In the world of social media, memes are more than just entertainment—they shape conversations, bring people together, and reflect everyday life in the most relatable way. One Goan creator who has mastered this art is Akshay Amrut Volvoiker. A full-time fountain of creativity and Computer Engineer by profession, Akshay also runs the popular Instagram page @goa.say.memes. His content has struck a chord with thousands, blending humour with local culture and lifestyle. In this interview, he shares his journey, insights on content creation, and future aspirations.
The beginning
My online journey started back in 2016 when I was in college. I used to make memes about my friends, mostly inside jokes, and share them on my personal account and WhatsApp. That’s when I realised I had a knack for creating funny and relatable content. I then started making memes about everyday life, and they quickly gained traction.
I named my page '@goa.say.memes' (which means 'memes from Goa') to give it a strong local identity. Over time, I expanded beyond memes, sharing lifestyle content as well. It has been a fulfilling 10-year journey of experimenting, learning, and growing.
Building a brand
The name ‘Goa Say’ connects the page to the State while allowing room to branch out into different categories. While @goa.say.memes is focused on humour and pop culture, I also run @goa.say.boatride, which offers curated boat tours. These experiences go beyond just sightseeing—we educate visitors about local ecology, flora, and fauna, creating a deeper connection with nature. Having a versatile name was key to this vision.
Expanding skills and creativity
I have always been a creative person, and I love trying new things. I can’t limit myself to just one area. Everything you see on my page—from shooting to editing—I’ve taught myself. Today’s software tools are user-friendly, making it easier for anyone to create content with a bit of practice and dedication.
Balancing work and
content creation
Alongside running my page, I also work in a US-based MNC. My schedule is packed, but good time management helps me stay on top of things. I plan my work efficiently so I can complete my daily tasks. Over time, I’ve become quicker at creating content, but the real challenge lies in the creative process—coming up with fresh ideas takes time.
Staying original
Many content creators in Goa tried copying trends from outside, and while that might bring short-term success, it doesn’t last. To sustain in the long run, originality is key. It takes time to build an audience with unique content, but it’s worth it. I’ve always believed in doing things my own way, and that approach has worked well for me.
Brand collaborations
I use my platform to promote various brands in categories like travel, food, and experiences. However, I have set boundaries—I do not promote products linked to vices like casinos or alcohol. My goal is to endorse brands I genuinely use and believe in, keeping my page authentic and trustworthy.
Handling competition
The rise of new content creators doesn’t worry me; in fact, I welcome it. More creators mean more creativity, which benefits the entire ecosystem. Platforms evolve—when I started, Facebook was the most popular, but now Instagram dominates. In the future, something else might take over. My skills are adaptable, so I’m confident I can keep up with these changes.
Looking ahead
I don’t want a predictable future. I want to keep exploring new ideas and doing things that surprise even me. The best part about content creation is the endless possibilities, and that’s exactly how I want my journey to be—unlimited and unexpected.
