Look Within and Reclaim Your Light

By Jacqueline Koloski

(https://www.connectingwithjacqueline.com)

Whenever you give your power to something outside of yourself, you disconnect from your truth. Your energy moves outward instead of inward. But when you turn your attention back to your inner world, that sacred space within, where you reconnect with the real you. It’s there that you’ll rediscover the magic, the beauty, the love, the kindness, the joy, and the happiness you seek.

We are living through extraordinary times. Times of change, challenge, and profound awakening. Beneath the turbulence lies a quiet opportunity,  to create a new world. A world born from love, kindness, compassion, and soul growth. This is a time for courage to look within and truly see ourselves, perhaps for the very first time. Deep within each of us lives a knowing, ancient and wise,  that we’ve often avoided. It’s the part we’ve hidden away, lifetime after lifetime, only allowing glimpses of it to surface. But what if now is the time to finally return home to that place within you? To open the door, to meet yourself there and to remember who you truly are?

I’d love to share an excerpt from my book in progress, written during a time of deep transformation in my own life:

When she believed she had nothing left, she looked within and there it was, a tiny spark flickering softly. Curiosity drew her closer. She felt the urge to breathe life into it, to give it focus. Though exhaustion weighed heavy, she knew that if she wanted that spark to grow, she had to nourish it. As she breathed deeply, gratitude filled her heart for those who had held her through her pain. The spark began to glow, expanding into hope, strength, determination, and a quiet knowing that she could rise again. Even in her darkest moments, she knew she would.

That spark lives within all of us. It’s time to get curious about yours, to nurture it, feed it, and allow it to guide you forward. You may not know exactly what it is yet, but by listening to the whispers of your soul, it will reveal itself.

For me, being me is about the daily rituals that reconnect me, to myself and to others. Sometimes it’s as simple as a smile, a hug, or a kind word that shifts the energy of a moment. Other times, it’s tending to my own wellbeing, resting, moving, or breathing consciously. These small acts ripple outward, inspiring others to do the same. Real transformation begins in simplicity.

Now is the time to remember that you have so much more within you, more love to give, more light to share, more purpose to live. You may feel tired or uncertain about whether peace and change are truly possible in this world. But they are. Every time you reconnect to your light, you contribute to the healing of the whole.

So take time to rest. Nurture your body, your heart, your soul. Look within and find that tiny spark waiting for you. Breathe life into it and watch it grow brighter, steadier, stronger,  radiating out for all to see and feel. Imagine if more of us did this. What could we create together?

Many people ask me, “But how do I begin?”

It’s simple — though not always easy. Start with one small act of connection. Try this heart connection meditation to get you started. 

Heart Connection

Use this when you feel disconnected, distracted, or in need of love. It’s a gentle way to return home to your heart. 

Place your left hand over your belly button.

Place your right hand over your heart.

Take a slow, deep breath in then release it fully.

Feel your body soften.

Be present with what arises – emotions, sensations, words.

Continue breathing until you feel calm.

When ready, open your eyes and write down any insights or feelings.

Pay attention to how you are feeling. You can use this at anytime during the day. 

Affirmations

What we focus on expands. Affirmations help retrain your mind to see possibility and beauty. Here are some to begin with:

Today I will let life flow and trust that it brings me all that I desire.

Today I choose actions that empower and inspire me to create a life I love.

Today I will look at myself with kindness and gratitude for all that I am.

Today I release what no longer serves me, knowing that change is a sacred part of growth.

These simple tools are powerful gateways to self-awareness and transformation. There are many others, but these practices can help you start reconnecting now, in this moment.

Make time for you and reconnect within to that beautiful space in your heart that will always bring you back to you. 

In a time when everything competes for our attention, the way we channel our focus shapes not only our thoughts but the reality we experience. Every conversation, every emotion, and every choice is energy in motion. When we make it a habit to talk more about our blessings than our burdens, we aren’t denying life’s challenges, we are consciously choosing to magnify the good. Gratitude isn’t just a mindset; it’s a magnet. The more we acknowledge the beauty and abundance already present in our lives, the more the Universe responds with even greater blessings.

