Indian women should play an active part in the community to keep in touch with their culture, says Kaashta Khullar, our Model of the Fortnight.
“I think one should have the ability to build relationships while pursuing opportunities. This goes beyond personal life. Relationships are essential to succeed in a work environment and to gain respect,” she said.
Born in Chandigarh in the North Indian State of Punjab, Kaashta moved to New Zealand with her family in 2003 when she was very young.
While her parents live in Tauranga, she is currently pursuing a graduate course in Commerce (majoring in Accounting and Commercial Law) at University of Auckland and hopes to become a successful businesswoman.
Like many youngsters of her age, Kaashta found it difficult to find a sensible balance between the two cultures but realised the importance of incorporating ‘the New Zealander and Indian’ in her, while engaging with people.
Entering the Miss Indianz beauty pageant last year enabled her to emerge from her comfort zone and perceive the community and the world better.
“I was honoured to represent Tauranga and demonstrate our Indian culture and heritage at the competition,” she said.
Kaashta says she is fortunate that her family is supportive of her efforts but believes that people should be able to take decisions about their life and career on their own.
“I believe that one should be independent to discover opportunities and undertake responsibilities. I think that I have done so in the last two years with my studies and hope to take advantage of other opportunities in the future,” she said,
Modelling is her other interest, which she said, has boosted her confidence.
“I have not always felt confident in everything that I pursue, but I’m glad that I tried things that were out of my comfort zone. I would encourage people to take a leap of faith sometime in their life, as you may surprise yourself with what you achieve.”
-Venkat Raman
Photography: Bhikhu Bhula
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