In a celebration of cultural richness and timeless elegance, the recent photoshoot titled “Heritage Hues” organised by She Magazine & Empowered BWB in collaboration with The Tradition Collection Boutique, transported viewers into the enchanting world of Gujarati and Rajasthani traditions. Showcasing a mesmerising array of outfits and exquisite jewellery, the photoshoot beautifully intertwined the vibrant heritage of these two culturally rich regions of India.

Stunning models adorned in intricately crafted garments and ornate jewellery brought to life the essence of Gujarati and Rajasthani culture. Each ensemble reflected the unique craftsmanship and attention to detail synonymous with these regions.

Many thanks to Light Antana Photography for the amazing photos.

The purpose of our fashion features, fashion shows, 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.

The Joy of Bringing Newness into Existence

by Vanessa Finnigan

Have you ever wondered why some people create a business?

I can share a bit about what motivated me fifteen years ago to create a free holistic lifestyle magazine from scratch. Like many people who create a business from nothing, there is a feeling of wanting to contribute to others and make a difference in people’s lives. There is so much excitement and joy dreaming up a new creation and bringing it into existence! And that energy can in fact power a whole community (ha ha, you certainly do require that energy to bring something new into existence like a magazine!).

It’s an experience that is really beyond words. At the same time, it has many challenges, and I shed a few tears as I sit here and reflect on some of those both on a personal level and on a global level and wonder sometimes how I kept creating the magazine and kept being me.

That’s the entrepreneur’s journey though, acting on inspiration, making consistent steps to actualise the dream and keep the wheels moving. And what many people don’t realise, is it requires consistent digging deep to do the inner work so that the creation grows and expands and takes on a life of its own.

And what an experience to contribute energy to a collective creation, which also empowers others to share their uniqueness and wow when that collective energy gets shared into the world, it becomes a healing modality in and of itself!

Perhaps you are reading this and have always wanted to create a business, but you were very quickly faced with thoughts such as, “what if my idea doesn’t work, what if nobody responds and people laugh at my attempts.” Or you see someone else appearing to do a business project ‘better’ and get hit by ‘comparison-itis’. The entrepreneurial/pioneering journey in many ways is a spiritual journey, it requires you to access the gold within and share that new vision, even if at first, it’s not understood or fully embraced. There is no-one else on the planet like you, so your creations will also be unique!

If you can delve deep and find those old limiting belief systems underneath those thoughts, such as: “I’m not good enough”, “I’m too much”, “I’m a fraud”, “I’m not worthy” and then do the ‘inner work’ in whatever ways call you to shine the light on those beliefs and really honestly ask yourself, (as if you were your best friend), if they are in fact the truth. Over time, these old beliefs then lose their power to derail and sabotage your joyful dreams being brought into existence.

I am forever grateful for creating Holistic Bliss, which has now been downloaded in 59 countries and I am excited to say, Happy 15th Birthday, and we’ve only just begun…

http://www.holisticblissmagazine.com

The International Women’s Day event organised by Empowered BWB and She Magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au) in collaboration with USANA Australia, Harman Foundation, The Superconscious Academy & The USANA Foundation emerged as an outstanding success by seamlessly blending inspiration, empowerment, and celebration. Women from diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, charity founders, artists, and mothers, came together to embody the essence of women power.

Castle Hill MP Mark Hodges Mark Hodges lent his voice to the cause, eloquently speaking about the imperative of women’s empowerment in today’s society.

A transformative mindset coaching and brain rewiring session orchestrated by the esteemed Coach Lydia Bynil, left participants in awe and set the stage for a day of inspiration.

Tiya Gorain and Alpana Srivastava shared insights into our organisations’ efforts to support, uplift, and inspire women. Special coaching programs in fashion, styling, health, finance, and success were launched, expanding avenues for personal and professional growth.

Sarita Verma and Casey Zhang addressed women’s health and wellness, fostering awareness and understanding as well as enlightening the audience. Many thanks to Baktash & Patricia Martinez for all the support.

Harinder Kaur Ji, the visionary owner of the Harman Foundation, passionately shared her charity’s endeavors in uplifting women, adding a philanthropic dimension to the day.

