A Creative Pandemic

The impact that a few months has had on the lives of people globally is evident in the masks that people wear, and other changes that were implemented by authorities worldwide. People who were used to working in offices, and indulging in other chores were taken by surprise as a virus wreaked havoc on the world globally causing lockdowns, and several other changes which is rapidly becoming the new normal.

 

As ‘Covid-19’ brought about dark days on people, and slowly began to dictate decisions, two sets of choices surround individuals. They can either take a trip down memory lane and sulk about how things will never be the same, or be proactive during these times. Technology can either be used to inspire or to destroy. 

 

A few people in Goa used the internet to their advantage, and started a wonderful initiative on Instagram called ‘unheardstoriesofgoa’ which told the stories of budding talents across Goa. This page drew inspiration from Instagram pages like ‘humansofbombay’, ‘humansofnewyork’ and others. The creators of this initiative were so passionate about the idea that they compiled the names of subjects whom they could interview. Though they embarked on a creative journey on Instagram, they are humble enough to trust God during the challenges that they encounter. 

 

The logo of 'unheardstoriesofgoa'

Goa is filled with brave individuals who use technology to thrive, one such brave warrior is Swati P. Shenai Salgaonkar who continues to inspire many with her skills as a crocheter, despite being a hearing impaired person who had to discontinue her education after 12th Std.  Being trained under the talented teachers of Sanjay School since 2006

 

Swati's business card

She also found a helping hand in the form of her aunt. She further refined her skill through extensive training with her friend who was an expert in designing crochets, along with Youtube tutorials. Gradually as she worked on her designs and posted it on her Facebook wall, an interested party volunteered to help her out. From a mere hobby to a source of livelihood, Swati’s Facebook page ‘Swati’s Artworld’ enables her to share designs which never cease to impress people.

A  glimpse of Swati's crochets