Venkat Raman
Auckland, September 21, 2024
Sneha Sathish is preparing to appear at the Miss Universe New Zealand 2024 contest scheduled to be held on September 29, 2024 at Dorothy Winstone Centre, Auckland Girls Grammar School in Auckland Central Business District.
She was the Third Runner-Up and Social Media Queen at the Miss Canterbury competition on March 17, 2024 in Christchurch.
With a background in healthcare and a goal to explore Business, Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), Sneha embraces her cultural heritage, forging a dynamic path.
A Founder of ‘Rhythm of Hope,’ a dance collective dedicated to spreading cultural vibrancy through workshops and performances, she has helped raise funds for ‘I am Hope,’ reflecting her commitment to community support and cultural enrichment.
Sneha’s journey is about breaking barriers, inspiring others, and demonstrating that authenticity and diversity are powerful tools for change.
Her participation in Miss Universe New Zealand is a testament to her belief that every young woman of colour has the potential to make a significant impact, showing that their voices matter and their dreams are within reach.
A transformative experience
“Participating in Miss IndiaNZ, hosted at Auckland SkyCity, was a transformative experience for me. It provided a platform to break out of my shell and celebrate myself. The journey through the competition allowed me to embrace my strengths, showcase my talents, and connect with others who shared similar aspirations. Standing on that stage, under the spotlight, I felt a sense of empowerment and confidence that I had never experienced before. It was a moment of self-discovery and growth, reminding me of the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new opportunities,” she said.
According to Sneha, stepping onto the stage of Ms Canterbury was not just about wearing a crown but also about wearing her identity proudly.
“It is about standing tall, adorned in the vibrant colours of my heritage, and shining a spotlight on the rich tapestry of Indian traditions, values, and resilience. In a world where diversity is celebrated, yet often misunderstood, I see this platform as an opportunity to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and ignite a spirit of unity. Through my journey, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own cultural backgrounds with pride and confidence, knowing that our differences are what make us beautifully unique,” she said.
An Empowering Path
Sneha said that with every step that she takes on what has been described as an ‘empowering path,’ she is reminded that she is not representing myself, but a community, legacy, and vision for a brighter, more inclusive future.
“So, as I embark on this journey, I carry with me the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of generations past and present, knowing that by embracing my Indian heritage, I am lighting the way for others to do the same. I feel truly honoured to embrace my identity as a Kiwi-Indian woman,” she said.
(Photo Supplied)
Sneha worked as a Residential Assistant during her academic years at Dunedin.
The role accorded her training in dealing with mental health concerns and sensitive topics such as sexual assaults.
“This sparked my interest in working with young people hence I decided to take a year off medicine. My current role as a Community Manager is dynamic and multifaceted, requiring strong interpersonal skills, empathy, organisational abilities, and a genuine passion for supporting and enriching the lives of young people within the community,” she said.
Prioritising Health
Sneha believes that prioritising health and well-being events is essential for supporting the overall wellness of residents and creating a positive living environment.
These events should include fitness classes, mindfulness workshops, mental health awareness sessions, nutrition seminars, and wellness challenges.
“By offering a variety of health and well-being activities, I am able to provide residents with resources and opportunities to prioritise their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These events promote healthy lifestyle habits, stress management techniques, and self-care practices, empowering residents to lead balanced and fulfilling lives,” she said.
Sneha considers herself fortunate to have the online presence of Michelle Cogger, the Administrative Ambassador of Purple High Tea.
She shared insightful information about the support services, Gumboot Friday and created a beautiful ambience.
“The residents were enquiring and talking about I am Hope and Gumboot Friday during the high tea. The residents were provided with resources from the Gumboot Friday website,” she said.
