1440 mins a day!

Yes,  friends, we have 1440 mins a day to use and it all depends on us, how we can use it constructively. Life is really getting busier for womenfolk, especially mothers who have to be a real multitasker to take care of her all responsibilities. Time flies and then we realize we could have managed it better, only if we were aware of it. If the woman is working then she has to schedule her time as per requirement by her job. If not working then she has to manage her time as per her family. It is all about how you can make these 1440 mins productive for yourself which can help you to lead a happy life. Here are some tips, which can help you to manage your time better way-

1.The habit of listing–  Use your phone to make your lists as in present times the phone is always in hands. There are many apps in which you can make your lists. Download one such app and just list about all important matters in life.

2. Pomodoro technique–  The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method. The technique breaks work into intervals, traditionally 25 mins separated by short breaks.The method is based on the idea that frequent breaks can improve mental agility. For working women, this method is really helpful as it helps in keeping social media distractions at the bay.

3. Work smarter, not harder– Mantra for the day should be Work smarter not harder. Instead of having a robotic approach for work, try to be thoughtful and always ask yourself if something can be done more efficiently or eliminated altogether. Managing your time isn’t about squeezing as many tasks into your day as possible. It’s about simplifying how you work, doing things faster, and relieving stress.

4. Plan your day– A workday is busy, so you really have only one chance to plan what you’re going to do. Physically writing the list and prioritizing the sequence can be really helpful.The morning is the most important time to think “What have I got to do today?”

5. Be mindful of time spending over social media-  Time spent browsing Twitter or gaming or watching TV and movies can be one of the biggest drains on productivity. Once we become aware of how much time we spend on these activities we can control it.  Give a thought about how much time gets wasted every time you check your notification or browse through feeds. It is very important to remember that your day is more real than people’s update.

6. Do something during a waiting time- We tend to have a lot of time when we don’t do many things.Waiting rooms, lines at stores, waiting for the doctor, there are many such times which you can use productively.

Our goal should be to arrange our tasks in such a way that we are happily carrying all tasks. Usually, we get caught up so much in the busyness of work that we forget to enjoy our work.It’s all about clearing away space in life and make time for people, play, and rest.

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting excellence in women!

Meet RJ turned entrepreneur Mehak. She left the glamorous world of radio to pursue her passion for entrepreneurship. Formally known as RJ Mehak, is now running her own events company Out of  the Box Creationz. In last 3 years, she has organized many events and now she is very excited about her upcoming event, Sunidhi Chauhan show on 30th September 2016.

1.Please share with our readers’ little bit about yourself?

I came to Singapore from Mumbai, India for a year to start the Hindi radio station. I was a science student but my first job was that of a radio presenter/announcer and I went on to do my journalism later.

2. So when did you venture into this venture and what inspired or motivated you to take a plunge into this venture?

I was in the entertainment industry for more than 10 years.  I had been a Radio DJ most my life and had to do something to go a step further. Starting an event management firm was a natural choice. I could put all my experience, network, contacts, and skill set to use.

3. Can you share with us some of the challenges you faced during your initial days?

Every startup has many ups and downs. We had our share. Starting with getting the right people in the small budgets you have as a small business. For me, it was a learning curve where I learned to see the business from the other side of the coin. From selling to marketing, executing, sustaining, it’s been quite a journey. The biggest challenge was to break the image of an RJ and establishing one of a serious Business Person.

4. So how do you balance your personal and professional life?

At home, I take as much help as I can from my lovely helper, parents, husband, parents-in-law, friends. At work I got more hands to support. I tried becoming more focused. My priorities changed and I do have a limited social life.

5. What would you suggest to other aspiring women who want to venture out on their own?

Plan before you start. A Good Business Plan is essential and has absolute faith in yourself even if anyone tells you, it is not possible or you can’t do it or it’s tough. Everything falls into place if you have the right attitude and approach.

6. Is there any person who has mentored/supported/inspired you?

Oh, I have many people who have mentored, supported, inspired me. Starting with my Mom, Dad, Husband, Daughter, My sisters, teachers, Ex Bosses, Partners, Associates, Colleagues. There is something to learn from every person I feel.

7. What do you have in the pipeline for your venture’s future development?

We have the plans to go big in the next year. Apart from bringing great entertainment events to Singapore, we plan to expand more in neighboring countries. As well as do more of Wedding Business.