The event showcased the perspectives of successful entrepreneurs and community leaders such as Neha Marshuwala, Smita Sharma, Jasleen Kukreja, Mona Kukreja, Kiran Walia, Manbeen Walia, Rim, Nadine Maroney, Davinder Sethi, Ash Sundaram etc on what women empowerment means to them.

A heartfelt thank you to Harmohan Walia Photography for capturing the essence of the day through stunning photos. Many thanks to Wild Bunch Florist for the lovely flowers.

Overcoming Self-doubt and Confidence Issues

By Tiya Gorain

Self-doubt and confidence issues can be crippling, especially when fuelled by a harsh inner critic. The journey to overcome these challenges is a personal one, requiring a combination of self-reflection, resilience, and intentional actions. In this article, we explore practical strategies to break free from the shackles of self-doubt and build lasting confidence.

• Cultivate Self-Awareness: The first step in conquering self-doubt is to become aware of the patterns of your inner critic. Pay attention to the negative thoughts that arise in various situations. Understanding when and why self-doubt emerges empowers you to tackle it head-on.

• Challenge Negative Thoughts: Once you’ve identified your inner critic, challenge its validity. Question the accuracy of self-deprecating thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of past achievements and focus on your strengths rather than dwelling on perceived shortcomings.

As one of my clients prepared for her important job interview, her inner critic whispered doubts about her qualifications and ability to impress the interviewers. I asked her to take a moment and challenge these thoughts, questioning their accuracy. She reflected on her past successes and reminded herself of the praise she had received for her contributions in previous roles. Instead of dwelling on perceived shortcomings, she focused on her strong work ethic and problem-solving skills. With a newfound confidence, she went to the interview, showcasing her strengths and ultimately landing the job. The shift from self-doubt to positive affirmations proved to be a powerful tool in overcoming her inner critic and achieving success.

• Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and encourage you. Seek out friends, family, or mentors who provide constructive feedback and support. Having a reliable network can counteract the impact of your inner critic and offer a fresh perspective on your abilities.

• Embrace Failure as Growth: Shift your mindset towards failure. Instead of viewing setbacks as confirmation of your limitations, see them as opportunities for growth. Learn from mistakes, adapt, and use each experience as a stepping stone toward improvement.

When one of my client’s ambitious project faced an unexpected setback, she initially felt disheartened, viewing it as a confirmation of her limitations. However, determined to shift her mindset towards failure with my help, she chose to see the setback as an opportunity for growth. Analysing the situation, she identified key lessons, learned from her mistakes, and adapted her approach. Instead of letting the setback define her, she used it as a stepping stone toward improvement. This shift in perspective not only allowed her to overcome the challenge but also propelled her to greater success in future endeavors, highlighting the transformative power of embracing setbacks as opportunities for personal and professional growth.

• Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks. Celebrate small victories along the way, gradually expanding your comfort zone. Success in these smaller endeavors contributes significantly to building confidence and mitigating self-doubt.

• Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine. Stay present in the moment to prevent your mind from dwelling on self-critical thoughts. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindful exercises can help calm the mind and foster a positive mindset.

Overcoming self-doubt and confidence issues caused by a harsh inner critic is a transformative journey. Cultivating self-awareness, challenging negative thoughts, building a supportive network, embracing failure, setting realistic goals, and practicing mindfulness are key strategies. Remember, building confidence is an ongoing process, and every step forward is a victory.

Resistance to Change: A Hurdle to Accomplishing Goals

By Tiya Gorain

Often, what hinders our progress towards achieving our goals and aspirations is our inherent resistance to change. It’s perplexing how we often meticulously outline our ambitions but falter in their realisation. This stagnation often stems from our ingrained habits and routines. Embracing change can be scary; it symbolises relinquishing familiar territories, sparking apprehensions about potential setbacks. Moreover, the unpredictability of outcomes further increases our hesitations. Reflect upon this: could your reluctance to embrace change be the very obstacle stopping you from achieving your goals?

Resistance to change is deeply rooted in human psychology. Our innate desire for stability and predictability often leads us to cling to familiar patterns, even when they hinder growth. This reluctance stems from a primal fear of the unknown, where change signifies venturing into uncharted territories. Furthermore, past experiences, especially failures, can cement this resistance, creating a protective shield against potential disappointments.

