Vikas Chawla is The Outstanding Leader of the Year at the FICCI Young Leadership Awards 2024

Chennai, India – Thursday, 14th November 2024 — Social Beat announced today that Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, has been recognized as The Outstanding Leader of the Year for 2024 by the FICCI Young Leadership Awards 2024 jury. This is in acknowledgment of Vikas’s exceptional leadership, dedication, and transformative impact in the digital marketing space.

Vikas Chawla simultaneously manages three successful agencies—Social Beat, Influencer.in, and D2Scale—with a collective team of over 300 members. Under his exemplary leadership, the agencies have thrived, despite challenges and hurdles, delivering consistent growth and success for a wide array of clients.

Vikas Chawla- Outstanding Leader of the Year

Reflecting on his experience over the last decade, Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, of Social Beat said,“Leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about being present. You don’t need to have all the answers, having confidence in your team makes a world of difference. Every step—from making tough decisions to navigating sleepless nights—demands resilience, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment. My role is to support the team, inspire them, and foster a collaborative environment that enables collective success.”

This achievement celebrates Vikas’s leading by example and cultivating an environment where each team member can thrive. He has consistently driven results and positively impacted clients and colleagues by fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, creativity, and teamwork.

About Social Beat:

Founded in 2012, Social Beat is a digital growth partner, enabling brands to rise to the impossible. They drive business outcomes with a 300+ strong team of digital experts across Bengaluru, Mumbai, NCR, and Chennai. They are India’s fastest-growing independent digital marketing solutions company and manage 4% of digital media investment in India.

Social Beat is a Google Premier Partner, and Meta Business Partner and works closely with ecosystem partners like Amazon, Hotstar, Salesforce & LinkedIn. D2Scale is their center of excellence for commerce & omni channels brands to drive growth via D2C & Marketplaces. Influencer.in is their creator economy product driving discovery and real-time reporting of impactful influencer marketing campaigns.

They work as extended growth teams with leading brands like Bharat Matrimony, Adani Wilmar, Jaquar, Indian Terrain, Samsonite, Mankind Pharma, Kalpataru Group, Go Colors, Mahindra Finance, JK Cement, Sundaram Mutual, Khazana Jewellery and with hyperscaling startups including boAt, Niyo, Gamezy, A23 Games, EaseMyTrip, Kapiva, Drools and Sukoon Health on driving business outcomes through a combination of creativity and performance.

Commercial Integration – Reshaping India’s Residential Landscape

By  – Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

Akash Pharande, Managing Director - Pharande Spaces

One important feature changing how people live and work in India’s fast-urbanizing terrain is the incorporation of commercial areas into residential townships. While this concept – which combines residential areas with workplaces, shops, and recreational areas – is not new, its uptake has sped up recently, particularly in the wake of COVID-19.

Evolution and Origins

Mixed-use projects are nothing new to India; even in pre-independence India, residential areas and bazaars coexisted together. But in the early 2000s, integrated townships, as they are now known, started to take off. Encouraged by India’s economic expansion and rapid urbanization, developers realized the benefits of creating an all-encompassing residential experience for the growing middle class.

This trend became even more evident after the 2008 financial crisis. This is when forward-thinking builders began to seek out ways to make projects more profitable and desirable. Including residential and commercial areas into one complex promised to boost footfall in retail malls by providing a captive market for retailers. Office buildings within the same precincts gave homeowners the possibility of walking, bicycling to work, or taking a short drive there with no traffic woes to contend with.

The COVID-19 epidemic kicked off a major move towards remote work, less crowded residential areas with sufficient greenery, the convenience and safety of having necessary retail outlets within easy reach, and small commutes to work. In short, the pandemic solidified the already strong attraction for integrated townships.

integrated township

The Coworking Revolutions

Residential-commercial complexes like integrated townships are becoming all the more relevant because of the increasing popularity of coworking. If we take Pune as an example, the relevance and impact of coworking is hard to miss.

This city has evolved massively from its previous tags of ‘Oxford of the East‘ and ‘Pensioner’s Paradise’. Pune’s vibrant educational institutions and IT/ITeS sector generate and attract more and more young professionals and millennial entrepreneurs. Simultaneously, even some of the biggest MNCs in Pune have been looking at cutting costs after COVID-19.