It’s easy to get drawn into negativity, the chaos of social media, the drama of comparison, or the endless loop of “what’s not working.” But discipline lies in knowing when to close that window. The triggers might seem captivating, but they drain the very energy you need to grow. Protecting your peace is not avoidance; it’s wisdom. When you choose what to entertain, you choose what to amplify. And the truth is simple yet powerful: where focus goes, energy flows. The more you align your attention with gratitude, growth, and grace, the more your life begins to reflect that same radiant energy back to you.

Think of it this way, two people can experience the same rainy day, yet one sees a gloomy inconvenience while the other sees a chance to slow down, sip hot coffee, and enjoy the sound of nature’s rhythm. The situation is identical, but the focus changes everything. Similarly, when faced with setbacks, those who dwell on the loss often stay stuck, while those who look for the lesson rise stronger. Oprah Winfrey once said, “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” Every time you shift your attention from what drains you to what drives you, you reclaim your power. Positivity isn’t pretending everything’s perfect, it’s choosing to see the light, even when the clouds haven’t cleared yet.

The International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2025 became a defining moment for India and for women in space as Mission ShakthiSAT, the world’s first all-female lunar mission, took center stage. Led by Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder of Space Kidz India and the visionary behind Mission ShakthiSAT, alongside Sukruti Narayanan, Global Head of Partnerships and Australian Ambassador for the Mission, the team achieved an extraordinary series of diplomatic, academic, and technological milestones that captured global attention.

From forging international partnerships to reshaping the conversation on inclusivity in space, their impact resonated far beyond the conference halls of Sydney.

A Stellar Representation on the Global Stage

Throughout the Congress, Dr. Kesan and Sukruti Narayanan were at the heart of pivotal discussions shaping the future of space exploration. The duo:

• Briefed Hon. Tim Ayres, Australia’s Federal Minister for Science & Technology, on Mission ShakthiSAT’s groundbreaking progress and its global outreach.
• Advocated for stronger India–Australia collaboration in space technology at a bilateral roundtable led by the Chairman of IN-SPACe and the Head of the Australian Space Agency.
• Presented the mission to the Malaysian Minister of Communications, who praised its vision of empowering young girls from rural and underrepresented communities.
• Strengthened global diplomatic ties through engagements with ambassadors from Nepal, Paraguay, France, Bolivia, Colombia, and Australia.

In the scientific arena, Mission ShakthiSAT’s team presented two acclaimed research papers, earning appreciation from international researchers and industry experts. The mission’s CubeSAT and rocket programs drew keen interest from investors and institutions alike, culminating in four major Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with organisations in Australia, the US, France, and the UAE, a monumental leap toward global collaboration.

Applause from Icons and Innovators

The mission’s trailblazing efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Steve Waugh, former Australian cricket captain, personally commended the initiative for its social and educational impact, calling it an inspiring example of how science can drive empowerment. Industry leaders and space-tech CEOs echoed this sentiment, recognising Mission ShakthiSAT as a pioneering model for cultivating future talent in aerospace innovation.

India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Mr. Gopal Bagalay, also lauded the initiative, celebrating it as a symbol of India’s growing leadership in inclusive space exploration.

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Space Kidz India made history as the only women-led organisation in the Indian Pavilion at IAC 2025 — a powerful statement on gender representation in science, technology, and innovation.

“This milestone reinforces our belief that space is not bound by borders — it unites us all,” said Dr. Srimathy Kesan, reflecting on the mission’s journey. “Through Mission ShakthiSAT, thousands of young women are learning that their dreams can truly reach the stars.”

Adding to that vision, Sukruti Narayanan shared, “Bringing community leaders into the SpaceTech dialogue is the only way to make this multi-trillion-dollar industry truly inclusive. My mission is to make Space accessible for all — not just a few — because when communities take part, the cosmos belongs to everyone.”

Empowering the Next Generation

As a proud ambassador of India’s space innovation and women’s empowerment, Sukruti Narayanan continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers. Her leadership has opened extraordinary global pathways, proving that space exploration isn’t just about rockets and research, but also about representation, resilience, and redefining what’s possible.

At Empowered BWB her mission is deeply resonant.

“We take immense pride in Sukruti Narayanan, whose leadership is opening extraordinary global pathways for our communities. We stand with her in making Space accessible for everyone, everywhere.”

