In a world that celebrates success and perfection, we often overlook one of the most powerful forces behind personal and professional growth – making mistakes. The idea that “the most valuable thing you can make is a mistake” challenges the perfection-driven culture that tells us failure is something to fear. In reality, mistakes are the foundation of learning, creativity, and transformation. They force us to slow down, reevaluate, and dig deeper into our understanding. Every mistake holds within it the potential for clarity, insight, and innovation.

Perfection, by contrast, is static. It offers the illusion of control but limits the opportunity to grow. When things go perfectly, we often glide over the surface, missing the deeper lessons. It is only when we fall short, when things don’t go according to plan, that we are truly invited to evolve. Mistakes demand resilience, humility, and adaptability, all essential traits for success in life and business. They teach us what doesn’t work so we can uncover what does. They sharpen our instincts, broaden our perspectives, and develop our problem-solving skills in ways no textbook or theory ever could.

Throughout history, some of the greatest inventions, breakthroughs, and works of art were born out of errors and failed attempts. From Thomas Edison’s many trials before inventing the lightbulb to accidental scientific discoveries like penicillin, mistakes have consistently paved the way for progress. Yet, in our day-to-day lives, we often strive to avoid them at all costs, forgetting that each setback is a stepping stone to something greater.

When we shift our mindset to view mistakes not as defeats, but as data (feedback from the universe), we unlock our potential to grow without fear. We stop hiding behind perfection and start showing up authentically, ready to learn. The truth is, you can’t learn anything from being perfect. Perfection may look good on the outside, but it’s in the raw, unfiltered experience of failing and rising again that real wisdom is born. So, the next time you make a mistake, don’t regret it, respect it. It’s a sign that you’re trying, growing, and becoming more of who you’re meant to be.

Weaving Rituals into the Fabric of Our Lives

By Jacqueline Koloski

How present are you being as you go about your day? Are you awake and aware of what you are doing or are you functioning from habit? What if you elevated your everyday actions into an intentional ritual? 

Life is busy, full and many of us do not take the time to connect with ourselves, or stop and look at what it is we are really doing in our lives. We do not take the time to slow down and be present in all that we do. Many of us have created habits for ourselves and we live our lives functioning from this space. We function with a lack of being present  and being aware of what we are doing. Habits allow us to not use up brain space as I like to call it. Our habits are what we have repeated over and over again to the point that we no longer think or sometimes even remember what we have done as it’s so habitual. The repetitiveness of a habit becomes such a part of who we are that we stop being present in our own lives. Like when you get up in the morning you have a routine. You do the same thing every morning without any conscious thought, you get out of bed, go to the bathroom, make a coffee, scroll on social media and before you know it time has gone by and you need to get ready for the day. In that moment you haven’t been present with yourself or possibly not even present with anyone around you. You function from autopilot, from habitual unconscious actions. There is very little conscious thought put into it. Often we don’t even remember doing the habit, it is so automatic. Is this really how you want to live your life? 

Rituals are done with purpose, with conscious choice and deliberate action. When we consciously perform a ritual it can provide us with clarity, purpose and mindfulness of what is going on for us. Rituals offer us a chance to become very present in that moment, assist in creating energetic shifts, healing, renewing our connection to self and having a deeper connection within to hear our own guidance. They require us to consciously make time and prepare for them. You can make anything in your life a ritual. It’s about being present and consciously aware of what you are doing. You could make having a shower everyday into a ritual. When taking a shower, be present with yourself and your body. Allow yourself to feel the water on your body, the joy of washing your hair and be intentional with what you are doing. This tells our bodies that we love and care for it. We appreciate all it does for us.

When doing a ritual there is an energy that weaves its way into the fabric of our lives. They create a foundation from which we can build our lives. To be present in all we do, to be mindful of our thoughts, feelings and actions, in how we live and interact with ourselves and others. They bring us back to ourselves and ask us to know who we are and what we are about. They offer us the gift of living consciously and with intention. Rituals weave their way into our very core to offer us the gift of truly being present with ourselves and the world around us. These rituals become traditions that are passed onto the next generation to weave the fabric of their lives. Rituals have always been with us and when we use them with intention they become the foundation from which we build our lives. 

