The beach is the best place to freshen up the mind, reduce the stress level and seek the inner and outer peace, says Shalini Nair, our Model of the Fortnight.
To thousands of teenagers like her, the sea symbolises the vastness of knowledge yet to be attained, while its waves create hope and ambition.
Born in Fiji, she migrated to New Zealand when she was three years old.
Her first year at Randwick School in Lower Hutt was somewhat traumatic, as she was not conversant in English.
“English is not my first language and hence I was apprehensive. However, my ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) teacher not only instilled confidence in me but also taught me to speak and write in good English. Now, as a student at the Hutt Valley School, I have achieved a good level of proficiency in the language,” she said.
As well as English, she has evinced interest in arts and tourism, which, according to her, would shape her career and future.
She hopes to be a flight attendant or a travel consultant.
Shalini says she has the best mother in the world.
“She is understanding, supportive and courageous. It is not easy for a single mother to migrate to a country that is vastly different in culture, language, education and business. She has struggled to establish herself in life and inspire me to set targets and reach them through hard work,” she said.
Shalini is grateful to Shimal Chandra (who was our Model of Fortnight in July 15, 2012) for encouraging her to enter the Miss India Wellington Contest and Photographer Bhikhu Bhula for his excellent work behind the camera.
“As well as being great sources of strength and encouragement, they made me believe in my own values. They gave life to the statement, ‘Be what you want to be; and do what you want to do; do not worry about others.’ Those words reverberate in my ears all the time,” Shalini said.
-Venkat Raman
Photography: Bhikhu Bhula
For more pictures of Shalini Nair, visit www.indiannewslink.co.nz. These pictures appearing in our print and web editions are the intellectual property of Indian Newslink, Bhikhu Bhula. Any reproduction in any form for private, public, commercial or non-commercial purposes is prohibited and any breach would be an offence under the relevant laws in force.
If you wish to sponsor our Model of the Fortnight or try your luck being a Model in our series, please contact Bhikhu Bhula on (04) 3887861 or 021-0616030
Email: bqbhula@hotmail.com
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