Mission ShakthiSAT’s success at IAC 2025 is not just a triumph for India, it’s a triumph for every woman who dares to dream beyond the sky.

By Jacqueline Koloski (https://www.connectingwithjacqueline.com/)

Spring is my favourite season. As it approaches you can feel a shift in the air, a shift in the energy and more movement about. Everything feels like it is coming to life and coming out of hibernation. There’s this sense of fun, joy, adventure and the possibility of new. What will you create? What planning needs to happen to achieve your dreams and goals? 

This is a beautiful time to check in with yourself. What does your body require? What movement does it want? What foods would it like? What do you need to do to shake of your winter coat and start taking action in your life? Allow yourself to ease into this. Give yourself some space to think about your dreams, goals and allow the thoughts to flow about. They will start to take shape as you move through this season. 

Some questions for you to ask around what it is you are desiring to create as your life. Before asking these questions, take a moment to get a journal and pen, sit somewhere quietly and place a hand on your heart and a hand on your belly. Breathe deeply and feel yourself sink deeper within. Take a few deep breathes and then start with one question and breathe into your heart space and wait and see what you receive. Write it down. Be in allowance of what shows up.

What is one dream or goal that you have been wanting but never allowed yourself to have it?

What fills your heart to bursting when you think of it? It could be anything, personal, business or something else? 

What support do you need right now? Allow yourself to receive support from another.

What do you need to let go off? 

What is that one thing that you have been holding onto that is keeping you from taking action on your dreams and goals? 

Is it time to give yourself permission to know that all you desire is possible?

Take small actionable steps each day towards achieving your dreams and goals. Focus on the here and now and be present with yourself and the world around you. As you ease into allow yourself to feel the warmth, the newness, the possibilities and love. Allow it to guide you to grow and know that this fresh abundant time of year is waiting for you. Waiting for you to say yes to all that you know is waiting for you. Trust yourself to know and take action as needed. You have all you need.

Meet our inspiring member Gunjan Jhamb, the co-owner of Vin Realty Group (https://vinrealtygroup.com.au). With a background in education and psychology, Gunjan brings a thoughtful and client-centered approach to real estate. Her deep understanding of human behaviour, combined with exceptional communication, and problem-solving skills, allows her to connect with clients on a personal level.

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to your dream property, or preparing to sell, she ensures every step is smooth, informed, and tailored to your unique goals. Her clients appreciate not just her market expertise, but her genuine care and commitment to making the experience rewarding and stress-free.

We recently enjoyed interviewing her. 

Q. Your background is in education and psychology, how has that shaped your approach to real estate and the way you connect with clients?

A. My educational qualifications and further experience in education and psychology has equipped me with a deep understanding of human behaviour, emotional intelligence, and communication strategies, all of which are essential in helping clients in real estate navigate the complexities of buying or selling property. It helps me guide clients through choices that might otherwise feel overwhelming. 

I recognise when clients may feel overwhelmed or anxious and reframe options to make decisions feel manageable and empowering. By using active listening and rapport-building, I create a safe and trusting environment. This tailored, empathetic approach enhances client satisfaction, smooths transactions, and fosters lasting relationships.

Q. Buying or selling property is often one of the most emotional decisions people make. How do you help clients manage both the practical and emotional sides of the process?

A. It is indeed an emotional decision . I recognise when a client is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain and respond in a way that’s calming and constructive to them. I’m very structured and transparent. I provide clear timelines, offer data-driven insights to help clients make informed decisions. But I always balance that with empathy, acknowledging that behind every transaction is a personal story, whether it’s a growing family, a life transition, or a long-awaited investment.

Q. What inspired you to start VIN Realty Group, and how is your approach different from other real estate businesses in Sydney?

VIN Realty Group was born from a desire to take our experience of working under a respected and trusted real estate brand and build something more personal, more client-focused, and more values-driven. We had the industry knowledge, the proven systems, and the results, but we wanted to create a space where relationships came first and every client felt genuinely supported.

Our approach is different because we don’t treat real estate as just a transaction. We understand that buying or selling a home is often tied to major life changes, and we’re here to guide people through that with clarity, care, and confidence. We take time to understand each client’s story, tailor our communication to their needs, and offer a calm, structured process that helps them feel in control.