• What foundations are you laying? 
• What life are you wanting to create? 
• What habits do you need to stop and let go of? 
• What rituals can you start and add to your life that will create a beautiful foundation from which to build your magical life.
• What if we created our own rituals that we can use everyday as we live our life.  
• What could we change in our life? 
• What is possible for us when we stay present and allow the gifts of rituals to weave their magic into our daily lives.

The consistency of small repetitive steps taken each day creates the rituals on which we live. The repetitive patterns of rituals can have symbolic meanings and can be personal, cultural, religious and can include words, gestures and objects.

 A few tips when creating rituals:

• Be present with yourself.
• Look at the everyday acts you perform that you would like to create as a ritual.
• Keep it simple. Don’t over complicate what you do.
• Rituals are generally repetitive and are performed regularly.
• What is your intention behind the ritual?
• They have a specific order to the actions.
• They can be symbolic in nature and ceremonies can be formal or informal.
• Create space for you to do your ritual. If you need time away from others then create that space and the time.
• Be present and conscious when doing your ritual. Whether it’s a daily task or a ritual that is for a specific reason, like a full moon ritual or letting go ritual or inviting things into your life ritual.
• What items do you need to use to complete your rituals?
• Give yourself permission to be present and create your rituals.
• Finish your ritual with the gift of gratitude.

When I started weaving rituals into my life, I knew that I needed them to be simple and not overcomplicated. I would look at all the areas of my life and start to see what rituals I could add. What daily rituals could I do to be more present in my life? I started looking at an act I performed daily and turned that into a ritual. Like brushing my teeth, showering, eating, exercising, interacting with others, cooking, sleeping and more. The more I focused on performing these acts as a ritual, I could feel my body and mind start to ease and slow down and relax as I became more present with myself and not rushing around just to get things done. I became aware of a shift in how I felt about myself and my world. I started seeing clearly how rituals were weaving their way into my life. 

Occasional Rituals are rituals that are done for specific reasons like full moon, new moon rituals, religious, cultural, ceremonial or sporting rituals. You might do a ritual to release things from your life or a ritual to invite something into your life. You might have a family ritual for birthdays or other special occasions that you celebrate. Whatever the ritual is that you are choosing to do, do it with intention. Set yourself up before doing the ritual. 

For example, if you choose to do a release ritual, what do you need? You might decide you want to use sacred cacao in a ceremony where you choose the cacao and lovingly make it up all the while being present in that moment. You may choose to have a journal, your favourite pen, crystals, incense, questions that you ask yourself or anything that you wish to have with you. Whatever it is you wish to include in your rituals, be present and listen to your inner knowing of what is needed. Take the time to set yourself up and be intentional with all you do.

Rituals bring us together as a community, they can reinforce values, have personal meaning, reduce stress and allow us to live our life intentionally.  Allow the magic of rituals to weave their way into the fabric of your life and watch as it transforms the way you live. 

About the author:

Jacqueline is an author and intuitive mentor, who  knows that true change is the result of the cumulative impact of small, consistent steps taken daily. She understands that healing and transformation flourish in the fertile soil of self-love and kindness.  She offers practical tools, strategies and introspective questions to invite you to look inwards to discover the magic of your true self. 

Here is the link to her book on Amazon:

The Autumn Edit

As the air turns crisp and the days begin to shorten, autumn sweeps in with its golden charm and a gentle reminder to slow down and savour the beauty around us. It’s a season that invites us to step outside, breathe in the earthy scent of fallen leaves, and of course, update our wardrobes. ‘The Autumn Edit’, our 2025 autumn fashion feature in collaboration with She Magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au/), is dedicated to this season.

Autumn fashion is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and chic. Some prefer to wrap up in stylish sweaters and coats, embracing the cozy layers that the season calls for. Think vibrant tones like red and pink or earthy tones like orange and brown. 

