Pics by: Wilson D’Souza, Shirva
Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala (TP)
Karkala, Oct 3: “Anyone who has dreams, determination, self-reliance, and self-confidence can become a successful entrepreneur,” said Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of the Udupi Diocese.
Dr Lobo was addressing the annual get-together and Inspiration Awards ceremony of the Karavali Christian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCCI), held at the Community Hall of St Lawrence Basilica, Attur, Karkala, on October 2.
He stressed that every entrepreneur possesses a unique talent. “The state and central governments are providing sufficient financial assistance for entrepreneurship, and one must make use of it to achieve success,” he said.
Highlighting the tendency of many youngsters to look abroad for job opportunities, the Bishop remarked, “India itself has enough employment opportunities for the next 20 years. Only by acquiring relevant education can these opportunities be tapped.”
He also praised KCCCI for its social commitment, noting, “KCCCI has been introducing various programmes to society, and by organising annual job fairs, it has been extending support to youth in search of employment.”
The event was inaugurated by Bishop Hemachandra Kumar of the CSI Karnataka Southern Diocese, who said, “It is easy to start an institution, but leading it successfully is most important. In this regard, KCCCI has been successful, which is commendable. When there is commitment in entrepreneurship, success will surely follow. Our society has many talents, and when these are utilised effectively in business, society also acknowledges it.”
Entrepreneurs and achievers felicitated:
As part of the ceremony, Inspiration Awards were presented in the following categories:
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Entrepreneur of the Year – Francis D’Souza, Palimaru
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Woman Entrepreneur of the Year – Lavita Andrade, Udupi
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Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Arun Sushil Kotian, Subhash Nagar
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Progressive Farmer (Inspiration Award) – Dr Joseph Lobo, Shankarpura
Prior to the awards ceremony, a business information workshop was conducted for existing and aspiring Christian entrepreneurs. The resource persons were Walter Nandalike, founder and editor-in-chief of Daijiworld Media, and JC Soujanya Hegde, entrepreneur, host, and corporate trainer.
Dolphy Mascarenhas, Louis Lobo, Walter Saldanha, and Gerald Fernandes introduced the awardees. On behalf of the recipients, Francis D’Souza and Lavita Andrade shared their thoughts and expressed gratitude.
Jeevan Salins introduced the new members of the organisation, while Wilson D’Souza presented details of the achievers.
The event was presided over by Santosh D’Silva, president of KCCCI. Jitendra Furtado welcomed the gathering, Alwyn Quadros proposed the vote of thanks, Thelma Pinto led the prayer, and Steven Colaco of Udyavara compered the programme.
Also present on the occasion were Fr Alban D’Souza of St Lawrence Minor Basilica, Attur, Alvin Quadros (secretary), Maxim Saldanha (treasurer), and other dignitaries.