We also bring a boutique mindset to everything we do, we are hands-on, responsive, and deeply invested in every outcome. Our clients know they’re not just a number; they’re working with professionals who genuinely care about their goals and wellbeing. That’s what sets VIN Realty Group apart in Sydney’s competitive market.

Q. As someone who values genuine care and stress-free experiences for clients, can you share a success story where your approach made a big difference in someone’s journey?

A. One of our recent clients was a young professional in her early 30s who had been living with her parents while saving for her first home. She was excited but also nervous, this was her first major financial commitment, and she was stepping into full independence. She had a clear idea of what she wanted: a cozy home close to work, with good transport links and a sense of community. But she was overwhelmed by the uncertain real estate market and unsure about the process.

From our first meeting, we focused on making the experience feel calm and empowering. We made sure she felt emotionally supported, checking in regularly.

We collaboratively found the right property for her, we negotiated a fair price and ensured the process was smooth and stress-free. On settlement day, she told us she felt not just proud, but confident that she had truly stepped into the next chapter of her life. That’s the kind of impact we strive for at VIN Realty Group: helping people move forward with clarity, confidence, and care.

Q. The real estate industry is evolving quickly with technology and market shifts. How do you see the future of property buying and selling, and how is VIN Realty Group preparing for it? 

A. At VIN Realty Group, we see this as an opportunity to innovate while staying true to our core values of genuine care and client-first service. We believe the future of property buying and selling will be shaped by three major trends:

1. Digital Convenience: Buyers and sellers increasingly expect seamless digital experiences, from virtual inspections and online contracts to AI-powered property recommendations. We’re investing in smart tools that streamline the process while keeping it personal. For example, we offer virtual walkthroughs, digital document signing, and tailored property alerts to make the journey smoother and more accessible.

2. Data-Driven Decisions: Clients want more than just listings, they want insights. We use market analytics and buyer behaviour data to help clients make informed choices, whether they’re timing a sale or choosing the right suburb to buy in. This helps reduce uncertainty and builds confidence.

3. Human-Centered Tech: While technology is essential, we believe it should enhance but not replace the human connection. Our approach blends innovation with empathy. We use tech to simplify the process, but we’re always available for real conversations, guidance, and support.

At VIN Realty Group, we’re preparing for the future by staying agile, embracing smart tools, and continuing to build strong relationships. We’re not just adapting to change, we are leading with it, ensuring our clients feel supported, informed, and empowered every step of the way.

By Jacqueline Koloski

I find when listening to people, if you really listen to the words they say, you can feel an energy attached to the words they use. Some words are expressed with more emphasis on them, some even get caught in their throats as they try to express themselves, or they might even whisper words as well. The art of expressing ourselves through words is fascinating. It can tell you so much about the other person if you pay attention. 

Do you ever stop and actually listen to the words you use? 

Do you pay attention to the repetitiveness of words you use to express yourself? 

Words have their own unique energy. If you stop and tune in and pay attention to how you feel when you use words, you will become aware of the energy of it. What is the energy of the word saying or implying? 

We can look at the dictionary meaning of the word and we can also look at what our beliefs and experiences are with words. When I’m working with clients and they share what is happening for them, I pick up on the energy of the words they use and often that is where I will ask them more questions. For example: talking with a client and they share about their relationship and they say share that their wife/husband/partner are nagging at them to get things done. 

The word that has the most intensity of energy on it is what I hear, feel and I see the energy of that word. It could be spiral shaped, flowing, swirls any type of pattern at all. This is the starting point for asking that client questions around what that word means for them. As they start talking about it I feel the energy of it shift and change shape as they go deeper and deeper within themselves to the core of what that word actually means for them. What does it bring up for them at the core of it? This is where they then choose to acknowledge what that is for them or not. I often find that at this point they have this intense release and let go, a deep breath and the energy of that word starts to flow and the intensity has gone. The client often feels lighter, clearer about a situation or event and can see other possibilities that are available to them. It’s beautiful to see. 

When we start being aware of the words we use, we give ourselves a gift. The gift of self awareness, seeing what we focus on and creating in our life. Our words are powerful and being aware and mindful of the words we use can shift our world and our perspective. It shows us what our beliefs are around various situations and where we may also be limiting ourselves. 

Take time to hear what you are saying. What words do you use over and over again. See how this is showing up in your life.

