Let’s DIve In
Rishantha Naidu, a dedicated professional and vibrant advocate for women's empowerment, steps into the limelight of the Mrs. South Africa 2024 competition. Driven by a passion for fashion, modelling, and a heartening endorsement from her family, Rishantha's participation is a testament to her belief in the transformative power of embracing new challenges. This interview explores her inspirations, the impact of the competition on her life, and the values she stands by.
Some Insight
Rishantha's professional background in a leading African bank underscores her commitment to maintaining a distinct separation between her career and her pageant involvement. Her journey in the Mrs. SA competition is marked by a deep-seated passion for self-improvement, community service, and advocacy for education and independence for women.
The Interview
What inspired you to participate in the Mrs. SA competition?
“My love for fashion and modelling as well as a personal request from my mother to enter supported by my husband”
How has your journey in the competition impacted your personal and professional life?
“I work for a leading Bank in Africa so my journey has to be kept completely separate from my professional life as I am bound by strict policies and processes. My personal life on the other hand has changed drastically, I now make time for myself in order to attend events, create content, interact on social media and adapt to being a public figure.”
What challenges have you faced during the competition, and how did you overcome them?
“My biggest challenge was time management. It is extremely challenging juggling being a mother, working full-time, studying part-time and making time for the competition requirements”
Can you share your daily wellness routine?
“I do not have a routine unfortunately, everyday is so different for me. What I can say is that I don’t need to exercise because I am always on the go!”
How do you balance your mental and physical health, especially in preparation for a competition?
“I am a spiritual person, I pray and meditate as and when I have time. Physically, I am always active since I have a busy schedule and little children to keep up with.”
What's your philosophy on nutrition and fitness, and how has it evolved over the years?
“I think that fitness and nutrition has become a way of life for many people and it’s admirable that people invest and really take care of these aspects. I do think that it is important as people want to live long healthy lives.”
What are your go-to beauty and skincare routines?
“I have to have a spa day at least twice a month. A relaxing massage with essential oils carries me. It also counts as a date because I make sure to book the couple’s package. Other than this I am super low maintenance and have not adopted any beauty or skincare routines, for now I am basking in my good genes from my Mom.”
How do you define beauty, and how does it reflect in your lifestyle?
“For me, beauty is the way in which you treat people. I want to be known for having a beautiful heart rather than having a beautiful outward appearance. I always endeavour to display kindness in my everyday life and treat people with utmost care and consideration.”
What beauty trends are you currently loving, and which ones would you like to see make a comeback?
“I love the winged eyeliner, it suits anyone and everyone. I would love to see the reintroduction of natural lashes.”
How would you describe your personal style, and how has it evolved over time?
“I love dresses and heels. I am a girly girl and have not evolved and don’t think I ever will.”
Can you share a memorable fashion moment from your participation in Mrs. SA?
“The photoshoot the day after we got selected as semi-finalist was memorable in a sense that I enjoyed seeing everyone dressed up in their best boss looks. We have an amazingly diverse class this year and everyone brings so much variety to the class.”
What fashion advice would you give to someone looking to find their own style?
“Do what works for you. Do not get carried away by societal pressures or over exaggerated pictures or content. Be comfortable with yourself enough to find what works for you.”
As a role model, what message do you want to convey to women and young girls?
“You are beautiful and you are amazing the way you are. Your circumstances do not define your stance, shape your own destiny and live a life that you will be proud of. Shift your internal narratives to become your reality!”
How do you use your platform to advocate for causes you're passionate about?
“I lead by example. I advocate for education and independence which ideally leads to woman empowerment. I keep learning and I am currently pursuing a BCOM in Industrial and Organisational Psychology and encourage women to educate themselves and become financially independent.”
Can you share an instance where you felt you made a significant impact through your advocacy work?
“The feedback I get from a recipient of a coaching session whereby they have managed to secure employment and provide for themselves and their families.”
What are your goals and aspirations beyond the Mrs. SA competition?
“I want to keep empowering young girls and women by displaying my journey and my life story. I want to become a psychometrist and have my own practice and use my practice to incubate future empowered women.”
How do you plan to continue making a difference in your community or field of work?
“My charitable deeds before, during and beyond Mrs SA will continue. I will keep being of service to my community with the means I have available and keep growing steadfastly.”
Is there a project or initiative you're currently working on that you'd like to share more about?
“My sponsor is the owner of The Gold Bar. I am actively involved in their initiative which is the school drive. When a customer sells their unwanted jewellery, The Gold Bar will pay an extra 10% towards their child’s school fees. This 10% will be paid directly to the school account.”
What's a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
“I like fast cars and enjoy racing.”
If you could have dinner with any three people (dead or alive), who would they be and why?
“My maternal grandmother. She was an incredible woman who always encouraged me to do my best and assisted me wherever she could.”
“Priyanka Chopra. I am always inspired by her boldness and confidence. She is unapologetic and never shies away from criticism. Her energy is simply the best.”
“Khanyisa Bunu. One of my favourite comedians. The dinner will be filled with laughter and good food- 2 of my best combinations.”
Can you tell us about the inception of your business/entrepreneurial journey? What inspired you to start?
“I managed my own Human Resources and Payroll consultancy before I went back to full time employment. I wanted to provide tailored solutions to companies that met their personal requirements rather than them being forced into rigid agreements. I would like to reestablish it in the near future.”
What unique challenges have you faced as a woman in business, and how have you overcome them?
“My business had just started and then the Covid 19 pandemic came about. I had to then shut down due to the impact on my clients. This challenge was indeed very unique and unlikely to be faced again.”
As a leader, how do you foster a positive and productive work environment for your team?
“As a Human Resources professional I ensure that the culture is conducive to learning and growing. Wellness is a huge focus as a healthy workforce is a productive workforce and our teams wellbeing is important.”
What does empowerment mean to you, and how do you empower others through your work or business?
“Empowerment means equipping others with the skills, tools and knowledge to succeed. I offer my personal time and expertise to uplift others. I share personal learnings and give sound advice in order for others to avoid challenges that I faced and overcome the challenges if they may face it at some point.”
How have your experiences in the Mrs. SA competition influenced your approach to leadership and business?
“It has made me look at life itself through different lenses. It has also opened my eyes to many different ways of work and opportunities that I am yet to tap into. I am bursting with passion and possibilities.”
Wrapping Up
As Rishantha Naidu continues her journey in the Mrs. SA competition, her focus remains steadfast on empowering young women and girls, sharing her story to inspire others. With aspirations to become a psychometrist and establish her own practice, Rishantha is dedicated to using her experiences and insights to foster a community of empowered and independent women. Her journey is a vibrant illustration of how personal ambition and a commitment to service can intertwine to create a profound impact on both individual lives and the broader community.
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With Love and Empowerment,
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