Tell me about yourself, and what you do:I am a creative director, writer & content strategist for brands, startups, and agencies. I work on coming up with creative ideas that translate into social media campaigns, content, TV ads, YouTube videos, subway ads - you name it. I also work with writers to help develop and mentor their skill set. I am also a published author and hope to do more creative and editorial writing in my career.
Why did you choose to work in this field?:I chose to work in this field because it brings together many things I am interested in: creativity, culture, making an impact, and it attracts a lot of people like me, who don't fit into a box professionally.
Was there a particular incident that ended up confirming your choice in career?:I always wanted to write. Copywriting gave me the opportunity to write and also be part of some of the biggest brands and businesses in the world today. On a practical level, I think it is a good way to combine what I'm passionate about and make a decent living, but it's also an exciting and diverse career.
How do you think that this career has affected your connection to the idea of being “Asian”, and what does that mean to you?:I think in advertising and media in general, there is a need for diversity, particularly at the highest levels of companies. I believe as a creative person I bring all of my experiences to making something, and it inspires what I am interested in talking about in my work. But I don't think about being "Asian" per se. I think about being me, and try to tell stories from that perspective. I think that is a more interesting and nuanced way to bring diversity into the conversation - just by being and doing it, not talking about it.
Who is someone who has inspired you through your journey?:My sister, Nandini and my parents, Lakshmi and Gopal. I've also been lucky to work with top tier creatives at different companies.
What is some advice you can offer to young girls who are hoping to be where you are right now?:Stay open to changing directions if you have to. Follow your authentic desires to do something meaningful to you. Don't chase trends because they pass. Figure out what you're good at by trying lots of different things. Work hard and pay attention to what makes you feel great, and what doesn't - and adjust accordingly. If you have one thing you're passionate about, give it all you've got and don't look back. (That is not my path, but I am envious of people who have one single thing they love and they are good at!)
