Mumbai: Goafest 2026 returns with GoaFresh, its flagship initiative dedicated to discovering, engaging, and empowering the brightest young minds from leading institutes across India. Now in its second year, GoaFresh strengthens its role as a bridge between academia and the advertising, media, and marketing industry — offering students a one-of-a-kind opportunity to directly engage with industry leaders and gain first-hand exposure to the ecosystem.
Building on a strong debut, GoaFresh 2026 sees significantly expanded participation from premier institutions across the country, including the Indian Institute of Management (Ahmedabad, Calcutta & Kozhikode), S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mudra Institute of Communications Ahmedabad (MICA), Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Whistling Woods International, MET Institute of Mass Media, Loyola College, and Xavier Institute of Communications, among others.
The initiative aims to give 50 of the brightest emerging talents an immersive experience at Goafest — positioning them not as spectators, but as active participants in one of India’s most prominent platforms for creativity and collaboration.
Rohit Ohri, Founder, Ohriginal & Advisor Committee at Goafest, said, “GoaFresh is our way of throwing open the doors of the industry to the next generation. It’s not just an orientation, it’s an invitation. An invitation to young, curious minds to see the power of creativity up close, to meet the people shaping the business, and to imagine the roles they could play in it. As a novel AAAI initiative, GoaFresh is about igniting young ambition, unlocking new perspectives, and building a pipeline of talent that reflects the future we want to create.”
Gokul Krishnamoorthy, Independent Content Consultant handling student outreach for GoaFresh at Goafest, said, “GoaFresh launched last year with students from four reputed institutions. Our aim this year is to get 50 of the brightest young minds who will join the ad-media-marketing universe and give them an immersive exposure to our world. And who better to help us choose them than the faculty grooming them? We have expanded the net and have received student nominations from leading B and C-schools including IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Calcutta, SPJIMR, MICA and SIMC, with several more in the pipeline. The future looks promising.”
Rohan Chincholi, Chief Digital Officer, Havas Media India & Student Facilitator GoaFresh, added, “GoaFresh is a platform where the industry gives back, nurturing the next generation of marketers, media professionals, and creative talent. While Goafest brings the ecosystem together, GoaFresh ensures young minds are not just spectators but active participants. Our aim is to give students meaningful exposure by enabling them to meet, interact, and learn from top minds across agencies, platforms, and leading brands. These interactions go beyond inspiration, helping students understand the landscape and make more informed career choices.”
By bringing fresh perspectives, bold ideas, and youthful energy into the heart of Goafest, GoaFresh reinforces the industry’s commitment to building a stronger, future-ready talent ecosystem. The initiative serves as a meaningful launchpad — building visibility and confidence among students while offering them a strong entry point into the industry.
Goafest 2026 is set to take place on May 20, 21, and 22, 2026, at Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, continuing to serve as a platform that sparks innovation, collaboration, and creative excellence across India’s marketing and communications industry.