Please visit https://www.facebook.com/OutOfTheBoxCreationz/?pnref=lhc to get to know more about Out of the box creationz.

Womenlines wishes best of success to Sunidhi Chauhan and appreciates her 

dedication and hard work in the music field. Here is a message straight from Sunidhi, which is especially for Women Lines readers sharing the motivation source behind her success.Her husky and mellow voice has got her win hearts all over the world with tracks like Kamli (Dhoom 3) , Mere Sang (New York), Bhage Re Mann (Chameli), Gun Gun Guna (Agneepath, Sheila Ki Jawani (Tees maar Khan), Desi Girl (Dostana), Hey Shona ( Tara Rum Pam ), Saaki (Musafir), Aaja Nach Le, Beedi (Omkara), Chhaliya (Tashan), Chor Bazaari (Love Aaj Kal), Yaaram ( Ek Thi Dayan), Dance Like a chhamiya.  The Indisputable Diva of Bollywood Playback, Sunidhi Chauhan returns to Singapore after a long time on 30th Sep’16 at Suntec Hall 601-604.For more details, Sponsorships, Bulk Ticket Booking & Group Discounts contact +6590028935 or email info@otbcreationz.com
You can visit https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/sunidhi0916 to buy tickets.

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting excellence in women!

On 27th Aug, in the beautiful settings of The Pavilion , 37 Gorgeous Models walked on the ramp, with their lovely families or lovers. Runway Mom/ Runway Lovers event was a tremendous success and was an amazing event to attend. 

It’s not every day that 37 Moms get on stage, dressed to perfection, and that too with their families or lovers, as motherhood is really a busy job. Ms. Shalima Motial, the event organizer who is the Founder & CEO  of Dream Catchers, an online talent showcase company, left no stone unturned to make it a successful event. From dresses to jewelry, makeup artists to stylists, décor to music, lucky draws, and Strikey Posey Photobooth. Everything was taken care of in details, to make runway Moms and Runway Lovers feel special. Music by DJ Kushal and hosting by Emcee Himani spiced the event. Himani kept the interest of the audience and made sure they had fun.

The models looked absolutely lovely. What a beautiful moment for every participant, to be on stage, with their loved ones and that too looking their best. Such an amazing family time captured by the battery of photographers forever. It was wonderful to see supporting husbands and lovers, walking together with their lovely partners and making them feel special. Three Generations walking together on stage was an awesome treat to eyes.

Kids bonding with parents, daughters having jovial moments with smart moms. It was such an excitement all over…models getting special treatment by photographers and getting clicked in different poses throughout the event. The second round was a very special round as there were kids on stage who wanted to share their passion they dearly support for the cause- Saying no to leather and preventing Animal cruelty . There were lovely dance performances by De Dance Star and BollyOne groups.

The audience got the chance to win lucrative lucky draws sponsored by “TeamWork Productions, F & B Vouchers from Tandoor at Holiday Inn, a pair of gorgeous outfits for the Mother and Child by Glitter Glam & tickets to Sunidhi Chauhan show which is being organized by OTB Creations.  There was a party  after the ramp. Everyone enjoyed dancing together.

It was such an amazing team work by all sponsors, media partners, and other supports. Media partners- Colors TV Channel, Radio Masti 96.3Fm, Let’s Think Aloud.com gets credit for the event success. Wonderful support by all other sponsors-

• All Runway Models were wearing beautiful jewelry on the ramp sponsored by “Divya Rathi Jewelry” and “ARKO by Archana Jain
• I create Wealth Planners
• Makaan Mumbai
• Yellow Cabinet
• LoaferJama
• Amore Creations
• SoulKids Academy East Coast
• Missamore SG
• Hive by Wala Wala
• Institute for First Aid Training
• Glitter Glam
• Singapore Indian Models Agency, watch out for this all of you gorgeous Runway Models
• V John Photography
• 2 Right Feet
• Unique Masque, Lynda has been very supportive and patient with make-up needs
• Elegansy
• Strikey Posey Photobooth, special shoutout to Bhavesh
• Shutterspeed Photography
• DeDance Star, Anu Sharma you ROCK
•  BollyOne, Preeti thanks, Rock On                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Visit this link to have a feel of the whole event-        https://www.facebook.com/dreamcatchersvision/?fref=ts                                                                                                                                                                                Altogether a vibrant night with ramp walk, performances, Shows, Music & Dance. What else do you need?  Next Runway Moms/ Runway Lover event will be happening  in March 2017, do look out for the date! This event is going to be the talk of the town and will be looked for every year to return with lots of fun and laughter.Please visit https://m.facebook.com/dreamcatchersvision/  for more pics of the event and to know about other events by Dream Catchers.