What is showing up in your life? Take a look and then see what words or phrases you keep using. 

It takes practice to stop and be aware of the words you use. Pay attention. Use another word or rephrase a sentence if needed. 

Being aware of what we say and the words we use is a good place to start when we desire to create differently. Make yourself a priority and pay attention. You have all you need. 

Meet our inspiring member Geetha, Mrs Australia 1st Runner-Up and founder of Mermaid Cosmetics (https://mermaidcosmetics.com.au) – a holistic, minimalistic skincare brand born in Sydney with a purpose beyond beauty. Built on authenticity, compassion, and conscious care, Mermaid Cosmetics offers simple, honest, and empowering skincare crafted with natural, effective ingredients, proudly 100% Australian made, cruelty-free, and free from harsh chemicals. What sets it apart is its heart – a portion of every product supports children’s mental health initiatives, a cause close to Geetha. For her, Mermaid Cosmetics is more than skincare; it’s a legacy of strength, self-love, and healing, turning self-care into shared care.

We recently enjoyed interviewing her.

Q. Your journey from Mrs Australia 1st Runner-Up to founder of Mermaid Cosmetics is inspiring. What moment or experience sparked the idea of creating your own skincare brand?

A. Thank you! The idea for Mermaid Cosmetics was born out of my own healing journey. After struggling with my self-worth for many years. I began to realise how deeply our inner wounds can affect how we treat ourselves, including how we care for our skin. I wanted to create a brand that wasn’t just about looking beautiful, but about feeling worthy of self-care and self-love. I want to help other women experience this too. That’s when Mermaid Cosmetics was born, not as a product, but as a purpose.

Q. Mermaid Cosmetics is built on values like authenticity, compassion, and conscious care. How did your personal values and life experiences shape the brand’s mission and identity?

A. Everything about Mermaid Cosmetics is deeply personal. Through years of healing, I’ve come to understand the power of self-love. This brand reflects that growth. We’re not here to promise perfection, we’re here to nurture real skin, real stories, and real women. I built this brand on compassion because that’s what saved me, and on conscious care because we deserve products that are as gentle and honest as we wish the world had been to us.

Q. You’ve chosen to support children’s mental health through your brand. Why is this cause so close to your heart, and how do you envision Mermaid Cosmetics making an impact in this space?

A. This cause is incredibly close to my heart. Emotional neglect and trauma can leave lifelong scars, but I believe that with early support and awareness, we can break that cycle. Through Mermaid Cosmetics, I want to raise awareness, create conversations, and ultimately have initiatives that help children feel safe, seen, and supported. A 10% of every sale profit goes toward supporting programs focused on children’s mental health and abuse prevention initiatives because healing shouldn’t have to wait until adulthood.

Q. With so many skincare brands on the market, what makes Mermaid Cosmetics stand out, not just in terms of ingredients, but in philosophy and purpose?

A. Mermaid Cosmetics is not just another beauty brand, it’s a healing space that promotes self-love. While we use Premium, 100% Australian-made, 100% cruelty-free ingredients that actually work, what truly sets us apart is our soul. We don’t chase trends, we focus on intentional, minimalist skincare that nurtures your skin. Our philosophy is rooted in self-love, emotional resilience, and empowerment. When someone uses our products, I want them to feel seen, valued, and beautiful not just on the outside, but deep within.

Q. As a woman balancing entrepreneurship, advocacy, and a public role as a beauty queen, what advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passions with heart and courage?

A. Follow your heart! Start with your heart and let the rest follow. There will be moments of fear, doubt, and exhaustion but if your mission is bigger than your fear, you’ll keep moving. Trust your voice. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision, even when it’s just a seed. You can be powerful and gentle at the same time. That’s the true essence of Mermaid Cosmetics.

Meet our member Nicole Voyatzis, founder of Nicole & Baby (https://nicoleandbaby.com), a luxury pet boutique in Sydney. 

“My brand is all about blending high fashion with functional design for pets — from couture-inspired clothing to innovative, anxiety-calming wear — offering exclusive pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Since launching in late 2022, Nicole & Baby has been featured in British Vogue three times and has partnered with leading animal welfare organisations like the RSPCA to help care for abandoned, neglected, and injured animals.

