Sonal is Indian-born but grew up in Canada, and studied and worked in London.
She is a London School of Economics (LSE) graduate and worked as a management consultant at Deloitte, London. She is now focused on improving wellness in organizations and transforming lives. She is also a mentor building confidence and goal-setting skills through motivational speaking and her blog.
Recently, Sonal won the title of Ms. Asia Universe and Ms.Universe-Beautiful.
Sonal is the recipient of the REX karmaveer chakra global fellowship award (awarded previously to honourable president Dr. APJ Abdul kalam) for her interventions on domestic violence in the community and workshops she runs for bright young women from low-income families with Delhi-based NGO Udayan Care.
Sonal is fluent in French and has lived and worked in several countries. She published an article with the director of the UNDP in Brazil, worked with the ministry of health in London UK and lived in rural Gujarat improving women’s access to healthcare with the Aga Khan Foundation.
She now lives in Delhi because of her love for India and strong belief that is her duty to make a valuable change in her birth country.
Tell us about yourself, your background and what you do currently
I love challenges and pushing boundaries. I believe we are continually evolving are there are many facets to each individual so why restrict yourself to one or two roles? I have several avatars. I’m a Geek, Fitness Freak, Beauty Queen, Model and former Management Consultant (Deloitte, London). I’m a London School of Economics (LSE) graduate. Currently I’m a Director at SQUATS: India’s first curated marketplace for fitness and health. One of my favourite roles is that of an “inspirator.” I love inspiring people to be confident and pursue their goals. I do this through motivational speaking and my personal blog.
Tell us about any current projects or initiatives you wish to promote
As the Director of SQUATS’ Wellness Initiative (WiN), my mission is to create Holistic Health environments in organizations characterized by high-stress, demanding hours and poor eating habits. I accept the challenge to transform India’s corporate culture – one organization at a time! I believe we can WiN together.
What has been your biggest challenge in achieving your success?
A lot of people were sceptical about me moving to India after living abroad my whole life (Canada and London) and I was faced with a lot of negativity. I always told myself that any change requires an adjustment and the right mind-set. Any obstacle is only as big as you perceive it.
What has been your greatest achievement personally?
When I had the opportunity to do field work in rural Gujarat with community health promoters with the Aga Khan Foundation. These women epitomized strength, service and compassion. It was during my time with them that I gained clarity about how I was committed to making a change.
If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing?
I would definitely be a dancer; I simply love to dance!
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My husband. There is this preconceived notion that once a woman gets married, she is the one who has to do all the adjusting and may need to put her personal and professional ambitions on hold. He completely busted this myth! He motivated me to pursue my dreams and has supported and loved me every step of the way.
What does the future hold for you?
I look forward to transforming more lives and continue making an impact
Never let anyone limit you. Only you can determine what you can and cannot achieve. And you can achieve anything!
