Goafest stands poised to catalyze transformative action: Shrenik Gandhi

Excitement is building up as the date for India’s biggest advertising festival approaches. This year, Goafest will be held from May 29 to 31, with a major change in venue to Mumbai due to the ongoing Lok Sabhs elections. Being held in India’s financial capital, this year’s Goafest is expected to see a hike in participation by the advertising industry.

In conversation with Adgully, Shrenik Gandhi, Co-founder and CEO, White Rivers Media, shares insights into the significance of the Goafest theme, the venue change, expectations from the event, and more.

In the bustling realm of advertising and marketing, Shrenik Gandhi highlights the significance of ‘Adaptability’ as the prevailing theme of Goafest 2024. With a keen eye on the pulse of the industry, Gandhi affirms, “‘The Age Of Adaptability’ theme at Goafest Abbys 2024 resonates seamlessly with the ever-evolving A&M space in the contemporary times.”

“In a landscape perpetually reshaped by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviours, adaptability emerges not merely as an option, but as a fundamental survival strategy. Embracing new platforms and pioneering groundbreaking strategies become imperative in navigating the dynamic terrain of advertising and media,” he notes.

As anticipation mounts for Goafest 2024, Gandhi shares his expectations, stating, “Adaptability is not just a choice; it’s our lifeline, driving us to embrace new platforms and pioneer groundbreaking strategies.” With the theme serving as a guiding beacon, attendees can anticipate thought-provoking discussions, insightful sessions, and innovative showcases that illuminate the path forward in an ever-evolving landscape. Amidst the convergence of industry stalwarts, emerging talents, and visionary leaders, Goafest stands poised to catalyze meaningful dialogue and inspire transformative action.

On the venue change for Goafest, Gandhi opines, “Relocating Goafest to Mumbai this year is an exciting change that opens new avenues for the festival. While Goa has long been cherished as the festival’s home, the move to Mumbai introduces a fresh perspective and an opportunity to explore untapped potential. Mumbai’s vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its robust industry presence, presents a fertile ground for fostering deeper industry connections and attracting a broader audience. This strategic shift ignites anticipation for a revitalized Goafest experience, infused with the energy and dynamism emblematic of India’s commercial capital.”

While the prospect of Goafest’s relocation to Mumbai brims with promise, Gandhi acknowledges potential apprehensions from sponsors. Yet, he remains optimistic, asserting, “This move offers a fresh perspective and a chance to explore newer possibilities.” Embracing change inevitably entails a degree of uncertainty, but it also presents an opportunity for growth and exploration. By leveraging Mumbai’s rich tapestry of culture, commerce, and creativity, sponsors can unlock new avenues for engagement and forge deeper connections with their target audience.

In navigating the transition to Mumbai, Gandhi reflects on the logistical considerations and the potential impact on participation. “Mumbai’s vibrant atmosphere and dynamic industry presence can inject new energy into the event,” he observes, adding, “While logistical challenges may arise, the allure of Mumbai’s cosmopolitan charm and its status as a hub of innovation and enterprise hold the promise of a higher turnout. As industry stakeholders converge in the bustling metropolis, they converge not only to celebrate excellence, but also to chart a collective course towards a future defined by adaptability, resilience, and creativity.”