Home SA Rocket science and runways: Sakshi on challenging stereotypes

Rocket science and runways: Sakshi on challenging stereotypes

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At the confluence of science and artistry, of aerospace engineering and beauty pageantry, stands 23-year-old Sakshi—a multi-talented dynamo defying conventional boundaries. Her recent accolade as the runner-up of Miss Femina Beauty AU 2023 is just another feather in her already well-adorned cap.

“My philosophy revolves around kindness, gratitude, and open-mindedness, and these values paint the canvas of my daily life,” Sakshi explains. “Kindness is the melody in my interactions, harmonising empathy, respect, and compassion with each note. I make it my mission to be a source of warmth and support for those who need it most.”

Sakshi starts her day immersed in what she calls a “symphony of gratitude.” “Every morning, I take a moment to reflect on the many blessings that grace my life. Gratitude isn’t just about what I receive; it’s about what I give back. I shower others with words and deeds of thanks, acknowledging their contributions,” she adds.

In our conversation, Sakshi delved into her commitment to social impact. “One notable endeavour in the pipeline is the launch of confidence and motivation workshops in Adelaide. These are meticulously crafted to instill self-belief and resilience,” she shares. She’s also blending her culinary passion into her vision for empowerment through the establishment of a charming café restaurant, which promises a unique gastronomic experience and cooking classes.

Sakshi’s social contributions extend to her involvement with Variety SA. “I orchestrate diverse events aimed at fundraising for underprivileged children. The earnings from my tutoring sessions are dedicated to this cause, championing a brighter future for children facing adversity,” she elaborates.

However, the bedrock of Sakshi’s multifaceted achievements is her family. Born into a loving Hindu family in Punjab, India, Sakshi credits her parents and brother as the pillars that have held her dreams aloft. Her father, Surinder Kumar Garg, initially envisioned a future for her in the Air Force, igniting her aspirations at a tender age. Her mother, Diksha, and her brother, Kartik, have been unstinting in their support and belief in her capabilities. “My family have always fought for my rights and believed in my dreams,” she shares emotionally. “During a challenging period when my father’s health was in jeopardy, it was their unwavering support that helped me navigate through it. Their steadfast encouragement has been my greatest strength. Today, even as I pursue ambitious goals, it’s the enduring faith and values instilled by my family that remain my guiding force.”

When it comes to the future, she is equally ambitious. “Looking ahead, my aspirations are fueled by a profound passion for aerospace engineering and the relentless pursuit of empowerment. I aim to obtain my Pilot’s license and further my aerospace expertise by pursuing a master’s degree,” Sakshi discloses.

Beyond academia and her professional journey, she aims to continue leveraging pageant platforms for advocacy. “These competitions serve as platforms for me to challenge stereotypes and advocate for gender equality. I firmly believe that women are capable of achieving greatness in any field,” she states emphatically.

For those looking to emulate her success, Sakshi offers a heartfelt message. “To all the remarkable young women out there, don’t let anyone define your potential based on gender or stereotypes. Be fearless, be bold, and be unapologetically yourself,” she urges.

She also emphasizes the virtues that have guided her journey: “Keep the flame of kindness, gratitude, and open-mindedness burning bright. Elevate yourself to a level where your name becomes synonymous with achievement and resilience.”

“In essence, my future is defined by a relentless pursuit of dreams, a commitment to empowerment, and the unwavering belief that women can achieve anything they set their minds to,” Sakshi concludes, exuding the same spirit of indomitable resolve and boundless optimism that has marked her remarkable trajectory so far.

It’s not every day that we encounter individuals like Sakshi who harmoniously blend technical prowess with social commitment and aesthetic grace. Her story serves as a compelling testament to the multifaceted brilliance that women can embody, encouraging us all to challenge societal norms and redefine the boundaries of what is possible.


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