Others, however, hold on to the carefree spirit of summer, donning dresses. Whether you’re team sweater-weather or team eternal summer, autumn fashion offers room for creative self-expression.

Beyond the wardrobe, autumn is an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors. The weather is normally pleasant, not too hot, not too cold, making it perfect for long walks in the park, picnics at the gardens, or even a quiet stroll along the beach. Whether you’re admiring the colourful foliage in a botanical garden or watching the sun set over the ocean, there’s something incredibly grounding about spending time in nature during this season.

And it’s not just about the aesthetics. Being outdoors and dressing up has a powerful effect on our mental health. Nature, fresh air, and natural light are known to reduce stress, boost mood, and increase feelings of happiness. Dressing well, meanwhile, can boost confidence and self-esteem, adding a little extra spring to your step.

We hope you enjoyed the autumn season, from soaking in the golden hues to stepping out in style, wrapped in cozy layers or breezy dresses. Whether you embraced the chill or kept summer alive in your wardrobe, this season was all about expressing yourself, enjoying the outdoors, and feeling good inside and out.

Many thanks to our members for sending us their autumn photos for this feature.

Thanks to:

AU Gallery Boutique

Shrirang Khandekar Photography

Usana Australia

The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.

Every purchase we make, whether it’s a cup of coffee or a luxury car, is ultimately driven not just by logic, but by emotion. As much as we like to think we’re rational consumers, the truth is that behind every buying decision lies a deeper emotional trigger. Understanding these triggers can unlock powerful insights for marketers, brands, and entrepreneurs who want to build meaningful connections with their audience.

Here are the five key emotional triggers that influence consumer behavior:

1. Autonomy: “Let Me Choose. Don’t Force.”

People want the freedom to make their own decisions. They resist being controlled or coerced. When consumers feel like they’re being sold to aggressively or manipulated, they push back. But when they’re offered options, guided with empathy, and empowered to choose, they lean in.

Application: Provide flexible options. Use language that respects the customer’s agency – “you might like,” “you can choose,” “here are some ideas.” Avoid hard sells; instead, facilitate informed decisions.

2. Appreciation: “Make Me Feel Valued.”

Consumers are drawn to brands that make them feel seen, heard, and appreciated. A personalised message, a thank-you note, or even remembering a customer’s name can turn a one-time buyer into a loyal fan.

Application: Use personalisation wherever possible – in emails, packaging, and service. Acknowledge loyalty. Celebrate milestones. Show gratitude. Make customers feel like they matter beyond their wallet.

3. Affiliation: “Show Me I Belong to Something.”

Humans are wired for connection. We want to be part of a community, a tribe, or a movement that reflects our identity. When a brand aligns with our values and offers a sense of belonging, we’re more likely to buy into it, literally.

Application: Build communities around your brand. Highlight shared values. Use inclusive language like “join us,” “our tribe,” or “your people.” Foster engagement through stories, social media, and group experiences.

4. Role: “Help Me Feel Like I Matter.”

People want to feel useful and important. They want to know that what they do and what they choose to support makes a difference. When a brand gives them a role to play, they feel empowered and significant.

Application: Let your customers co-create with you. Give them a role in your mission. Encourage feedback, involve them in campaigns, and show how their support drives change. Let them be heroes in your brand story.

5. Status: “Let Me Stand Out or Level Up.”

Consumers often buy things that help them feel more successful, more attractive, or more respected. This doesn’t always mean luxury or flash, it means meaningfully elevating their self-image.

Application: Offer exclusivity. Showcase transformations. Use aspirational messaging that allows people to envision their “next level” self. Position your product or service as a stepping stone to their goals.

When you understand these five emotional triggers – Autonomy, Appreciation, Affiliation, Role, and Status – you move beyond selling products and start creating emotional resonance. You stop pushing transactions and start building relationships. And in today’s crowded marketplace, that’s not just a smart strategy, it’s essential.

So next time you design a campaign or craft a message, ask yourself: Which emotional trigger am I tapping into?

