A warm welcome to beauty with brains Shilpi Shah Gupta, who recently joined our fashion platform as a model. Her radiant glow lights up any room she enters.

Along with being a model, she is also a Registered Holistic Clinical Nutritionist and Entrepreneur. She is the owner of Go Vita Blacktown (https://www.facebook.com/wellbeingkarma/). She is passionate about helping others to live healthier and happier.

Meet our featured beauty with brains Mansi Khanna Bhatia, an entrepreneur based in Sydney, Australia. She is the owner of Mash Accessories.

https://www.mashaccessories.com.au

Here is an interview with this beautiful soul:

1. Tell us a bit about yourself – your goals, hobbies, passions etc.

I am a mother of 2 naughty kids, a 11 years old boy and a 7 years old girl. My education has empowered me to become what I am today. My school, Welham Girls school Dehradun, made me into the strong minded woman I am today.

My hobbies are meeting new people, playing basketball and listening to podcasts in my free time.
My passion has been empowering women and supporting organisations in India and Australia.

I started Mash accessories with a passion for creativity and with the goal of supporting small organisations in India. We train and employ women from underprivileged background and give them a way to earn a livelihood. I wanted to build a bridge hence I introduced a category close to my heart which is an Indigenous collection.

We have collaborated with Award winning artist Zachary Bennett Brooke of Saltwater Dreamtime to create a range of bags and ties.

2. Who or what inspires you?

My surroundings inspire me everyday. There are such amazing bunch of people I come across. Every day is a motivation pushing me forward for achieving my goals.

3. What is a typical day in your life like?

My typical day is fun and relaxing. I give myself sometime to mediate and start the day. For me mental health is of utmost importance. I have the most amazing bunch of friends who I interact with whenever possible.

My work schedule is ongoing. I turned my passion of creativity into my work so its fun, not stressful. Everyday I create memories. Having a small business has taught me that even if u fall get up and try again. Just make sure you don’t make the same mistake again. Go get what you want to achieve. Dream big and work hard.

Meet our featured beauty with brains Fiona Lang (also known as Fi), a businesswoman based in Hervey Bay, Queensland (Australia). She is the owner of Petite Property Services.

http://www.petitepropertyservices.com.au

Here is an interview with the talented lady who came up with a very unique business idea.

1. Tell us more about yourself – what you do, your hobbies, passions etc.

I run a small business, Petite Property Services, which provides Handywomen services working exclusively for women. While I have a background in education, I had to learn how to transfer these skills into different fields over the years. I worked in Child Protection for many years, before working as a Trades Assistant – and absolutely fell in love with it! I was faced with some difficult circumstances recently and again had to ‘think outside the box’, after experiencing significant losses in my life. It was from these losses however that I coined the idea for my current business ‘Petite Property Services’, where I get to combine my love of DIY, Trades Assistant skills, along with my social work experience, to offer maintenance services to women who may not be feeling comfortable with having a male presence in their home.

When I’m not enjoying learning new trade skills or checking out the latest in tools (I don’t shop for clothes – I shop for tools!) I love to get out on the dirt bikes with my two children. I see it as a family activity – for my 8 and 6 year olds, it’s a great opportunity to learn about maintenance, safety and responsibility, whilst enjoying the great outdoors. I must confess I am also a bit of a book worm….I have studied for most of my life as I thoroughly enjoy learning new things – if I’m not at work or on the bike, I will be reading and researching – anything from trade skills to criminology!

2. Who or what inspires you?

It is a combination of both who and what. My children and their perspective on life! Back in my teaching days I stumbled across a saying – ‘Every child begins the world again’ – the way in which children see aspects of the world for the first time and verbalise their views on these aspects truly inspires me. We get so caught up in our old ways, to see and hear the world through the eyes of a child is at times just the medicine we need. Where we often catastrophise events, children will see them simply for what they are and will very often come up with pragmatic solutions – we just need to learn to open our ears and hearts to them more.

2. If you could change any one thing in this world, what would it be and why?

The way we as women constantly berate ourselves! We need to give ourselves both a break and some credit – not just for being who we are, but for what we each bring to the world, no matter how small or inconsequential we may feel it is. It is OK to not be the perfect version of ourselves that we think we should be, we are under so much pressure these days , how on earth are we ever expected to achieve ‘perfect’? To me the answer is this – we are simply not. Be kind to yourself, be gentle with yourself, and give yourself both permission and time to heal and grow so that you can be the best version of yourself.

4. Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

Ten years from now…hopefully alive! Let’s say that’s a given….I will have two teenagers on my hands by then, and they will be where they will be. For me, I’d like to see myself still in our home we are in now, still working the work I am presently doing. Plan B however, if my children ever decide to travel or relocate overseas, I have always had a dream of buying a little Chalet in Italy in the beautiful Valle D’Aosta, a place where I spent numerous mindful escapes whilst living in the UK. It will always hold a special place for me and I can very easily see myself there – even in ten years time!

Meet our featured beauty with brains Dr Rethika Ravi, a Lecturer and Creative Director based in Melbourne, Australia.

She is a mother, wife, daughter, and works as a lecturer at one of the reputed Universities in Melbourne and is also the Founder, Artistic and Creative Director of Shakthiswaraa School of Dance.

Feel free to check out her FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/shakthiswaraa-School-of-Dance-260725261260632/

Here is an interview with this multi-talented gorgeous lady:

1. Tell us more about yourself, what you do, your hobbies, passions etc.

I came to Melbourne in July 2000 as an International Student to pursue my master’s in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (RMIT University). I later completed my PhD in Oncology (RMIT) and was also awarded “Recognition for Outstanding achievement in Research – 2010” including publications and presentations to my credit. While in India, thanks to my parents I got trained in Classical Dance (Bharathnatyam) and Vocal – Indian Carnatic Music and Painting (oil and acrylic), Melbourne gave me opportunities to explore the world of arts and contribute to cultural awareness through dance and music. I have performed across various platforms both in India during the Reputed “December Margazhi Season 2017” and since 2003 in Melbourne. This year, I’ve been a part of the “Faces of Wyndham” Project, Ghost-Light series coordinated by the Wyndham Cultural center and featured in the “Star weekly” (June edition). Apart from being a passionate dancer, I am well-trained in Carnatic Vocal Music and perform regularly in Melbourne. I love playing the veena (string instrument too). I now have my own Dance school in Wyndham Vale (Shakthiswaraa School of Dance (Bharathnatyam – Kalakshetra/Tanjavoor Bhaani) established in March 2019) where I teach this traditional and ancient art form to anyone who aspires to learn it! Arts esp. dancing keeps me grounded whereas music and painting makes me find inner calm and peace…this is my form of meditation, devotion and my way of life. It has taught me self-control/time management/work-life balance, healed me and gives me happiness. I’ve always aimed at doing anything be it personal or professional with a lot of character and interest. My philosophy is “Never say I can’t, say I will try and give it your very best”!!! would seamlessly describe my life here so far…

2. You run a dance school. Who or what inspired you to start it?

I love teaching – something that comes naturally to me! Staring a dance school to expand my horizons is something my dad initiated me into. My family has undoubtedly been my pillars of support at every step of mine. They have never stopped me from pursuing my interests which I think has played a significant role so far. I had a break of 4 years in between but started dancing again in 2017 after my daughter was born (she just turned 4!). Inspiration otherwise for me comes from the accessibility to Hindu temples where arts and culture are strongly encouraged throughout the year, the diverse and challenging opportunities that has come my way which has helped me take my dancing/singing to the next level (by the way of performances at events/programs/concerts), choosing the music, choreographing, deciding the costumes, my enthusiastic groups of students, and of course. It gives me immense satisfaction to see my students perform, to see their confidence grow, and enables them to develop a deeper connection with the rich Indian heritage. With every performance, I learn, I improve and find the self-motivation to keep going.

3. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

(Smiles)!!! Mom of a teenager …

On the professional side, continue in the education and training industry (I love my job) On the personal side, would like to see my dance school grow. Would aim to teach as many people as I can and share the little that I know.

There is strength, grace and perfection in Bharathnatyam… it is not just the dance, it allows you to connect with your roots and express yourself truly. Inherent in it is deep meaning and complexity. Through Bharatanatyam you connect with the audience and yourself on an emotional level. It improves balance, flexibility, concentration and stamina by making the body and mind agile. It is a combination of music, poetry, movement and lots of storytelling. A performer needs to remember steps, names of the various steps, different moves, the beats and rhythm of the song. It is a centuries-old beautiful art form. For me personally, Bharathnatyam is sacred, it helps me connect to the divine. I aim and hope to impart this skill in dancing to budding artists!!!

