How I Got Here
If I had to sum up my journey so far, it would be this: “Do it for the plot.” I’ve learned to say yes to experiences, big and small, because memories last far longer than moments. Looking back, I see a story pieced together by curiosity, a little courage, and a desire to make life interesting. This path—winding and unpredictable—has brought me to where I am today.
It all started when I was 12 and had the wild idea of building my own website. I didn’t have a plan; I just thought it would be cool to have a site with free nature wallpapers (yes, just nature wallpapers). I used Wix, went with stock photos, and imagined people downloading them. Did anyone actually visit the site? Probably not. But I had created something, and that was enough. It was fun, it was mine, and it sparked a creative drive that never left.
Growing up, I was the kid who was always into art, competing in school contests and occasionally winning, and writing essays that gave me a little rush when I won those, too. Creativity was my comfort zone. And while I had no idea what would come of it, I knew I wanted to build something of my own someday.
Fast forward to 2021. Out of the blue, the CEO of a company called Trndsttrs reached out on LinkedIn after seeing some of my insights on marketing and a few comments I’d left on Instagram that were gaining traction. Just like that, I found myself stepping into corporate America at 19, fresh out of high school. It was overwhelming, sure, but it was also thrilling. I was learning things I’d never get from a university lecture—handling clients, understanding operations, and seeing firsthand what makes marketing tick. Most importantly, I realized my passion for coming up with ideas and solving problems. It felt like I was finally on to something.
When I moved to Canada for university that fall, it was more than just a change of scenery. It was a fresh start. Until then, I’d been more introverted, the quiet one in the room. But in this new place, I saw how people who were open and social naturally attracted opportunities. If I wanted to make the most of this experience, I knew I’d have to step out of my shell. So, I started putting myself out there—volunteering at conferences, taking on public speaking roles, and pushing myself into social situations. It wasn’t easy, but I was learning that nothing great ever comes from staying comfortable.
My path in marketing took off when I helped a friend with his student union campaign. That one project introduced me to the chancellor of my university, who hired me to promote a nationwide campaign for a short story competition. One thing led to another, and before I knew it, I was consulting on strategy for Volunteer Lethbridge, working directly with the Executive Director. Seeing myself as the person people turned to for marketing insights was a huge confidence boost—it was like a signal that maybe this was more than just a hobby.
I think a lot of my drive comes from my roots in India. Growing up in an intense academic system made me resilient and taught me the value of hard work. By the time I reached university, the coursework felt lighter, almost like a break. But what stuck with me was a lesson from my past: that everyone has their own perspective, shaped by unique life experiences, and that it’s worth the effort to understand those perspectives. You don’t have to agree with everyone, but when you respect people’s stories, you’ll find common ground. And sometimes, just putting in a bit more effort—1% more than the rest—makes all the difference. It’s a simple philosophy, but it’s helped me build relationships and make an impact wherever I go.
Now, here I am—still figuring it out, still diving into new experiences, and still “doing it for the plot.” Life’s journey is ongoing, and each step adds a new chapter to the story. For me, it’s all about embracing each twist and turn and creating a life that feels full and meaningful. After all, at the end of the day, it’s the memories and the people we meet that make this journey truly unforgettable.