Because in the end, people don’t just buy products, they buy feelings. 

We are taught from a young age to strive for results, to reach the finish line faster, and to measure our worth by accomplishments. But the truth is, success is temporary, while growth is transformational. And the moment we shift our mindset from chasing success to embracing growth, everything changes.

Success, as society defines it, often revolves around external validation. It’s about what you can show the world – your grades, your job title, your social media following, or your income. But success can be fragile. One failure, one missed opportunity, or one unexpected setback can feel like a step backwards. And when we attach our self-worth to this fragile structure, it creates anxiety, pressure, and constant comparison.

On the other hand, growth is internal. It’s personal, silent, and often invisible to others, but deeply fulfilling. It’s about becoming more aware, more skilled, more compassionate, and more aligned with your true self. Growth doesn’t demand perfection; it thrives on curiosity, learning, and persistence. When you chase growth, you embrace failure as a teacher, not a defeat. You value the journey over the destination. You begin to ask, “What am I learning?” instead of “What am I achieving?”

Here’s the irony: when you focus on growth, success often follows naturally. Whether it’s building deep relationships, becoming a thought leader in your field, or reaching personal goals, these outcomes become the by-products of a growth-oriented mindset. Growth is sustainable; it builds character, resilience, and long-term fulfillment. Success may open doors, but growth ensures you’re ready to walk through them.

To chase growth means to redefine what it means to ‘win.’ It means being proud of your effort, your progress, and your inner evolution. It means choosing feedback over flattery, consistency over quick fixes, and authenticity over appearances. In this narrative, success isn’t the goal, it’s a milestone along a path of lifelong development.

If you feel lost in the race for success, pause and ask yourself: “Am I growing?” Because growth is where true empowerment lies. It doesn’t fade with time, and it doesn’t depend on who’s watching. When you chase growth, you don’t just become successful, you become unshakable.

Meet our member Jalni Shah, the dynamic owner of SSS Foods (https://sssfoods.com.au/) who has built a thriving food business driven by her passion for authentic flavours. With a background in finance, she transitioned into entrepreneurship in 2018, managing a food manufacturing business while her husband launched a recruitment company. Identifying a gap in the market for fresh and unique chutneys, she successfully secured a national launch of Jalsa Chutneys into Woolworths in November 2024. Committed to quality and innovation, Jalni ensures her chutneys stand out with bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. Passionate about helping others navigate the challenges of working with large retailers, Jalni is eager to share her experiences and support aspiring food entrepreneurs.

Here is an interview with her. 

Tell us a bit about yourself – what you do, your hobbies, passions, dreams etc

I’m a UK-born Gujarati who moved to Sydney in 1999 with just backpacks, and over the years, Australia has become my home. I have three children, aged 21, 19, and 16, and we live in Castle Hill. While my background is in finance, in 2018, my husband and I decided to dive into business. He launched his own recruitment company, and we also acquired a food manufacturing business, which I ran. Food is my passion, and I love seeing people enjoy the creations I put together. We identified a gap in the market for fresh, unique chutneys, and despite the challenges, we managed to secure a launch with Jalsa Chutneys nationally into Woolworths in November 2024.

What marketing strategies have worked best for your brand’s success?

In terms of marketing strategies, we focus heavily on promoting our products through Woolworths and have built strong relationships with influencers who actively engage with our brand. Food is one of those things that everyone loves to share on Instagram, and we leverage this by encouraging influencers to showcase our products, which helps boost visibility and create buzz around our brand.

What does a typical day in your life looks like? 

A typical day for me involves a mix of planning, managing orders, procurement, social media, and promotions. I also make time to talk to customers, staying connected and listening to their feedback to ensure we’re meeting their needs. On production days, I like to roll up my sleeves and help out with the team, identifying areas for improvement. If I’m not directly involved, how can I know where things can be better? With trucks arriving every day, forklift driving is also part of my routine. We run a tight ship, and I’m always hands-on to keep everything running smoothly.

What makes your chutneys and dips unique compared to others on the market?