To surmount this resistance and pave the way for goal attainment, a conscious shift in mindset and approach is imperative. Firstly, acknowledging and understanding the underlying fears associated with change is crucial. It’s essential to recognise and comprehend the fears that come with change. By taking a closer look at these concerns, we can break them down and understand why they make us hesitant. Once we identify these underlying fears, we can then develop specific strategies to address and lessen them. This might involve seeking guidance, gathering more information, or taking small steps to gradually introduce change, making the process feel less overwhelming. By dissecting these apprehensions, we can develop strategies to mitigate them.

In addition to understanding our fears, adopting a growth mindset is pivotal. Instead of viewing challenges as threats, see them as opportunities for learning and growth. Embracing this perspective shift allows us to approach change with a more positive and open attitude. By focusing on the potential benefits and lessons that come with change, rather than solely on the risks, we can navigate transitions more confidently. This mindset encourages resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones, ultimately propelling us closer to achieving our goals.

In essence, transcending resistance to change is pivotal in realising our aspirations. By confronting our fears, embracing adaptability, and cultivating a growth-oriented mindset, we can dismantle the barriers obstructing our path to success.

Meet our member Jigna Shroff, event organiser and owner of The Jalwa Club. Her journey from a budding entrepreneur to the esteemed owner of a thriving event business and her unparalleled dedication and vision are truly inspiring. Her events are nothing short of spectacular; each meticulously planned affair reflects her innate ability to blend creativity with precision.

Here is an interview with her:

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

I was born and brought up in Mumbai and am married with two grown up kids, a pet and a family of 4. I am currently working as Finance & Ops Manager. I love reading books, yoga, making new friends and meeting new people around the globe. I love to learn cultures of different places and to travel around the globe.

2. You organise events. Who or what inspired you to be an event organiser?

Jalwa was started in 2016 with a small gathering of girls and eventually entered into events with a passion to make new friends and also meet people. Organising events gave me a chance to follow my passion of designing what I had learned back in India.

3. What strategies do you employ to create memorable experiences for attendees and ensure they have a positive impression of the event?

Engagement of audience is very important for any event, the more the audience is engaged the more they feel valued, cherished, and have a memorable and enjoyable evening. At Jalwa it always begins with an ice breaker game where the audiences is involved to interact with each other and feel at ease. Jalwa started with a cocktail style party, that was the whole idea and has always got a variety of different experiences for the audience and our sponsors, supporters, family and friends.

4. Any tips for those wanting to enter the events business?

As every business, an event business does have its pros and cons, but staying focused on what you want and ignoring what doesn’t serve you, is the key. Look at the larger picture than the small bits and pieces. There are a few things to take into consideration: Identify your niche & audiences. Build a strong network. Provide excellent customer service and be a people’s person. Stay calm, focused and keep learning & improving as to how you can do better each day.

Diwali, the festival of lights, joy, and prosperity, resonated with unparalleled splendour at the recent grand Diwali event organised by Empowered BWB, She Magazine & Usana Australia; that left attendees spellbound. Hosted with meticulous planning and an eye for detail, the event was a harmonious blend of cultural celebration and modern entertainment. Here’s a glimpse into this unforgettable evening that had something for everyone.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the fashion show, where models showcased a stunning array of traditional and contemporary designs. The runway was a spectacle of colours, fabrics, and craftsmanship. The extremely talented designer Kavena Ramakrishnan looked mesmerising in her own design.

The event transformed into a bustling bazaar with stalls offering an eclectic mix of merchandise. From exquisite handcrafted jewelry to vibrant home décor items, attendees indulged in a shopping spree, discovering unique treasures and gifts for loved ones.

The cultural performances were a testament to the rich heritage and diversity of India. They infused energy and excitement, keeping attendees entertained and engaged throughout the evening.

No Diwali celebration is complete without indulging in mouth-watering delicacies, and this event was no exception. From traditional Indian cuisines to festive specialties like sweets, snacks, and beverages, the culinary offerings were a treat for the taste buds, ensuring that no one left hungry. And the best part was that all the food was free!