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting excellence in women!

The stage is all set for the ramp!

One day to go for our beautiful ladies to walk the ramp with their lovely kids or lover in Runway Mom/ Runway Lovers event, at an alluring setting of The Pavilion @ Far East Square, 28 China Street.Time from 5-10pm on 27th Aug, Saturday.

The journey for last 2 months has been very exciting. From registration process to other pre-events like fantastic ‘The Meet and Greet’ at Moshi Moshi Bollywood . This was followed by proper introduction between Dream Catchers team, sponsors and runway participants. Fun filled Party at Hive by Wala Wala was icing on the cake. It helped in breaking the inhibitions between the participants and many friendship bonds were strengthened. And then the final rehearsals has really created a buzz-

https://www.facebook.com/letsthinkaloud/videos/1090280227724474/

Shalima Motial has done a wonderful job of providing a platform to these wonderful and multitalented ladies to celebrate their achievements in life.

Here is the introduction about talented participants in their own words-

1. Soma Roy Ghosal : I am Soma, mother of one son and working as Corporate Administrative Executive in a Wealth Management Company. I have recently won Saree Queen 2015 at Bukit Panjang CC.

2. Pratik/ Dharini: I am a doting Mom, a passionate working professional, and an occasional homemaker. My loving Husband never forgets to get time for the family amid work pressure. I am totally spellbound by his loving and caring attitude.

3. Tania: I am the mother of a 19 months old son. I have been in Singapore for almost 3 years now and I would describe myself as a strong minded modern woman with traditional values. I believe in living my life to the fullest and nothing stops me to live my dreams and passion.

4. Sonal Sharma: I have recently gone back to a full-time job at Raffles Relocation & Mobility, after a sabbatical of almost 12 years. Balancing work and everything else fills up my entire day and I am so glad I have found a purpose I had been searching for. I enjoy acting, never thought of doing it before, however after 2 successful plays I feel I really enjoy theater.

5. Preeti Kachroo: She is a visionary, a philosopher, a philanthropist, a writer, a researcher, a blogger, dance enthusiast, yoga trainer and social worker. Besides donning the many hats, she writes her mind through #preetidiaries. Preeti is a founder, Director of Dance & Events Company, named “BollyOne”.

6. Pashmin Chopra Sood: I am Pashmin Chopra Sood Living in Singapore from last seven years . I did my post graduation in MBA finance stream and had an opportunity to work with some of the major Banks in India. Now I am a stay at home mom for my 4 years old Daughter Ashlyn.

7. Rashmi Hampihallikar: I am a Licenced Instructor for “Zumba Fitness” and “Zumba for Kids” and l love what I do. Prior to being a Zumba instructor, I have done my Bachelors in Nutrition and Dietetics and then my Masters.

8. Kartiki Kulkarni: I am a happy wife and mom of a teenage son. Personally, I would describe myself as an ambitious, caring and loving, friendly and happy individual with positive attitude.On the professional front, I used to work as a teacher but quit the job to give more time to family and explore my personal interests such as dance.

9. Nidhi: From cruising the sunny skies to juggling the demands of motherhood, life has come a long way. Although my path is sometimes unclear and journey not always fun, I am glad I have great companions to cheer me on. I am a researcher at NUS and enjoy yoga during leisure.

10. Archana Amlapure: Myself, Archana , an enthusiastic, always wanting to do and try different things in life, passionate about yoga, dance and a caring person. Professionally, I worked in software industry for about 12 years and now quit the job to explore the field of yoga and to be with my two growing kids.

11. Apsara Naiding Bodo: I am Apsara and am excited…because I am a simple and happy stay at home Mom of 2.6-year-old boy, extremely busy with him….landed here in Singapore 5 years ago.

12. Binita Anup Kumar: I am Mrs. Binita Anup Kumar. I originally hail from Assam but have been living in Delhi for the last 17 years, working as a teacher there. I shifted to Singapore with my husband and family in 2014. I like singing, gardening and watching Bollywood movies.