Our chutneys are unique in the marketplace because they offer a fresh, flavourful twist on traditional recipes, using high-quality ingredients and authentic methods. We focus on creating unique combinations of spices and ingredients that aren’t commonly found in the typical condiment section. Each batch is crafted with care, ensuring bold, fresh flavours that stand out from mass-produced options. Additionally, our chutneys cater to a growing demand for innovative and gourmet food products, making them a perfect addition to modern kitchens. With a focus on quality, freshness, and creativity, our chutneys bring something new and exciting to the market.  Please view our chutneys and more information on http://www.jalsafoods.com.au

We have had enough learnings dealing with large retailers, and would be happy to provide assistance to anyone wanting to embark on this journey.

The January ‘Inspire & Thrive’ session by Women In Business, Empowered BWB & She Magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au) at The Sydney Startup Hub (11 York St, Sydney) was a great success, leaving everyone inspired, empowered, and brimming with fresh ideas. Dedicated to supporting women on their personal and professional growth journeys, these small & intimate coaching sessions are designed to prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring meaningful connections and impactful learning experiences.

The session was expertly facilitated by Business Coach Anshu Saxena, whose invaluable guidance made it both engaging and insightful. A key highlight was the interactive exercise on the topic of ‘communication.’ Participants explored techniques for effective communication, shared personal experiences, and exchanged innovative ideas, making it a truly collaborative and enlightening experience.

The safe and supportive atmosphere allowed attendees to learn from each other, fostering genuine connections and sparking actionable takeaways to implement in their professional and personal lives.

It was great to hear and learn from the others including Owner of Narellan post office Neesha Bhagani, Mandala Artist & Life Coach Ash Sundaram, Research Scientist Manisha Pratihast and owner of Meyd.It (http://meyd.it) Susan Hansen.

Would you like to meet us for a chat and coffee or join one of our Coaching sessions at The Sydney Startup Hub?Whether you seek to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, engage in an inspiring exchange of ideas, receive valuable support and mentorship, explore collaboration opportunities, discuss your personal and professional growth, or simply enjoy the company of a friend with a listening ear, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us to schedule an appointment. Our dedicated team is eager and excited to assist you. You can email us at empoweredbwb@gmail.com or editor@shemagazine.com.au

Imagination is often dismissed as mere daydreaming, yet it is one of the most powerful tools we possess. Everything that exists today; every innovation, every piece of art, and every business idea, was once a thought, sparked by the imagination of someone who dared to dream. It is the foundation of creativity, the seed from which all action grows, and a guiding force that can transform not only our personal lives but also our professional endeavours.

At its core, imagination is the ability to visualise possibilities beyond the present reality. This mental process allows us to craft visions of what could be, inspiring us to take the first step toward turning ideas into tangible results. For businesses and entrepreneurs, imagination is invaluable. It enables us to see opportunities where others see obstacles, to innovate in competitive markets, and to adapt to ever-changing landscapes. It fuels problem-solving, helps us anticipate future trends, and pushes us to think beyond conventional limits. In essence, imagination is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for success in any field.

In the workplace, imagination doesn’t just help us create, it drives strategy. Whether you’re designing a product, improving customer experiences, or rethinking workflows, imagination allows you to picture the outcome before it exists. For instance, some of the world’s most successful companies like Apple, Tesla, Google etc are rooted in the power of imagining what others deemed impossible. Their leaders dared to envision futures no one else could see, and their actions followed suit.

How to Fuel and Cultivate Imagination:

Here are practical ways to nurture your imagination and unlock its full potential:

Create Space for Curiosity

Break away from rigid routines and give yourself time to explore new ideas. Engage in activities like reading, travelling, or trying new experiences that broaden your perspective. Ask questions about the world around you and seek answers in unexpected places. Dedicate time to learning something new, like a skill or a topic outside your expertise. Curiosity thrives when you allow yourself to wonder and explore without a specific goal in mind.

