythm and continuity.
The Mandovi: Goa’s Lifeline
The Mandovi River rises in Karnataka and winds its way into Goa before meeting the sea at Panaji. People often call it the “lifeline of Goa” because it nurtures agriculture, trade, and tourism. Centuries ago, the Mandovi carried spice-laden ships, connecting Goa to global markets. Today, it carries cruise boats, ferries, and barges, blending the old with the new. Panaji thrives along its banks, where floating casinos light up the night, and village ferries carry people across with ease.
Zuari: The River of Industry and Abundance
The Zuari River complements the Mandovi, flowing into the Arabian Sea near Vasco da Gama. Historically, it supported fishing and farming communities, while today it plays a key role in Goa’s industrial growth. Iron ore barges glide through its waters, symbolizing Goa’s link to global trade. Yet, amid this industry, villages still depend on the Zuari for fishing and agriculture. Traditional fishermen launch their canoes at dawn, keeping alive age-old practices despite modern competition.Chapora: The River of Charm and Serenity
Chapora: The River of Charm and Serenity
While the Mandovi and Zuari dominate Goa’s central landscape, the Chapora River adds charm to the north. Flowing past villages like Siolim and Morjim, it offers quiet beauty. The famous Chapora Fort, overlooking the river, still recalls Goa’s defense history.
Locals celebrate the river’s calm by fishing, ferrying, and celebrating feasts along its banks. Today, Chapora attracts travelers for its houseboats and sunset views, proving that even smaller rivers hold immense cultural and ecological value.Rivers and Fishing Communities
Rivers and Fishing Communities
Fishing remains at the heart of Goan river life. Communities rise early to set their nets, depending on seasonal rhythms and tidal changes. Women often sell the day’s catch in bustling markets, while men navigate small canoes or motorboats.
These rivers not only sustain livelihoods but also foster a sense of togetherness. Entire villages unite around festivals like Sangodd, where decorated boats honor saints, blending faith and tradition on the water.Trade and Transport Through the Ages.
Trade and Transport Through the Ages
Before modern roads, rivers acted as Goa’s highways. Farmers transported coconuts, rice, and cashews along the Mandovi and Zuari, while merchants shipped spices and timber to faraway lands. Even today, ferries continue this tradition, offering locals and visitors a simple yet beautiful way of crossing. Standing on a ferry deck as it glides across the Mandovi or Zuari feels like stepping into Goa’s timeless rhythm of movement.Festivals and Celebrations.
Festivals and Celebrations
Goa’s rivers also host celebrations that reflect deep cultural bonds. During Sangodd, villagers tie boats together to form floating stages for plays and music, transforming rivers into theatres of faith and art.
Feast days often involve processions along the banks, where colorful decorations and music bring the water to life. These traditions keep rivers not just as resources, but as spiritual companions.
Modern River Tourism
Today, tourism has added new dimensions to river life. Sunset cruises on the Mandovi bring music and dance to the waters, while houseboats on the Chapora offer serene escapes. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and river safaris let travelers explore mangroves and spot dolphins. These experiences not only entertain but also educate visitors about Goa’s delicate river ecosystems.
Protecting Goa’s Rivers
As much as the rivers give, they also need protection. Pollution, sand mining, and unchecked construction threaten their health. Local communities and environmental groups work hard to preserve mangroves, reduce plastic use, and monitor river biodiversity. Goans know that their rivers are not just waterways—they are lifelines that must remain strong for generations to come.
Conclusion
The Mandovi, Zuari, and Chapora together form the veins of Goa. They carry history, sustain communities, and enrich festivals. From trade and transport to culture and tourism, these rivers have written Goa’s story in flowing lines. To stand by their banks is to feel connected to the pulse of the land itself. In every sunrise ferry ride, every fish market, and every festival boat, Goa’s rivers remind us that water is not just nature—it is life in motion.
mirroring Goa’s timeless connection to water
