What Does Being South Asian Mean to You?
It makes me proud to be part of a cultural movement — pushing past "traditional" professional paths. Growing up in a South Asian household for many means choosing from a handful of predefined career paths, be it medicine, engineering, business, or finance. I was one of the few (at least in my circle) who was encouraged to chase my creative dreams. The only caveat my parents ever had was, be willing to put in the work, stay focussed, and tune out any noise.
What Does It Mean to Have Style Right Now?
In quarantine, style has scaled back to what's most [important]: comfort and functionality. It's forced us all to think about fashion in a different way. For example, I may be working from home in sweats and a tee, but I'll maybe subconsciously wear jewellery, a blazer, or something that makes me feel more ready to tackle the work day and ultimately more inspired.
The Best Piece of Career Advice You've Gotten?
My mom, who's always been my biggest professional icon, has always said, "Work as hard as you can while also enjoying the journey. Never lose site of happiness along the way." She still says this to me when I'm stressed or unsure about my next steps. Sometimes, it's not what I want to hear in the moment, but it centres me.
Something You Wish You Knew Before Starting Your Business?
I wish I understood that starting a business will change your life completely. My day-to-day now is worlds apart from pre-Naveda. There are a number of sacrifices one makes in those early days (and now) — like sleep and missing social events — and you have to be comfortable with that. Like others in my shoes, you find a way to work through it.
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