13. Seema Seal: I am an Indian staying in this beautiful city of Singapore for the last 2 years. Currently, I am pursuing a course in Travel and Tourism from IATA.I am married for the past 26 years and my husband works for a Maritime Organisation in Singapore. I am a mother of 2 beautiful teenage girls who have become my close friends over the years.

14. Devyani Tilak: Mum, wife, daughter, sister, friend and career woman are some of the roles I play in my life. Blessed with 2 lovely daughters and an amazing husband and family, I try to make a positive impact on every role. An alumnus of the prestigious XLRI Jamshedpur, and a career woman for 20 years dance.

15. Kalpana Kundan: Working as a senior executive & also the proud mom of a teenager. I came to Singapore 6 years back before that I was in USA for 5 years !Ramp walk with my beloved Son Suryansh is a great opportunity for me.

16. Smita Roy: Starting her career with technology giant Microsoft , Smita head’s the business for a cool cloud technology company called Rhipe. She also supports Divine Script,a nonprofit organization supporting Women from the marginalized sections of the society, who are often forced into prostitution as the only option of livelihood.

17. Poonam Sharma: For the most part of her career Poonam was facing the camera. She has been one of the well know faces on satellite television, anchoring news and sports-based programs targeted at Asian audiences.Poonam currently works for global media solutions company MediaGuru’ and drives it to foray in South East Asia,

18. Mehak Ankar & Misha Mainrai : From being a Radio Jockey in India & Singapore to An Entrepreneur running an events company Out of the Box Creationz, Life had been quite a ride for Mehak. Misha changed it overnight! 18months of sleepless nights and some amazing work projects in her kitty, Mehak likes to spend some quality time with family, especially with Misha in her initial years!

19. Aditi Pathak: Rahul and I moved to Singapore from London two years back and are now completely in love with this vibrant city. Having worked for several years in social care back in London, I now look forward to exploring new avenues in my life. I rekindled my love for oil painting and am currently embarking on a western art training course with NAFA.

20. Rupali Kavitha: Kavitha is an aspiring entrepreneur, managing 3 online businesses concurrently. She is a full-time senior staff nurse in Singapore General Hospital and manages her businesses during her off days and on weekends. She is the owner of an online exclusive murukku store called ‘Munchy Murukku’ and sells Indian snacks to individuals and has been the sole distributor for many MNC companies and famous restaurants such as ‘Komalas’ in Little India.

21. Kavita Thakral and Jagdeep Thakral:
Jagdeep – Works for the IHG group of hotels – currently GM at the Holiday Inn Orchard City Centre.
Kavita – Teaching French IB / AP. Worked at OFS, Singapore ( 5 years ) and International Schools in Cambodia n Penang prior to OFS.
Both of us love life king size!! Live it up with a passion for work, golf, tennis, swimming, diving, yoga, Pilates, music and dance.

22. Shirley Sivakumar : Shirley Williams is a self-driven woman. Happily married for 15 years, she is a proud mom of 3 handsome boys. She devotes most of her time away from work to her family which is where her passion developed further. She wanted to make a difference. That is when the Institute of First Aid Training evolved.

23.Mona Bishnoi: Let’s hear the daughter talk for a change:)
Hi, this is Pranita . We are living in this wonderful country Singapore for 2 years now . I am doing my MBA here . I love animals , dancing , cooking …
Our whole family lives here too. Dad is a marine engg. Working in a shipping company here . My mom Mona Bishnoi is an entrepreneur making crafts stuff from home . I am so excited about walking the Fashion Ramp organized by Dream Catchers with my lovely Mom

24. Ruby Mathur : Ruby says….I am married and a mother of a 14 years old boy. I have always been inclined towards style and trends so after schooling from The Air ForceSchool, Delhi, I completed my Bachelors and Masters in Textiles and Clothing from Delhi University and studied Fashion at the same time.I recently moved back to Singapore and looking forward to hosting events in Singapore. Excited about walking the ramp with my son!

25. Farah: I am Farha Tehseen, proud mom of two handsome boys. I moved to Singapore 10 yrs back and got opportunities to work as AVP with international banks in Singapore for past 8 years. Now I feel proud to be successfully raising my kids and spending my time with them when they need it most.