Engage in Creative Hobbies

Activities like painting, writing, music, or journalling can spark fresh ideas and unlock your creativity. Experiment with forms of art or expression you haven’t tried before to stretch your creative muscles. Set aside time each week to immerse yourself in these activities without pressure or judgment. Even small acts of creativity, like doodling or brainstorming, can reignite your imaginative spark.

Surround Yourself with Inspiration

Spend time with inspiring people, visit stimulating environments, and expose yourself to diverse viewpoints. Attend events, workshops, or exhibitions that challenge your thinking or introduce new ideas. Engage in meaningful conversations with individuals who have unique perspectives or experiences. Surrounding yourself with creativity and innovation energises your imagination and encourages fresh thinking.

Adopt a Childlike Mindset

Approach challenges with curiosity and a willingness to experiment, free from fear of failure. Ask open-ended questions like “What if?” and “Why not?” to push boundaries. Allow yourself to play, explore, and embrace the unexpected as children do. Replace self-doubt with a sense of wonder and excitement, treating every challenge as an opportunity to discover something new.

Practice Daydreaming and Visualisation

Let your mind wander intentionally or visualise your goals to create mental blueprints for action. Imagine scenarios where your ideas succeed, and let yourself feel the excitement of those outcomes. Create vision boards or use visualisation techniques to bring abstract ideas to life. Allowing yourself to dream freely paves the way for actionable insights and motivation

Challenge Your Patterns

Step out of your comfort zone by trying something new or solving problems in unconventional ways. Mix up your routine to break monotony, such as working in a different environment or learning a new process. Embrace challenges that force you to think differently, like puzzles or creative exercises. Shifting your habits disrupts automatic thinking and opens pathways to imaginative solutions.

Embrace Mindfulness

Stay present and observe the world around you. This helps you notice ideas and connections that might otherwise be missed. Practice techniques like deep breathing or meditation to calm your mind and create mental clarity. Pay attention to small details in your surroundings like colours, textures, sounds etc and let them inspire new thoughts. A mindful state often leads to surprising flashes of creativity.

By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can cultivate a vibrant imagination that fuels creativity, inspires innovation, and drives success. Whether you’re building a business, solving a problem, or dreaming of a better future, imagination is the ultimate tool to bring your vision to life.

Meet the incredibly talented and inspiring Indian Classical Dancer & Entrepreneur Pallavi Bhagavath, whose passion for dance and dedication to her craft have made her a remarkable figure in her community. As the owner of the thriving Natyokthi dance school (https://natyokthi.com), she not only teaches the art of movement but also instills confidence and creativity in each of her students. Her journey as both a dancer and businesswoman reflects her resilience, as she has overcome challenges and pursued her dreams with unwavering commitment. Through her school, she creates a nurturing environment where dancers of all ages can learn, express themselves, and grow. Her energy and love for dance are contagious, inspiring those around her to reach their fullest potential, both on and off the stage.

Here is an interview with her: 

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in dance, and start your own dance school?

 From a very young age, dance became an inseparable part of my life. At just 3 years old, I would make everyone sit around me while I danced for hours, captivating their attention. As I grew, it became clear to everyone around me that dance and I were inseparable. My father frequently spoke of Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam and her body of work, which deepened my passion for classical dance and inspired me to pursue it even further.

What impact do you hope your dance school has on your students, both in terms of dance and personal growth?

 Thank you for this question. There’s often a misconception that only those who “can dance” should learn dance. Dancing gracefully is one aspect, and performance is just a part of what dance encompasses. Historically, dance, music, and yoga were integral to the 64 subjects taught in Gurukul, aiming for holistic development.

 At Natyokthi, we emphasize teaching both the practical and theoretical foundations, helping students understand the science behind the art form. This deeper knowledge often inspires them, fostering a sense of appreciation for what they learn. Each level of learning is evaluated by a UGC-recognized board from India, which validates their progress and encourages them to pursue their studies with confidence.