Castle Hill MP (Member of Parliament) Mark Hodges delivered an inspiring speech that resonated deeply with attendees. Emphasising unity, diversity, and community strength, he highlighted the significance of Diwali as a symbol of light triumphing over darkness.

The emcee Vijaya Joshi showcased unparalleled professionalism, effortlessly captivating the audience throughout. Her vibrant personality and ability to connect with the audience ensured a memorable experience for everyone.

In essence, the grand Diwali event was a resounding success, encapsulating the essence of the festival with its blend of fashion, festivities, performances, music, and culinary delights. It served as a platform for artists, designers, performers, and attendees to come together, celebrate, and create cherished memories. As the lights shimmered, the music played, and the aroma of delicious food filled the air, it was a true reflection of the spirit of Diwali – a celebration of light, love, and unity.

Meet our member, the stunning and talented DJ Sasha, who seamlessly blends beauty, talent, and technical expertise. A captivating DJ and accomplished IT professional, she navigates the worlds of music and technology with equal finesse. With an innate ability to set the perfect rhythm on the dance floor, her DJ skills are matched only by her prowess in the realm of information technology. Beyond her professional achievements, she channels her creativity into organising extraordinary and fun-filled events that leave lasting memories. This dynamic woman embodies the perfect harmony of artistic flair and technical acumen, making her a true force to be reckoned with in both the entertainment and technology spheres. Check out her website: https://sashaclub.com

Here is an interview with her:

1. Can you tell us about your journey in the IT industry and how you manage to balance a demanding job with being a mom?

Balancing a career in IT with being a mom has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding. I’ve learned to prioritize and manage my time efficiently to ensure that both my professional and personal responsibilities are met. It’s essential to have a support system in place, and I’m fortunate to have a network of friends and family who understand the demands of my multiple roles.

2. You’re not only successful in IT but also a passionate DJ. How did you discover your love for music, and how do you integrate this passion into your life?

Music has always been a source of joy for me. I discovered my love for DJing during my college days, and over the years, it has evolved into a significant part of my life. I believe it’s essential to make time for jithings that bring you happiness. I’ve incorporated my passion into my life by organizing Bollywood events through Sasha Club, providing a platform for talented artists and creating an environment where people can come together to celebrate music.

3. You’ve been actively involved in hosting Bollywood events and bringing talented artists to Australia. How do you see this contributing to women empowerment in the entertainment industry?

Hosting Bollywood events and bringing talented artists to Australia is my way of contributing to the diversity and empowerment of women in the entertainment industry. I aim to showcase not only the vibrant culture of Bollywood but also the talent of versatile artists. By providing a platform for women in music and entertainment, I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions fearlessly.

4. You’ve recently ventured into Real Estate. How did this interest develop, and how do you see it aligning with your broader life goals?

My interest in Real Estate developed as I saw it as an opportunity to diversify my skills and investments. It aligns with my broader life goals of financial stability and creating a secure future for my family. Real Estate is a dynamic field, and I enjoy working with reputable companies to provide value to customers by helping them find their dream homes or investment properties.

5. What advice do you have for women who are juggling multiple roles and trying to pursue their passions while maintaining a successful career?

My advice would be to prioritize self-care and set realistic goals. It’s crucial to surround yourself with a supportive network, delegate tasks when possible, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Find joy in your passions and make time for them, as they can be a source of strength and resilience. Stay focused on your goals, believe in yourself, and don’t be afraid to embrace your unique journey.

6. You’ve mentioned the importance of having a supportive network. How have your friends played a role in your journey, and can you share a specific instance where their support made a significant impact on your career or personal growth?

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have a network of friends who have been pillars of support throughout my journey. One close friend, in particular, has played a crucial role. She not only cheers me on during successes but, more importantly, acts as a constructive critic. She doesn’t shy away from pointing out my weaknesses and faults, pushing me to continuously improve. This blend of encouragement and constructive feedback has been instrumental in my personal and professional development. Having friends who accept you for who you are while challenging you to be your best self is invaluable.

7. Your upcoming event, Indo Folk House on December 30th, sounds intriguing. Can you tell us more about the concept behind it and what attendees can expect from this unique music experience?