26. Pooja Bishnoi: I am a proud mommy to my wonderful 15-month-old baby boy Neil. He is the magic in my life and fills me with joy and anticipation each day as I get back from my full-time job . He can just about walk with support so what a star to be doing a ramp show before he can even walk?
27. Shalaka: Shalaka says I’ve been a homemaker for a couple of years now, before that I’ve worked intensively on interior designing as well as pursued my passion of becoming a yoga instructor. Apart from that, I play tennis and swim for pleasure. I don’t have a background in fashion but it’s always been on my bucket list.

28. Shashi Rastogi: I am Shashi, living in Singapore for past 10years with my darling hubby Amitabh Rastogi. I am blessed with two lovely daughters.
I was lucky to have had the opportunity, during my earlier years in India, to pursue my hobby of modeling. Other than being an ardent Mother, I assist my
Hubby in his new business venture.

29. Aditi Gupta: Aditi says as is mother, so is daughter! Arianna is the one who leads the mind and heart to make our life beautiful. Whether it is winning the Mrs. Global India Expat, Singapore 2015, doing photo shoots, walking runways, being a part-time model or working full-time, she is my greatest support and gives me strength to step ahead in everything.

30. Githa and Ravichandran: Being a Swimming Coach for over 13 years, I have trained students from beginner to competitive levels. Assist people that suffer from Arthritis, Back Pain, Slip-disc, Asthmatics & etc. with Aqua Aerobics I am married to my Superhero Ravichandran with 2 wonderful boys of age 4 & 2.

31. Archana Jain: A mother of ever smiling 17-year-old girl and an undemanding 13-year-old boy, Archana Jain is the founder of Arko, producing one of a kind artisanal jewelry. Her label’s jewelry will be shown on the ramp whilst models walk with elegance and grace.

32. Monika Narayanan: She  is walking with both her girls & is Super excited to participate in the event.

33. Suman Kumari: Suman Kumari is walking the ramp with Runway Series the 2nd time. She is a motivational speaker & runs her own business despite being a busy mom of 3 wonderful daughters.

34.Priyanka Agarwal: Sheis looking fwd to walking with her Daughter Arsheeya & is excited to party after the fashion walk.

35. Rajrupa: Rajrupa  says “My attitude towards life is very positive and I’m a good learner, always improving myself both in academics and real life. My sweet little daughter is now 19 months old, we share nice and precious time and steal fun on a daily basis.”

36. Anupama Murali: Anupama is an IT process consultant, yoga and meditation trainer for kids, teens and adults she is making a difference in the lives of others as an ‘Art of Living’ coach. She is married to a banker who pretends to be in her control but who by her own admission has had a strong influence on where she is right now – a happy and successful coach, mother and wife!

 37. Shalima
Dream Catchers is an online talent showcase company that organizes events as well! From cruising several airlines as an air hostess in my 20’s to being an entrepreneur with experience of running two companies Stepping Stones(Placement Company) and Dream Catchers,I have had the opportunity to learn a lot. Have PR experience as well plus a Fashion Designing background along with a Masters degree in English Literature, feel like a Jack of a lot of trades. Happily busy with Dream Catchers now since 5 years, check us out at www.dreamcatchersvision.com. I’ve been Blessed with a good life as I am a positive, happy person who loves to learn from everyone who comes in my life!

Veenu Kalra is the Stylist for the event & 2 Right Feet is  the choreography company with choreographers named Hasika & Menka, who are training the participants to set the ramp on fire. There is a dedicated team of  Bhagyashree, Meghna, Swati & Ujala behind the event &  rocking Emcee Himani is going to add some excitement  to the  event by  hosting it.

If you want to be part of the audience of this fun-filled evening, you can buy tickets @25$  There is  a DJ dance party to Bollywood music and the photo booth with instant prints after the event. Call Shalima, 91855177 to enquire for tickets. Tickets are also available at the event.

 Womenlines wishes all the best to all participants. Keep an eye at Womenlines page next week to know detailed report about the event!

It is Indian Independence day today and I want to pay my gratitude for my beloved country!

It is such a proud feeling to be an Indian that cannot be expressed in words. I list out 6 reasons why I feel so proud to be an Indian-

1. Indian upbringing has helped me to lead a balanced life in a foreign country as I am very well aware how to set my priorities. Amidst the mad rat race in the foreign country, setting these priorities has helped me to focus on family and career both with a balance.

2. Indian culture has taught me to celebrate festivals and various other days of the year with full zest and life which has really made life colorful and full of memorable moments. I feel blessed to pass the culture to my kids, who love to celebrate all occasions with fun.