4. What does women empowerment mean to you?

I’ve always believed that woman are very capable, versatile beings. Being independent, patient and perceiving our dreams is something that comes naturally to us. To me women empowerment is having the voice to freely express our emotions and thoughts, help build one another in encouraging ways, changing challenges to opportunities and having the willpower and determination to getting out of the comfort zone, and simply being yourself! In short, being strong and beautiful inside out 😊 and believing in our dreams! I play various roles and aspire to be an all-rounder, and, on that note, I wish the very best to all the wonderful women out there including the one who raised me and the one who I am raising! Always walk with your head held high, take pride in what you do and shine like a bright star!!!

A warm welcome to beauty with brains Kaveeta Prasad, who recently joined our fashion platform as a model. Her lovely smile dazzles and her bubbly personality is endearing.

Apart from fashion and modelling, she is passionate about helping people and working with kids. She enjoys walks, going to the gym, travel and meeting people from different backgrounds.

A warm welcome to beauty with brains Sony Reddy, who recently joined our fashion platform as a model. With her classic good looks and expressive eyes, she sure is a charmer.

Along with being a model, she is a fashion designer as well and owns The Pink Mirror Boutique (7 https://www.facebook.com/The-Pink-Mirror-104544564473112/

Her other hobbies are travelling, watching movies, cooking , painting, art and design.

“Wherever you go, becomes a part of you somehow.” We totally agree with this quote by Anita Desai. All the places we travel to; the memories, the experiences, the sights, the sounds, the adventures; everything fuses with our soul, living in us forever. Even though we are not able to travel right now, no one can take away from us, the experiences we have already had.

The aim of our ‘Travel Memories’ feature is to bring positivity to our readers by letting them experience virtual travel through the photos and to keep their own travel memories alive in their hearts.

Meet our featured beauty with brains Rebecca (Beks) Thompson, an Integrated Health and Personal Development Specialist based in Queensland, Australia.

As a mother, entrepreneur and wife, (in no particular order!) Beks understands the push-pull dynamic of trying to maintain life balance as well as be successful. As someone who went through 2 ½ years of chronic pain, depression and a sense of loss of purpose, she learnt that she had to get ‘out of her head’ to get the positive change she was yearning for. Through her own personal journey, Beks has gained wisdom and developed tools around how to BE AND PROSPER in all areas of life.

Beks teaches embodied practices that give instant WOW results so that you will learn:

How to be Seen and Heard in a powerfully authentic way
Be magnetic and attract the business and attention you want – no more push/pull!
How to keep energy and stress levels on an even keel

Beks shares with truth, humour, presence and passion essential tools you need to master in order to be a beacon as an inspirational leader or business owner and thrive personally at the same time.

Beks Thompson is an integrated health and personal development specialist and sought after inspirational speaker. She is the founder and creator of BE A BEACON and is highly regarded as a leader in her industry. With 25 years under her belt as a physio, yoga teacher, presence teacher and coach, she has had her own journey from burnout to brilliance. Through this journey Beks has forged a unique and truly holistic way of working with conscious people who want to live with peace, passion and purpose, making a positive impact in the world, without the burnout! She lives on Bribie Island with her husband of 27 years, 2 teenage boys and mini labradoodle, the only other girl!. She is continuously mastering the dynamic balance of her passions at work, play and family.

Here is an interview with her

1. What are your goals in life? Have you achieved them?

My primary goal is to live my highest life. I am always evolving and am totally committed to that ongoing journey, so that my mind doesn’t limit my own peace and joy or stop me from stepping up to help others on their own journey. For me it’s not about a linear path with a destination, but a deepening connection to a higher power that creates an abiding faith. I am then more able to hear and follow the divine impulses that arise as to what is next.

2. What does women empowerment mean to you?

The realisation, reclaiming and embodiment of the divine feminine in her most powerful, vulnerable, sensual, creative and receptive Self. It is feeling safe to be fully expressed, compassionate and present, without need to compete, judge or devalue ourselves or others. It is the acknowledgement of a higher power flowing through us and that we don’t have to hold the control or the weight of the world on our shoulders.

3. Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

I can feel the ripple effect from the Be a Beacon Programme I run for women continuing to expand, welcoming more and more women into our growing community and those currently within the programme taking on more leadership and training roles. When the world opens up again, I will be sharing my time between OZ, Bali and India as they feel like my second and third homes. Bali is already a part of our programme and India will become an advanced level and there will evolve a philanthropic aspect/foundation for our sisters in India. I can also feel a move to the country happening by then from our current island home in QLD. Both my husband and I have a heart’s desire for the green hills and even more simplicity, once our children leave home.

4. If you could change anything in this world, what would it be and why?

It would have to be Peace. That the world awakens to the destructive force that we can be towards each other, the planet and within our own selves. Peace would be the greatest gift.

Feel free to check out her FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/rebeccabeabeacon/

Meet our featured beauty with brains Gagan Preet, an IT professional and YouTuber based in Sydney, Australia. This immensely talented lady has her own YouTube channel ‘Gagan’s Kitchen’.

https://m.youtube.com/user/gaganpreet0705

Here is an interview with her:

1. Tell us more about yourself – your hobbies, dreams etc.

Well, currently I am working with an RTO called BSI Learning, as an Education Resource Officer where I organise resources and process despatch for our Corrective Services NSW. I am an Electronics Engineer and have worked for many IT distributors, companies like HCL and L&T.

Cooking and gardening are my passions and sometimes I like to read books and go for shopping to find new cooking appliances, crockery to serve etc. I have recently started my YouTube channel ‘Gagan’s Kitchen’ and want to fly high with my cooking passion.

2. You run a cooking channel on YouTube. Who or what inspired you to start the channel?

As I said above, I am passionate about cooking and wanted to do something in this area. My family and friends encouraged me to start this channel and share my skill there.

3. Can you share some simple healthy cooking tips for busy women?

Planning ahead is the most important tip for working women.

a. Plan what you are going to cook and pack from Monday to Friday for breakfast, snacks, fruits, Lunch and dinner.

b. Make a list of grocery that you planned for the week, shop them and stick to it.

c. Cut corners with convenience e.g. chop fresh vegetables on weekend and freeze them rather than using super market’s frozen meals or vegetables.

d. For Indian cooking, if you plan to cook beans like kidney beans, black eye beans, Chic peas etc. soak them in reasonable water and freeze them all. In Indian families these are usually cooked every 2nd week or in some houses every week.

e. Do not be afraid to make enough gravy masalas (this way you use less oil as well) and put that in fridge. So, when you have gravy masala ready and soaked beans in the fridge, you just need to put in pressure cooker and done.

f. If you are a non vegetarian, then marinate meats or chicken in different flavours and use for working days. Just put them in oven or air fryer and by the time you will change and come back to kitchen food is ready, chop some fresh salad and serve dinner.

g. You can also cook rice, put them in containers and freeze them/ buy instant pots cookers etc. many options and technologies are available in the market. You can put them on timer or some appliances are wi-fi connected just use them.

There are so many other options and I am starting to share these tips on my YouTube channel Gagan’s Kitchen soon.

4. Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

I would love to start my own business in the food industry.

A warm welcome to beauty with brains Piyali Chatterjee, also known as Mou, who recently joined our fashion platform as a model. This gorgeous belle, with her lustrous curls and cute smile, enthralls one and all.

“Hi, I’m Mou Chatterjee, a wife, a mother and a working professional based here in Sydney, Australia. I strive to strike a good balance between these roles of mine, doing justice to each one of them to the best of my abilities. I work as a customer service assistant with one of Australia’s largest Retailers.

I grew up in Kolkata, India and moved to Mumbai after my marriage and eventually to Sydney which I have now known as home for the last decade. While growing up and all through my formative years I have always been interested and fascinated by the world of fashion. I found the men and women of the industry exude confidence in all their appearances, be it on ramps, magazines or advertisements. They always inspired me to take care of my appearance, well being and have a positive outlook towards life. This early interest in Fashion and all things related helped me develop my keen sense of styling and I believe I am equally adept at carrying both traditional and western attires. I am sociable, friendly and confident and believe in giving my best in everything I decide to get into.” – Piyali.