Alongside our boutique, we also host a regular pop-up shop in Double Bay with Fido & Fido, where we run community events that bring together dog lovers, local businesses, and charity partners. This December, I’m hosting the Double Bay Dog Christmas Festival in collaboration with Woollahra Council — a high-energy, glamorous yet community-focused day featuring pet runway shows, VIP experiences, live music, and more, all in support of RSPCA NSW.

My mission is to create beautiful, solution-based pet fashion that not only makes pets look incredible but also deepens the connection between pets and their owners.” – Nicole. 

We enjoyed interviewing her recently.

Q. What inspired you to blend high fashion with functional design for pets, and how did that vision evolve into Nicole & Baby?

A. The inspiration came from two great loves — my dogs and my lifelong passion for beautiful design. I’ve always believed pets deserve the same level of craftsmanship, comfort, and style that we expect for ourselves. I saw a gap: pet fashion was either functional but plain, or stylish but impractical. I wanted both. That’s how Nicole & Baby was born — a brand where every piece is runway-worthy yet solves real needs, from weather protection to calming anxiety.

Now, that vision is coming to life in a whole new way with the very first Double Bay’s Festive Fashion Pawrade, l on Saturday, December 7, in collaboration with Woollahra Council. It’s going to be a day of couture dog runway shows, festive activities, and VIP experiences — and I’d love for every pet lover, fashion enthusiast, and local family to join us. Bring your dog, dress to impress, and be part of a moment that’s set to become a new Double Bay tradition.

Q. Nicole & Baby has been featured in British Vogue three times. How did those opportunities come about, and what impact did they have on your brand’s growth?

A. The British Vogue features were beyond a dream — and the most incredible part is they reached out to me after discovering Nicole & Baby on social media. They loved the way we merged high fashion with practical petwear, and that recognition put us on the map internationally. The response was phenomenal, with customers from around the world discovering us.
Now, with our first-ever Double Bay’s Festive Fashion Pawrade on December 7, I’m bringing that same high-fashion glamour off the pages of Vogue and into real life — right in the heart of Double Bay. If you’ve ever wanted to experience luxury pet fashion up close, see a designer dog runway, and shop exclusive collections, this is your chance. Mark your calendar and join us for an unforgettable day.

Q. Your anxiety-calming wear is both stylish and solution-oriented. Can you share the design process behind these pieces and the feedback you’ve received from pet owners?

A. This collection came from a personal need — my own dogs, especially Ralphie, get anxious during storms, travel, or loud events. I wanted something beautiful that could also help them feel safe. After months of designing, we created garments that use gentle, hug-like pressure and include a discreet lavender pouch for extra calming benefits. Pet owners have told us their dogs are calmer, more relaxed, and even happier wearing them.

Q. You’ve partnered with the RSPCA and are launching events like the Double Bay Dog Christmas Festival. How do you balance creating a luxury brand with fostering community and supporting animal welfare?

A. For me, luxury isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about the values and the impact you make. Partnering with the RSPCA felt natural because animal welfare is at the heart of Nicole & Baby. The Double Bay’s Festive Fashion Pawrade, debuting on December 7 in collaboration with Woollahra Council, is a perfect example of that balance.

It’s a glamorous, high-fashion day that also raises vital funds for abandoned, neglected, and surrendered animals. I want everyone who attends to leave feeling inspired — knowing they’ve been part of something beautiful that also changes lives. Whether you’re a pet owner, a fashion lover, or someone who just wants to support a good cause, you’re warmly invited to join us.

Q. Where do you see the future of high-end pet fashion heading, and what exciting projects or innovations are you working on next?

A. I see pet fashion moving toward designs that don’t just look good, but actively improve pets’ lives — from anxiety-reducing clothing to climate-responsive fabrics. For Nicole & Baby, the next step is expanding our anti-anxiety range, experimenting with sustainable luxury materials, and creating couture pieces worthy of the world’s top fashion runways. The Double Bay Dog Christmas Festival on December 7will be the launchpad for many of these innovations. It’s our biggest stage yet, and the perfect opportunity for you to see — and shop — what’s next in luxury pet fashion. If you love dogs, design, or just being part of something new and exciting, you won’t want to miss it.

