My personal journey of resilience...

In the spirit of womanhood and the delicate balance of being a mother while pursuing a career, I want to share a personal story this International Women’s Day—one of change, uncertainty, and growth. As I reflect on my journey, I see not just the struggles, but the incredible resilience that women bring to every new chapter of life.

I remember the butterflies in my stomach when my husband told me that he had received an offer letter for a new job in the UK! My first thought was about the enormity of the change—not just as regards moving countries, but also having to adapt to a different culture. The idea of leaving behind our home, friends, family, and a stable job was daunting. Any transition can be unsettling, and making such a big move at the age of 36 certainly came with its challenges.

Leamington Spa welcomed us, but I deeply missed the sense of community I had back in India. The lively conversations with neighbours, the cultural festivals (dance is a significant part of my identity), the bustling street food stalls that had been a big part of my daily life. The adjustment also extended to managing a home differently – back in India, we were used to having support at home, which made daily tasks more efficient. Here we had to adapt to a new way of balancing responsibilities. While it took some getting used to, I gradually found a rhythm that worked for us, appreciating the independence and structure that it brought.

Settling in took its own time. In India, it was common for someone to ring the doorbell every few hours, but here, my days initially felt quiet and isolating. Until I got my driver’s license, I relied on my husband for transportation, and even arranging playdates for my daughters required planning, unlike the spontaneous gatherings we were used to. The winter months, in particular, felt long and gloomy.

One of the hardest things was watching my daughter navigate school life. She struggled to find her place, and there were moments when she felt different - sometimes on account of her skin colour, and other times because of the food she took in for lunch, that felt unfamiliar to her peers. She started asking me not to pack Indian food so she could blend in. It was a difficult conversation, but as a mother I reassured her that learning to embrace both cultures would prove to be one of her greatest strengths. We found a balance, incorporating a mix of Indian and Western meals, and I encouraged her to take pride in sharing her heritage while also enjoying new experiences.

Despite savouring our family time together and having extended family in London and Sheffield - whom we saw only once or twice a year - the loneliness lingered. When Covid hit six months after our move, it made things even harder. I thrive on social connections, and being in a new place without a close circle of friends was difficult. Fortunately, over the course of a few months, I met a wonderful friend in our apartment complex who invited me to a cultural festival at the Hindu Temple in Leamington Spa, and slowly but surely, I began to create a reliable network. Today, I am proud to have cultivated a wonderful group of friends with whom I share laughs and dances with. They have become our chosen family in Leamington Spa.

Over time, I have also begun to appreciate the new routines we have built. While managing everything at home was an adjustment, I found that planning ahead made a big difference. There were moments when I missed the convenience of extra hands, but I also valued the independence it gave me. The girls’ early bedtime meant I had peaceful evenings to unwind with a book or a Netflix series - something I hadn’t always had the time for before.

Then came the challenge of re-entering the workforce. I went through multiple interviews with reputable organisations, but I struggled to make it past the final rounds because of gaps in my experience - things that weren’t part of my previous role in India. It was disheartening, but I persevered. After dedicating a few years to motherhood, I eventually found the perfect job with The Activation Project, and it felt like everything had come a full circle.

Looking back, this journey has been one of growth, tenacity, and self-discovery. Moving countries is never easy, but with time, patience, and an open heart, I have found my place here. 

I am a warm, friendly woman who isn’t afraid to face challenges. I continue to learn and evolve every day.

Women are capable of adapting, growing, and shaping their own journeys -whether for themselves, their families, or their communities. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I am reminded of the strength, perseverance, and courage of women everywhere who navigate change, break barriers, and carve their own paths. Here’s to lifting each other up and embracing the endless possibilities ahead!