Today we’d like to introduce you to Manasa Desai.
Hi Manasa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
“I am not only a fashion model but also a Content Creator and Style Editor. Beyond that, I am an Engineer who has excelled in the field of Information Technology for the past 18 years. Alongside these professional roles, I proudly embrace the role of a mother to two wonderful girls.
Throughout my career, I’ve been immersed in the world of technology and engineering, yet my heart always gravitated towards fashion and travel. Unfortunately, my busy schedule often prevented me from fully exploring these passions.
Yet, a moment of profound transformation unfolded with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Amidst those testing moments, I came to a realization about the value of dedicating meaningful moments to both family and self. It became clear that an inner transformation was in order – a transformation that required me to reevaluate my lifestyle choices. This introspection was driven by the desire to align the reflection in the mirror with the vision of myself that I held within.
I embarked on a journey of self-improvement, expecting little to no change at all when I started. After 6 Intense months of sweat, the perseverance and the sacrifices invested in this endeavor all played a role in the remarkable outcome – shedding a remarkable 35 pounds.
This wasn’t just about losing weight; it was a journey that mirrored the essence of hard work and dedication. It showed me that the image that gazes back at us from the mirror isn’t just a reflection of our physical appearance but a testament to the profound changes we are capable of when we channel our efforts in the right direction. In those moments of challenge, I discovered the power of self-care, the strength of commitment, and the sweet taste of success. Amidst the turbulence, an incredible opportunity emerged – an opportunity that would set the course for my journey. I was chosen to represent a prestigious designer house based in Michigan at the Indian Fashion Week.
Stepping onto that stage marked a turning point in my life. The energy, the excitement, and the enchantment of the fashion world captured my heart. From the meticulous efforts behind the scenes to the breathtaking results on the runway, I was captivated by it all. It was in that very moment that I realized the allure of the fashion industry was something I wanted to explore further.
Driven by passion and determination, I made the decision to delve into modeling, initially as a fulfilling hobby. Little did I know that this choice would open doors I had never even dreamed of. It wasn’t long before I found myself striding down the runway of New York Fashion Week. The path I had embarked upon was one of unexpected opportunities and newfound horizons.
Since that exhilarating moment, opportunities have continued to flow my way. Each experience, each catwalk, and every photoshoot has added a new layer to my journey. It’s a reminder that even amidst challenges and uncertainties, there lies a world of potential waiting to be discovered. My transformation, catalyzed by a global crisis, has unfolded into a tapestry of achievements and aspirations that I never could have anticipated.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Balancing a demanding career, family responsibilities, and a newfound passion for fashion and modeling was a constant struggle. Finding the right balance between these aspects required careful planning and sacrifices. There were moments when self-doubt crept in, questioning whether I could truly succeed in a completely new field. Overcoming these doubts required cultivating self-confidence and maintaining a strong belief in my capabilities. Shedding 35 pounds demanded significant physical effort and commitment. Staying motivated throughout the grueling workouts and maintaining a healthy diet was challenging, as was maintaining a positive mindset during moments of exhaustion.
As I delved into modeling and fashion, I encountered rejection and criticism. Not every opportunity was handed to me, and not every response was positive. Learning to handle rejection gracefully and using criticism as a tool for growth was crucial. Last but not the least, the most important of all is time. Building a presence in the fashion and modeling world requires consistent effort. Finding the time to create content, attend events, and network while still fulfilling my other roles was a continuous challenge. I’m grateful for my family, who stood by me in those testing times. My husband and daughters are my biggest and loudest cheerleaders. They have been my pillar and strength in my most vulnerable moments.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Diving into my professional journey, I find my expertise bridging two diverse realms. With a background in Chemical Engineering, I have evolved into a Product Manager at a prominent IT firm. My trajectory is a fusion of analytical skills and innovative thinking, an intersection where technical understanding meets strategic vision. What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly translate intricate technical concepts into tangible product strategies.
I am known for being a problem solver and a dynamic thinker. My journey from the world of chemical reactions to the realm of digital products exemplifies my adaptability and capacity for growth. As a Product Manager, I navigate complex challenges, embracing them as opportunities for innovation. It’s the fusion of these skills that enables me to sculpt technology into solutions that make a tangible impact.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I believe that universe is full of possibilities and Simultaneously, I am an advocate of the notion that being in the right place at the right time can be a pivotal factor in shaping our journeys. Whether one chooses to attribute it to luck or view it as the gateway to seizing opportunities, the interplay of coincidence and timing holds undeniable significance in our lives. There have been instances where the universe has bestowed its blessings, opening unexpected doors and providing opportunities that I hadn’t actively pursued. For instance, the moment I was invited to represent a prestigious designer house at the Indian Fashion Week can be attributed to a stroke of good luck. It was an unexpected opportunity that aligned perfectly with my passion for fashion, launching me onto a trajectory I hadn’t foreseen.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechicfulthinker/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ManasaDesai
Image Credits
Aaira’s Photography