Nicole and Baby Luxury Pet Boutique

+61 450 126 791

contact@nicoleandbaby.com

www.nicoleandbaby.com

Purpose! What is your Purpose? How many times I have heard this asked. How many times have I asked myself what my purpose is? 

• Why am I here? 
• What am I here to do? 
• Who am I here to be? 

Have you asked yourself this? I am sure you have. Did you come up with an answer? Did you come up with what your purpose is? I truly hope you did and that you are living and loving what your purpose is and being that in the world. If you haven’t come up with an answer, this is ok. I know I haven’t really come up with an answer. Sometimes I think I have and then nope, it’s not that. Is our purpose even tangible? Is it an actual thing we do, or teach, or share or what else? It could be doing and being who you are right now? 

I’ve been asking this question of myself for as long as I can remember and I am still asking. In discussions with people when this question has been asked there has been varied responses like; we are here to be happy, to experience all that life has to offer, to teach, to share our gift (if we even know what that is), to make this world a better place or to evolve spiritually. I’m sure there are many other reasons as to what our purpose is and why we are here. Is our purpose different from others or is there a fundamental underlying purpose that is the same for us all?  Is it to all evolve spiritually to create a better life for all? What does that even look like?

I find it interesting when connecting with the energy of purpose and what that could be. For me it feels like whatever the purpose is, that it is just beyond the reach of my current awareness. Just sitting there on the sidelines waiting for me to connect and allow it in. I have had many experiences in life, shared lots with people who have come into my world and I can see the change that has taken place for them and me from this interaction. Am I already being and living my purpose?

Is this my purpose? To open up possibilities for people to look deeper within and connect to themselves to choose more, to choose differently? Possibly. How does this look? Am I making it more complex than is needed? Possibly. 

Where have you done this in your life? Where have you questioned your purpose in life? Is what you are doing right now your purpose? Does it bring you joy? Does it give you energy and light? Do you wake up and feel a deep inner contentment of gratitude for you and your purpose? Are you one with your purpose or is it outside of you? 

• What if our purpose was to create more connection and kindness in the world? This starts with you. Where are you being this?
• What if our purpose was to gain a deeper understanding and knowing of who we are?
• What if our purpose was to do the job we are doing that creates a better world or makes life easier for another?
• What if our purpose was ? You fill in this. 

What I do know is that each one of us has a gift to offer. A purpose if you like for being here in the world right now. It could be in the smile you give another that can change their day, a kind word, taking action towards achieving a goal, anything.  Any of this can be our purpose. I guess it’s all about our perception of what purpose is and how significant we wish to make it? 

Live your best life. Make choices that feel good for you. You get to choose how to live your life. 

Author: Jacqueline Koloski

(https://www.connectingwithjacqueline.com/)

Meet Sukruti Narayanan, a visionary STEM advocate, journalist, and educator who co-founded the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Foundation (RAIF) in 2012 to democratise access to emerging technologies in India. As President, she led national outreach initiatives that reached over 500,000 students across 23 cities, with a special focus on underprivileged communities. Her efforts in STEM education and gender inclusion earned her the Young Visionary Award by PRCI and a spot among India’s Top 10 Women Technologists by TechStory. Now based in Australia, she continues her mission through RAISE ME, a nonprofit empowering young minds through Robotics, AI, STEM, Entrepreneurship, and Media.

Suk serves as Global Head of Partnerships for Mission ShakthiSAT – an all-female-led lunar space mission involving 108 countries and 12,000 girls – and as Head of Social Media for the UN-endorsed World Space Week Organisation. She is also an active journalist with Desi Australia, Hustler Journalist, Space Kidz Times, and PreSense, and an advisor to the Digital Journalists Association of India (DiJAI). A proponent of constructive journalism, she presented a paper on science communication at the GloCal Butterfly Exhibition in Finland. Sukruti is also the author of Excuses to Empowerment and Mentor Code, and her work continues to bridge gaps in education, equity, and ethics across technology and media.

Here is an interview with her:

1. You began democratising access to robotics and AI education in India over a decade ago. What inspired you to take on such a visionary mission at a time when these fields were still in their infancy?

As an Electrical & Electronics Engineer, I was often the only girl in rooms full of boys, coding robots and integrating embedded systems while still in college. With IT giants hiring en masse, core engineering talent was overlooked, pushing me to take a different path.