3. As an Indian, I have been taught to give importance to relationships and celebrate special bonds with pleasure and love. Such special bonds really become pillars of life when we require help in needy times and also in celebration time. Our family comes first to us and thus we plan other things around them.

4. Indian history is full of stories about great kings and leaders who have given their lives for sake of our country.Knowledge about such glorious past really helps the youth of today to imbibe values followed by them. Life history of such great personalities has really taught me to adopt their willpower and determination to reach my goals.

5. India is a large country with so many states, consists of people following different religions and culture. I have always been taught about how to respect other race or religion and live together giving equally to respect to each other value in society!

6. Indian upbringing has helped me to nurture my mind with spirituality.The interest to imbibe spiritual values and follow the path of honesty has really helped me to keep my pace in life balanced and in touch with real person inside me.

May God bless India with the abundance of success, peace, and prosperity. Happy Independence day!

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting excellence in women!

Singapore 51st National Day celebration was impressive, creative, and incredible!

Watching Singapore national day celebration on television has always been a pleasure, which leaves a strong message in your mind. This year theme, “Building our Singapore of Tomorrow”, was a  wonderful theme as it conveys a strong message for our present generation to dream for a bright future. There is a call for action for all people residing in Singapore to build their future collectively. Venue New Stadium was looking so beautiful with all decoration.There was a  beautiful display of  Indoor Fireworks and 3D Projection Displays too. Unmanned Technologies such as Drones and Dynamic Aerial Performances reflected the strength of Singapore’s capability in the field of latest technology.

I am still mesmerized watching such a creative and beautiful celebration done with such vigor by all participants with true Singapore spirit. Singapore has set an example of a hard-working nation which gives the amazing opportunity to its residents to build up their bright future. My all prayers to God to maintain the racial harmony of the country as it has been maintained till now!

Happy Birthday, Singapore!

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting excellence in women!

Women Lines is proud to share about an upcoming fun filled event ‘Runway Mom/Runway Lovers’, on 27th Aug at The Pavilion, Singapore. This event is being organised by Dream Catchers , a Singapore based talent showcase platform which gives people opportunity to get closer to their dreams.

As a woman you have always loved watching models getting groomed, walking on the ramp and being at the centre of stage. Dream Catchers is giving you a golden chance where you can create beautiful memories for yourself and your family. It can be a fantastic opportunity for you to give your family that special moment on stage where you all are at your best…and you get a click for ever. Walk the ramp with your precious one, it’s for moms with their loved ones, be it kids, spouse, family or alone.

March 6th 2016, Runway Mom was an astounding event, with Moms walking down the ramp with their kids from the ages of 16 months to 21 years old. Adorned in smiles to kill and wonderful clothes, creating golden memories to live off of for years to come! The event was a huge success with a turn up of 52 participants parading down the ramp and 300 people witnessing the fun. All in all, it was an experience that outputted such love and serenity .

Visit this link to know about the  previous Runway Mom event , which was organised on 6th March’2016

https://www.facebook.com/shalima.motial/videos/10153990925881753/

This time around, Dream Catchers has shaken things up and is proud to present Runway Lovers AND Runway Mom. An event in which Mothers will walk alongside their loved ones while couples will rock it up on the ramp too. It will be a lovely evening with the participants modelling from 5:00 – 6:30 pm at The Pavilion-which is an awesome venue. The audience and participants get to party till 10:00 pm. Stalls selling refreshing drinks, scrumptious food and obviously the latest songs being blasted through the speakers to complete the euphoria!

Make friends, enjoy the journey in non-competitive environment……….join Runway Lovers and Runway Mom event. Grab this opportunity provided by Dream Catchers, which is run by fun filled and fantastic organizer Ms Shalima Motial. Call or message Shalima- 91855177 to register.

https://www.facebook.com/dreamcatchersvision/

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting excellence in women!

In today’s world when people are getting absorbed in achieving materialistic success,  people like Ratna Joshi can be a real asset to society. She belongs to that group of people who get sheer joy in reaching out to needy people to help them.  Ratna Joshi runs an NGO BMI trust in Pune, India. It aims to find solutions to the issues affecting the urban and rural poor, with a special focus on children and education. It is pleasure for Women Lines to share her journey in her own words-

1. Please share with our readers’ little bit about yourself?

I, Ratna Joshi reside at Pune city in India. A Strong desire to give back to society eventually took shape in 2006 as BMI Trust. Our NGO started with adopting the village named Vikram for education in 2006 itself. With years and dedication of volunteers, staff, and supporters the number has grown to 38 villages.

