Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Cumbarjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai has called on the private sector to become a major source of employment in Goa, aiding the government in addressing the state’s employment challenges.
“Not everyone can get a government job. The private sector must step in and provide opportunities. They also offer good salaries,” Faldessai remarked.
He made these comments at the inauguration of V Luxe, a salon at the Kadamba Plateau, an initiative by Vaishali Somkuwar Mane.
“This salon has not only been beautifully designed but will also provide employment opportunities to at least 10 to 15 people in the constituency. I will request her to consider employing some of our local youngsters,” Faldessai said.
Highlighting the rapid development of the constituency, Faldessai added, “Our constituency is growing and evolving. Kadamba Plateau has become home to many high-profile residents. Earlier, we had to go to Panjim for many services, but now businesses are moving here, making life more convenient.”
Addressing concerns about outsiders taking up jobs in Goa, Faldessai acknowledged that while certain jobs require external expertise, the majority of employment opportunities still go to locals.
“You see, companies sometimes hire employees from outside because there isn’t enough trained or skilled manpower available here. However, these professionals come in, train our local youth, and in most industries, you’ll find that 70-80% of the workforce consists of Goans,” he stated.
“We have raised this matter with the Chief Minister and also discussed it in the Legislative Assembly. But for locals to be trained, we do require experts from outside who have the necessary technical know-how,” he added.
Luxury Beauty Care at Affordable Prices
Speaking at the event, Vaishali Somkuwar Mane shared her vision of bringing luxury body care at affordable rates.
“Here, we offer a wide range of services, including hair, makeup, and skincare. I have gathered the best products and techniques from Singapore and Korea. Having spent over 15 years in the beauty industry in Singapore, this is my first venture in India,” she said.
“My aim is to make luxury beauty services accessible to everyone. If you go to any high-end salon, facials can cost anywhere between ₹8,000 and ₹20,000. But at V Luxe, we will provide the same quality at standard Indian rates,” she assured.
“I am not catering only to a niche clientele—everyone deserves luxury at an affordable price,” she added.
A Multifaceted Journey
Vaishali Somkuwar Mane has built a multifaceted career spanning banking, fashion, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. She began her professional journey as a banker at Barclays Bank before embracing a life at sea, traveling for eight years with her husband. They later settled in Singapore, where they raised their now 12-year-old son.
Venturing into modeling, Vaishali achieved remarkable success, earning titles such as Mrs. Singapore 2019 and Mariners Diva 2019. She also explored acting, completed short films, and earned a diploma in makeup. Her expertise led her to work on notable Singaporean shows like the NDP Chi Gay Parade and mentor future pageant contestants. Additionally, she established herself as a choreographer and mentor to aspiring models.
As a motivational speaker, Vaishali has inspired students at various institutes and universities. Her philanthropic efforts, particularly her dedication to supporting old age homes and orphanages, have earned her prestigious honors, including the Bharat Youth Icon Award, recognition from HDFC, and the Inspire Woman’s Award, among others.
Driven by her passion for fashion, Vaishali founded ALLAZO, a company specializing in fashion events, modeling, and a clothing brand, and opened a boutique in New Mumbai. She has successfully organized shows in India and gained recognition for her work in the industry.
Her continuous commitment to philanthropy and community service, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has solidified her reputation as a neighborhood hero. Now, she has expanded her entrepreneurial journey into the hospitality industry, continuing to make an impact across various sectors.
Reflecting on her journey, she said, “If you have a dream, don’t just sit there. Gather the courage to believe in yourself, take action, and leave no stone unturned to make it a reality.”
With a background in Sociology (Honors) and a Master’s in Marketing, Vaishali initially built a successful career in the banking industry. However, the constraints of a traditional 9-to-5 job did not fulfill her creative aspirations.
Determined to follow her passion, she trained herself in various fields and built a thriving career in beauty, fashion, and personal development.