Coworking spaces are the logical solution to bring down corporate costs and provide a fertile environment for collaboration, networking, and creative engagement. The most successful ones are located in and around residential catchments, so their availability in integrated townships is a win-win proposition.

Pune has been seeing steady growth in the coworking segment, with more operators of varying sizes constantly entering the fray. Especially after COVID-19, the coworking solution has found favour with many companies as well as the city’s growing young population. Pune’s thriving startup culture has contributed hugely to its growing popularity, as have the gig economy and service-based companies such as digital marketing, automobiles, and blockchain.

Not surprisingly, leading property consultants reported that 2021 saw a no less than 30% increase in demand for integrated townships over the same period the year before. Where work-from-home (WFH) has become ingrained, especially in metros and tier-1 cities, this rise is significant. Compared to exclusively residential projects, mixed-use townships have seen higher residential sales following the epidemic.

work-life 2.0

Integrated commercial-residential townships are growing in popularity in India because of:

Work-Life Balance: Integrated townships encourage a healthy it by merging living and recreational areas, and minimizing travel time to and from work. This is something that the modern workforce appreciates more and more.

A Sustainable Lifestyle: Sustainable living is becoming more and more important to urban Indians. Mixed-use townships lessen the need for driving and therefore have a lower carbon footprint overall. The more modern integrated townships also offer advanced green features such as wastewater recycling, use of solar lighting and heating, green areas to act as lung space, and proper cross-ventilation in flats to reduce cooling costs in summer.

Profitability for Developers: Integrated townships with commercial components baked in are a lucrative proposition for developers. The added appeal and convenience factor of these projects usually makes them more expensive than ordinary residential projects; however, Indians today are willing to spend more on a sustainable, convenient, and hassle-free lifestyle. Also, there is considerable brand value involved in creating and sustaining modern integrated townships, since such projects require specialized knowledge and considerable capital to build and maintain.

Policy Support: Integrated townships are encouraged and promoted by Indian government programs like the Smart Cities Mission, and sustainability factors are also incentivized for both homebuyers and developers. Mixed-use integrated projects in suburban areas are also actively encouraged by the government because they help decongest urban areas.

Buyer Preferences: The pandemic changed consumer preferences considerably. More and more Indians are choosing to live in spacious, uncluttered, and health-promoting projects that provide quick access to workplaces and the requirements of daily living. Mixed-use integrated townships negate most of the stresses and health hazards of inner-city life. They are also ideal for remote working scenarios.

The Future of Mixed-use Townships

The trend of developing residential- and commercial projects is not only a durable one but the very call of the future in India. Companies’ growing acceptance of remote working arrangements will increase demand for residential developments that meet professional requirements even more. Moreover, the continuous urbanization and increasing disposable incomes in India point to a long-term interest in these kinds of living arrangements.

The boundaries dividing residential and commercial areas are blurring as urban India develops. More than just a real estate fad, integrated townships are the logical answer to the evolving demands and lifestyles of contemporary Indian society. Their increasing popularity is bringing about a profound change in urban planning and development—a move toward a more comfortable, sustainable, convenient, and all-encompassing residential experience.

About the Author: Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in West Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in West Pune. With the recent integration of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience.

Shreyas Webmedia Solutions Revolutionizing Online Media Coverage Services

In today’s digital age, establishing a robust online presence is crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in the competitive market landscape. As consumers increasingly rely on the internet for information and entertainment, companies need to adapt their marketing strategies to effectively reach their target audience. Recognizing this need, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions emerges as a pioneering force, offering comprehensive online media coverage services tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern businesses.

Founded on the principles of innovation and excellence, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has swiftly risen to prominence as a trusted provider of digital marketing solutions. With a team of seasoned professionals possessing a wealth of expertise in the realm of online media, the company is dedicated to helping clients amplify their brand visibility and engagement across various digital platforms.

At the core of Shreyas Webmedia Solutions’ offerings lies its cutting-edge online media coverage services. Leveraging a potent combination of creativity, strategic planning, and technological prowess, the company crafts bespoke media campaigns designed to resonate with target audiences and drive tangible results. Whether it’s generating buzz around a product launch, managing online reputation, or fostering meaningful interactions with customers, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions employs a multifaceted approach to deliver impactful outcomes for its clients.