We started solely with the purpose of education and its requirement but then we realized that other fields needed attention as well. We started concentrating on health aspects where we started conducting free dental check-ups, cataract operations, blood donation camps, distribution of vitamins to younger children. We also took up some environmental projects to create awareness among the villages.

We are extremely fortunate to have a considerate, enthusiastic and aware team of young volunteers.

2. So when did you venture into this venture and what inspired or motivated you to take a plunge into this venture?

I took the plunge in the year 2006. I believed that apart from the upbringing that I have got and the values instilled in me by my parents, my family and society played a major role in shaping me, making me aware of many things which otherwise do not register to me. A lot of my life’s experiences have culminated from society and have taught me a lot. So it was the time that I give back in whatever ways I could. It was a very strong desire that motivated me to take the plunge.

 3. Can you share with us some of the challenges you faced during your initial days?

I plunged into this venture with a completely different mindset. I had visited a few schools in and around Pune and realized that there was a massive communication gap between the teachers and students due to which the children were not able to make progress. We started helping out with our dedicated volunteers to teach the children over weekends. I slowly started noticing other problems that needed attention. Problems like cataracts, dental problems, domestic violence problems, unhygienic living, tobacco chewing problems, girl child problems, education and much more. We started with programs like Swapnapurti, Doordrishti, Swapnashrishti, free medical aid and Heath and hygiene to focus on these problems.

4. So how do you balance your personal and professional life?

When my children had gone abroad for their higher education I had a lot of time to ponder over how I am going to accomplish my dream of giving back to society.

5. What would you suggest to other aspiring women who want to venture out on their own?

Breathe your dreams, never let the flame of your dreams fade. Make it a mission that you have to accomplish. Gather all your inner strength to make it possible and come in LIVE.

6. Is there any person who has mentored/supported/inspired you?

Mother Teresa

“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples”. I strongly believe somewhere this quote has become my lifeline.

7. What do you have in the pipeline for your venture’s  future development?

In 2016 and  2017 we are planning to open up a Mahila Prashikshan Kendra ( women training Centre) for the rural, downtrodden and less fortunate women. This will definitely equip them financially and give them a sense of power and confidence to be more open in society.

Women Lines wishes best of luck to Ratna for success in her future efforts to reach out to more needy people to help them.

I would like to request my blog readers to visit BMI website http://www.bmitrust.org to know more about the NGO. You can make a contribution to BMI efforts by donating on the website directly.

Facebook page: BMI Trust India.

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting Excellence in Women!

As a parent, we want to fill our kid’s life with happiness and success!

We want them to be equipped with all skill sets required to survive successfully in present times. Positive Communication skills are the golden skills in today’s times. In every sphere of life, a parameter of our success very much depends upon on how are our communication skills.

In daily life, communication is taken as a normal activity which is not given much mindfulness. But if we go through our whole day activities then we will find yourself indulged in some of the other types of communication. Either we are talking one to one or interacting on phone, even might be communicating through emails too. We also realize those things in life, which we missed because of lack of proper communication.

We can lovingly guide our children towards happiness and true success in all aspects of life by equipping them with the power of communication. When they grow up they have to deal with their family, employers, friends, relatives, neighbors, in fact with pets too:)). While communicating they have to learn how to manage tone, what type of words to use, with whom to have the heart to heart communication, when to have limited communication.

How communication skills can help-

1. Great communication skills can help kids to share their thoughts with their parents easily. At times kids are not feeling good, demotivated and get lost. Above all, if they are not able to share their real feelings with anybody and keep piling their thoughts within themselves, it can lead to stress. On the other side, good communication skills can help kids to just let the burden of thoughts go away by sharing in and out with their parents. This way they can get correct guidance
2. In schools, it is very important to have great communication skills with friends and teachers. Right knowledge can only be gained when proper interaction happens with the teacher in the class. With right communication skills kids can ask right questions and can clarify their doubts. This way they can have a good hold on their subjects.
3. Kids will be growing up with time to join the workforce. Then they will be requiring the power of oral and written communications skills both. If they are equipped with these skills from the beginning they can excel in their field without any doubt.
4. Kids are part of the family, therefore, they should be mindful about their communication with every member of the family. Such skills can help in building up a strong bond between him and all members of the family.
5. Positive communication with oneself is the most important communication skill which any parent can teach his kid. It can do wonders by creating a strong self-esteem thus leading to a confident and determined personality of a child.

