I grew up in a large family of 10, and we did not have many materialistic possessions. What we had around us growing up were some good, kind people. Giving has always been an important aspect of our family. I believe we are walking testimonies of this as we were Catholics very much dependent on the goodwill of kind people from the church. We believe in giving, and it will never be enough. I come from a family with seven brothers, 2 sisters, and 20 nephews and nieces. Growing up, I played football and climbed trees!

We were poor in material possessions but rich in values embedded by our parents, with whom we shared a strong bond. Over time, even though we were chaotic, we learned to be there for each other and do what we could for society. Giving, sharing, caring and discipline were strictly followed in our home. It is still something we follow to date. I firmly hold values of integrity and honesty. I follow my mum in terms of discipline, who taught me to take my responsibilities seriously.

With our extended family's presence, all of us meet at least a few times a year, which helps to keep our strong bond. In my teen years, I was a loner. The age gap between me and my older siblings was huge. When I started school at 7, my four older siblings had already left home to venture abroad and for work.

One of the toughest times in my life was when my dear friend I was seeing for six years passed away suddenly. I then moved from my hometown and my late sister-in-law gave me emotional support to cope with the loss and became my pillar of strength. She was like my best friend. I joined the Government service for 4 years as an officer with the Ministry of National Unity. A transfer came through back to my hometown and I declined. As I had to take my mind off things and my elder sister Kathy, was doing her degree in Australia at that time I went back to college on a part-time basis moving from education into PR.

My late mum emphasized a lot on education. Both my sisters were always there for me although they were miles away. Knowing I had the support mattered.

I soon began working at a new job in a Non-Profit Organization. This was where I realized that certain people would make you feel inferior to them. They had the upper hand simply because they were rich and had a degree from abroad and emphasized those over and over. As soon as I had enough savings, I secretly decided to take up an MBA. I wanted to be better not for anyone but for myself. I spent all my savings on my course. I juggled work and travel, part-time classes, and studies for almost 4 years. There was no google back then and resources were so limited. But I had a new group of supportive friends, so much more knowledge and understanding towards society and the workforce. Graduating boosted my confidence. I had a new outlook and endorsed myself that I was good enough to earn some respect and gave the same respect to everyone. I could make my own decisions confidently. It was a blessing in disguise. My hard-earned money was worth every cent.

After 22 years heading the Non-profit, I quit in 2020 to pursue my Doctorate and do my own ventures. I am happily juggling many things besides writing. Sometimes I do enjoy the stress all these running around gives me. It tends to keep me on my toes. I do not believe in balancing work and personal life. We have to do what is needed and prioritize. Once committed, I ensure I see the task or commitment through That's responsibility.

I have been an advisor to the Tulips Movement for two years. It’s a non-profit movement. Although it was founded by a man; Badrie, the team currently consists of independent women, who voluntarily inspire and empower women and youth to achieve greater heights and excel in society. I am also the Founding Chairperson for the Health on World Foundation, which advocates mental, emotional, and physical well-being. My co-founder, Dr. Sangeeta is another remarkable women.

If I were given a superpower for one day, I would appoint these strong, brilliant women and empower them to run the country, asking the men to take a backseat for a day. I am confident that one day, they might fire some men and permanently carry on running some important portfolios! Women know what they can bring to the table. We have mastered the soft and the strong. We nurture, we multitask, and can still lead. Thus when you combine the soft and strong with the many qualities - It’s A Win!

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