One of the key strengths of Shreyas Webmedia Solutions is its versatility in catering to businesses of all sizes and across diverse industries. Whether you’re a burgeoning startup looking to carve out your niche or an established enterprise seeking to maintain relevance in the digital sphere, the company offers tailored solutions to suit your specific objectives and budgetary constraints. From social media management and content creation to search engine optimization and influencer marketing, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions provides a comprehensive suite of services aimed at elevating your brand’s online presence and driving sustained growth.

Furthermore, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions distinguishes itself through its unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and measurable results. By employing a data-driven approach and utilizing advanced analytics tools, the company ensures that every campaign is meticulously tracked, analyzed, and optimized for maximum efficacy. This emphasis on transparency and accountability not only fosters trust and confidence among clients but also enables Shreyas Webmedia Solutions to continuously refine its strategies and stay ahead of evolving market trends.

In addition to its dedication to delivering exceptional results, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions places a strong emphasis on fostering long-term partnerships with its clients. By providing ongoing support, strategic guidance, and personalized attention, the company seeks to empower businesses to navigate the complex digital landscape with confidence and achieve sustained success in their online endeavors.

In conclusion, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions stands at the forefront of the digital marketing industry, offering innovative online media coverage services that empower businesses to thrive in the digital age. With its unwavering commitment to excellence, versatility, and client-centric approach, the company is poised to redefine the way brands connect with their audience and drive meaningful engagement in an increasingly interconnected world. Whether you’re embarking on a new venture or seeking to elevate your existing digital presence, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions is your trusted partner for all your online media needs.

DSC Hosts 28th Annual Convocation, unveils ‘Maverick of the Year’ Award

New Delhi, April 24th, 2024: The Delhi School of Communication (DSC) hosted its 28th Annual Convocation ceremony, today, at Alliance Francaise, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi. The event marked the culmination of the two-year Post Graduate Diploma Programme in Communication (PGDPC) for Batch XXVIII, celebrating the student’s academic achievements and their transition into professional life. The convocation ceremony witnessed the presence of esteemed guests, including Mr. Amit Mishra, CEO of MSL South Asia, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Chetan Mahajan, Founder & CEO, of The Mavericks was the Guest of Honor.

In a significant move, DSC unveiled the ‘Maverick of the Year Award,’ a new accolade instituted by The Mavericks, a leading communications firm, to identify and celebrate individuals who have demonstrated remarkable proficiency in harnessing the power of communication. The award seeks to honor the best performer based on various parameters of excellence, including academic performance, internships, projects, presentations, overall discipline, and interpersonal skills.

Convocation 12

Mr. Chetan Mahajan expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “DSC has been at the forefront of breeding integrated thinking and blended communications approaches in its pedagogy. At Mavericks, we believe in true integration to build, grow, and sustain brand reputation. It is an absolute honour and privilege to partner with DSC in further fostering the culture of integration by strengthening the link between theory and practice and an orientation that will allow the students to future-proof their careers.”

He added, “Be overprepared for every opportunity that comes your way. Take your own path —- Be a Maverick!”.

The prestigious award entails a cash prize of Rs. 75,000, accompanied by a Certificate of Merit and an offer to join The Mavericks. It provides an exceptional opportunity for the recipient to further their professional journey.

Prof. Ramola Kumar, Dean of DSC, emphasized the institution’s dedication to exploring cutting-edge avenues of communication. “At DSC we navigate the complexities of the modern world, and we realize that it’s imperative for us to explore unconventional means of interaction and teaching technology. Communication has evolved today and represents a fascinating frontier in human connection, and we believe it deserves recognition and celebration,” she said.

During the event, graduating students were awarded certificates and recognized with various accolades, including medals and subject-specific awards.

The prestigious bronze medal went to Rwitika Ghosh, the silver medal was awarded to Rainee Kaur, and the gold was bagged by Mahek Sheikh. The Surojit Lahiri Memorial Award for Holistic Excellence went to Atharva Sardeshpande.

As DSC’s Batch XXVIII embarks on their professional journeys, the institution continues its tradition of securing placements for its graduates in premier marketing, digital marketing, media management, research, PR, and advertising agencies, further solidifying its reputation as a breeding ground for talent in the communications industry.