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting Excellence in Women!

Zulaikha, known for her famous beauty parlor Zulu Style in Singapore is quite popular for giving unique hairstyles, grooming and makeup services to her clients. Zulu is amazingly hard-working, creative, talented, and passionate about her work. Her 9 years journey which started from providing home beauty services to her clients to settling up her own outlet in Singapore, proves the fact that if you love what you do then there is no limit for your achievements. Her business acumen, beauty skills have given her an individual identity and she stands out in the crowd.What I love is her confidence and love for her work.Women lines is proud to share her journey in her own words-

1.Please share with our readers a little bit about yourself?

Hi everybody! Thanks for giving me the opportunity to share about myself.Well, I’m Zulaikha, founder of Zulu Style Pte Ltd. People love to call me Zulu. I am born and brought up in  Karachi, Pakistan. I have a degree in Bachelor of Arts as I was always interested in this field. I got married in Singapore in 2007 and since then I’m here.I have 2 kids and I am living in west part of Singapore. I am running my own Hair, Beauty and Bridal business in Little India.

2. So when did you venture into this venture and what inspired or motivated you to take a plunge into this venture?

Actually, since the age of 10, I was very curious and excited about making people look beautiful around me. Slowly this interest became my passion and I planned my profession around it. I’ve done many certification and diploma courses to satisfy my inner passion. In 2005, I came to Singapore for completion of my Hair diploma from Pivot Point Singapore. After that, I settled in Singapore in 2007. When I started looking around I found that there were many ladies who wanted to look beautiful but they were not getting all services under one roof. There were different services provided by different salons.I started giving them home services at economical costs and God has blessed me with such lovely clients who really appreciated my work and encouraged me with loads of love and praises.When demand started to overflow I planned to have a salon in the central part of Singapore where I can deliver my skills to as many as I can.Then slowly small place changed to bigger then bigger and sometime back there were 3 branches of Zulu Style in Singapore.

3. Can you share with us some of the challenges you faced during your initial days?

Yes good question, when I started my salon in the market, Little India was surrounded by many local based Indian salons operating for last 20 years plus..I liked it and accepted the challenge to be there being one of them offering unique services with customer satisfaction.The other thing bothered me was about staff management and hiring good hands.Due to that, I had to close 2 branches of  Zulu Style and now we have only one branch at race course road.

4. So how do you balance your personal and professional life ?

This is very women oriented business and they understand very well. In Singapore many women are having work life balance issues, but due to appointments arrangements I am able to  manage it well.

5.What would you suggest to other aspiring women who want to venture out on their own ?

At first, I tried to search out a job for myself as it sounded easy initially.  But I must say if you have talent and passion to do it in  your own way , God is always there to guide you.You get inner strength to face all hurdles and challenges if your faith is strong. I have learnt many lessons throughout my entrepreneurial journey which has made me stronger as a person.

6.Is there any person who has mentored/supported/inspired you?

The credit goes to my elder daughter Fareha. I was always concerned that how I’ll start working if I had a cranky  child with me? But due to her calm  and lovely nature everybody loves to take her and she is well adjusted at home.This peace of mind helped me in focussing on my profession. I must say I was very angry with those beauticians who used to mess with client’s hair and always blamed their hair type to be the reason by saying”oh your hair like that”.They never cared for client’s satisfaction. For me my client’s satisfaction is most important.Thats how I chose my salon name ZulYouStyle” I’m nothing without “YOU” and without “YOUR” satisfaction.

7.What do you have in the pipeline for your venture’s  future development?

Well what I felt in the market while serving my clients, many women have bad hair texture and everybody is in rush. They are badly in need of good services which is economical yet long lasting. I wanna do something more to haircare and styling side that can make everyone at ease. Currently we have started offering those services at promotional price so that every one can take it without thinking much.Only Good Hair can show Good  Hairstyle.

Womenlines wishes all the best to Zulu for her future initiatives. Do visit Zulu Style  FB page to know more about her-

http://www.fb.com/zulustyles

Charu Mehrotra

Promoting Excellence in Women!