 Through Nrutha, we align the body, and through Nrutya, we align the mind and emotions. With higher aspects of learning, students learn tuning their energy which not only refines their dance skills but also equips them with life tools, such as:

 Physical benefits: Agility, strength, and bodily awareness

Mental growth: Developing emotional intelligence and focus

Energetic alignment: Understanding teamwork, motivation, and a sense of belonging in the universe, all while gaining clarity and fulfillment in life.

This holistic approach nurtures personal growth that extends beyond dance into every aspect of life.

Where do you see yourself ten years from now? 

 In ten years, I don’t have specific tangible milestones, but my vision is clear. I see myself nurturing my students not only into skilled teachers, but more importantly, into compassionate and holistic individuals who will contribute meaningfully to society with an inclusive outlook.

 One of my concerns is the dilution of classical art forms like Bharatanatyam, music, and yoga. Today, with so much accessible online, anyone can copy from YouTube or piece together information from the internet and claim expertise, passing on incomplete knowledge to the next generation. This is a frightening prospect.

 To ensure that students in Australia and New Zealand receive a structured, validated education in these art forms, Natyokthi has become a center for the Sanchari Kala Parishad, a UGC-recognized board from India. We conduct exams and provide certifications for students pursuing dance, music, and other Indian fine arts.

 As the Maha pracharak or head of this exam center for Australia and New Zealand my goal is to reach as many students as possible through their teachers, encouraging them to take up these exams. This not only validates their learning but also ensures that they receive the full benefits and understanding of these rich cultural art forms. 

What advice would you give to aspiring dancers who are looking to pursue dance as a profession?

 My advice to aspiring dancers is to learn your craft thoroughly and focus on mastering the basics. It’s important to pursue formal exams and certifications so that your learning holds value and can be recognized.

Beyond technique, dance is about understanding its deeper nuances. Observe, listen, and feel the art—there is much more to it than simply moving from one position to another. Pass on the knowledge with passion and dedication.

As the shloka says:

आचार्यात् पादमादत्ते
पादं शिष्यः स्वमेधया ।
पादं सब्रह्मचारिभ्यः
पादं कालक्रमेण च ॥

You gain:

● 1/4 of your knowledge from your guru,

● 1/4 through your own practice and intelligence,

● 1/4 from fellow dancers, books, and observation,

● And the final 1/4 over time through life’s experiences and evolving.

Practically speaking, I hope society continues to appreciate the value of fine arts, allowing students to pursue dance as a professional path—whether as teachers, performers, or both.

Be organized and creative. Even the Natya Shastraemphasizes the need to be skilled in various aspects, from stage management to handling finances. With that balance of artistry and practical skills, you can truly excel.

SPRING ENCHANTMENT

As the vibrant hues of spring bloom around us, there’s no better time to refresh your wardrobe and embrace the season’s lively energy. ‘Spring Enchantment’ – our latest Spring Fashion Feature in collaboration with She Magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au/empowered-elegance-spring-fashion-that-tells-a-story), celebrates exactly that, an explosion of florals, bright colours, and effortlessly chic styles that capture the essence of spring.

From floral dresses that sway with the breeze to bold, eye-catching outfits that turn heads, our lookbook offers a glimpse into the diverse styles our members have embraced this season.

Dive into the beauty of the season with our feature of stunning outfits, where traditional meets modern chic. From blazers paired with pants for a sharp, sophisticated look to bright ethnic wear to elegant spring dresses, our members show how fashion can be both empowering and joyful.

We invite you to explore the creativity, elegance, and vibrancy in each look, as our members flaunt their unique styles, proving that fashion is not just about clothes but a celebration of confidence, individuality, and self-expression.

Get inspired by their bold combinations and check out the full gallery to refresh your spring wardrobe with flair!

Many thanks to:

Neha’s Indo Chic Trends Boutique

https://www.instagram.com/nehas_indochictrends

AU Gallery Boutique

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088680696788&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Jancqi By Sid

https://www.instagram.com/jancqi_by_sid

Lux Skin Aesthetics Clinic

https://www.instagram.com/luxskinaestheticsclinic

Louise Veronica Stylist

https://www.facebook.com/louiseveronica.89

The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.