‘Youth Aspire’, a career-oriented program organized by the Diocesan Youth Centre (DYC-Goa), was held on the 30th and 31st of August 2025 at the St. John Paul II Complex, Margao. The event sought to give youngsters an insight into the farming scenario in Goa and introduce them to new opportunities, and was attended by 45 youngsters across Goa. The overnight program featured Eucharistic Celebration, prayer and fellowship, input sessions, games, and more, which was crafted under the guidance of Fr. Blaise Lobo, Director of DYC-GOA. Miss Estella Pires, Agripreneur and Agriculture Consultant, shared her journey, introduced the basics of farming, and dispelled common myths about the field. Mr. Miguel Braganza, former Agriculture Officer, highlighted various types of sustainable and profitable farming that youth can pursue. Mr. Vandit Naik, proprietor of RasRaj Farms Goa, spoke about the business and marketing dimensions of farming. The participants also took a psychometric test, conducted by Mrs. Andrea D’Souza, Assistant Professor in Psychology, to assess aptitudes and career inclinations of the participants. A key highlight was the field trip to KOCL Farm, managed by Mr. Laban D’Souza and Mr. Kevin D’Souza, where participants toured the farm, learned the importance of different trees and plants, and had a hands-on session on grafting. The participants thoroughly enjoyed the program, valued the unique learning experience, and appreciated the planning and execution by the Executive Committee of the Diocesan Youth Centre.