I co-founded RAIF, a tech NGO that brought robotics and AI education to over 500,000 students across 23 Indian cities,making me earn the Young Visionary Award and recognition as one of India’s Top 10 Women Technologists in 2015 by Tech in Asia. Inspired by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s belief that “all children are equally curious, regardless of their background,” I launched RAISE ME in Australia to empower youth in Robotics, AI, Science, Entrepreneurship, and Media, and later founded Thrive X, helping teens explore future-ready careers.

2. Through RAIF, RAISE ME and Mission ShakthiSAT, you’ve empowered hundreds of thousands of young girls across the globe. You are also a certified NLP practitioner. What keeps you going?

Everyone is born with a purpose, but discovering it requires exposure, emotional growth, and grounding. If we can offer young people broad experiences early in life, we help them find their path faster and make a meaningful impact.

As Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam said, “No one is useless, people are only used less.”

Being raised by inspiring mentors, I feel a deep responsibility to guide the next generation – academically, spiritually, and in helping them realise their limitless potential.

3. You wear many hats, from leading global space missions to advocating for constructive journalism. How do you balance your passion for science education with your commitment to ethical storytelling in media?

Waking up to a flood of negativity on social media is more than exhausting, it chips away at confidence and hope. After over a decade in media, I’m committed to shifting the narrative: amplifying everyday voices, celebrating unsung contributions, and bringing dignity back to storytelling. Mainstream outlets often overlook the stories that truly matter. And in covering breakthroughs in AI, space tech, and STEM, I’ve seen firsthand, especially through Mission ShakthiSAT, how urgently science journalism needs a transformation.

This inspired me to launch Hustler Journalist, a platform for constructive, science-focused journalism that informs with accuracy, uplifts with purpose, and aligns with my PhD journey to reshape how we report the future.

4. The ShakthiSAT mission is historic, especially in terms of female participation in space science. What challenges did you face in building partnerships across 108 countries, and how did you overcome them?

The journey has been filled with challenges but each one has fuelled immense growth and purpose.

From identifying and onboarding country Ambassadors to enabling them to reach 108 girls in their nations, and leading global outreach audits while engaging journalists worldwide, this mission has tested and shaped every facet of my leadership.

As both the Australian Ambassador and a key player in Mission ShakthiSAT’s global operations, I’ve gained firsthand insight into micro and macro outreach, navigating cultural, digital, and operational complexities.

I’m deeply grateful to Dr. Srimathy Kesan, whose visionary leadership has empowered me and thousands more. Together, we are building a legacy.

Key milestones that continue to inspire and challenge me:

• 9,000+ students from 108 countries are now learning through the Mission ShakthiSAT LMS.

• In many regions, internet access remains a luxury, and relentless efforts by Dr. Kesan have brought connectivity to underserved girls—turning hope into access.

• I now serve as the Global Social Media Manager for the UN-endorsed World Space Week Organisation, driving space awareness across 90+ nations.

• My academic paper on science journalism and constructive media was selected for presentation at the GloCal Butterfly Conference in Finland, where I proposed new global frameworks for reporting on space, education, and public policy.

• Honoured to be appointed Australia Country Chair for Space Technology & Aviation with G100 | Mission Million—a global network for women leaders.

This mission has not only advanced my professional path but also deepened my commitment to global equity, access, and innovation in space education.

5. Your books, “Excuses to Empowerment” and “Mentor Code,” reflect your focus on transformation and leadership. What key messages do you hope young readers and future leaders take away from them?

I cant thank my mentor – Shri Srinivasan sir enough for making me author both the books. Both these books have been a great reflection of my journey and I have had tremendous joy in writing this as I relive all the incidents that feel so fresh. I have to mention how my mentor took the extra step of having my book “Mentor Code” launched by the Parliamentary Affairs Minister of India – Shri Kiren Rijuji.

I encourage the young readers to keep reading more and more. Nothing can impart wisdom more than a book. And each time you read the same book multiple times, you will have a very different understanding out of it. 

“What you see in the social media is the people’s version of the book. So for you to understand what a book is trying to say, you need to experience it yourself. So keep reading and keep growing!”

You connect with Suk on Linkedin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/suknarayanan/