Absolutely! Indo Folk House is a passion project that stems from my desire to bridge the gap between mainstream Bollywood music and the vibrant world of house and techno beats. I’ve always believed in the power of music to transcend boundaries and create a unique vibe. This event aims to blend Indian cultural elements with the energy of house and techno, offering a refreshing and distinctive music experience. I’ve curated a lineup that brings together the richness of Indian folk music with the pulsating rhythms of house and techno. I invite the community and music lovers to join me on December 30th for an unforgettable night. Tickets are available on our website, http://www.sashaclub.com, and I hope to receive the support of everyone who appreciates something different in the world of music. Let’s create memorable moments together!

Instagram: https://instagram.com/djsashasydneyofficial

Linked in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/varsha-banker?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

The Ethical Power of Neuromarketing: Understanding and Serving Customer Needs

By Tiya Gorain

In the dynamic world of marketing, understanding consumer behavior has always been a top priority for brands and companies. Neuromarketing has emerged as a powerful tool that not only delves into the intricacies of the human mind but also seeks to do so in an ethical manner. This innovative field combines the principles of neuroscience and marketing to decipher the desires and needs of customers, allowing brands to serve them better. In this article, we will explore what neuromarketing is, and why it is ethical as it helps brands understand their customers more profoundly.

What is Neuromarketing?

Neuromarketing is a multidisciplinary field that combines neuroscience, psychology, and marketing to examine how consumers’ brains respond to various marketing stimuli. It delves into the subconscious processes that influence purchasing decisions, shedding light on the emotional and cognitive factors that drive consumer behavior. Through advanced techniques such as brain imaging, eye-tracking, and physiological measurements, neuromarketers can gain insights into how consumers react to advertisements, products, and branding.

Ethical Foundations of Neuromarketing

Neuromarketing is often questioned for its ethical implications, particularly concerning privacy and manipulation. However, when applied responsibly, neuromarketing can be a powerful tool for brands to better understand and serve their customers. Here’s why it is ethical:

• Informed Consent: Ethical neuromarketing studies prioritise obtaining informed consent from participants. Individuals willingly participate in these studies, knowing their data will be used to improve products and services. This transparency builds trust between brands and consumers.

• Improved User Experience: Neuromarketing can help brands create products and services that cater to the specific needs and desires of consumers. This results in an improved user experience, where customers receive what they genuinely want, thereby enhancing their satisfaction.

• Reduction of Unwanted Marketing: By understanding consumer preferences at a deeper level, brands can avoid bombarding customers with irrelevant or annoying advertisements. This, in turn, reduces the intrusion of unwanted marketing messages.

• Customised Offerings: Ethical neuromarketing leads to the development of personalised marketing strategies. Tailoring offers and recommendations based on individual preferences not only benefits customers but also reduces marketing waste.

• Ethical Advertising: Brands can use neuromarketing insights to create advertisements that are emotionally resonant and genuinely engaging. This leads to the creation of advertising that people find enjoyable, rather than manipulative.

Serving Customers Better

Neuromarketing provides brands with a unique opportunity to serve their customers better by understanding their needs and desires at a deep, subconscious level. Here’s how it helps:

• Product Development: Neuromarketing helps in the creation of products that align with consumers’ preferences, leading to more satisfying experiences.

• Targeted Marketing: By knowing what captures the attention of the target audience, brands can craft marketing campaigns that are more engaging and relevant.

• Enhanced User Experience: Through neuro insights, brands can improve the usability and design of their products or services, resulting in a more user-friendly experience.

• Efficient Advertising: Neuromarketing allows brands to allocate their advertising budgets more efficiently, ensuring that their messages reach the right audience.

Neuromarketing is an ethical and powerful tool for brands and companies to better understand and serve their customers. By responsibly leveraging the insights gained from this multidisciplinary field, businesses can create products, marketing strategies, and advertising campaigns that truly resonate with consumers. In doing so, they not only improve customer satisfaction but also build trust and foster long-lasting relationships with their target audience. The ethical power of neuromarketing lies in its ability to bridge the gap between businesses and their customers, ensuring that their needs and desires are at the forefront of all marketing efforts.