As we celebrate South Asian Heritage Month with the theme ‘Free to Be Me’, I reflect on my unique journey and the challenges I’ve overcome as a South Asian woman. Growing up, there was an expectation that I would pursue a traditional career in engineering, medicine, law, or accountancy. While I did study engineering initially, my passion for helping people and combining it with HR led me to a career in recruiting.
Navigating my own cultural identity, I strive to make a difference every day. Balancing my career with being a first-generation immigrant in the UK and a mom to a lively little girl, I’ve learned the importance of resilience and fostering a supportive family environment. In my role as an Asian Indian recruiter, I encourage diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. I believe in creating environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.
My journey has been further enriched by earning a CIPD diploma in the UK, which has enhanced my ability to promote fair employment practices and organizational wellbeing. Guided by the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The world is one family), I try to make a difference in my work every day. The world is changing, and with that, we must change too and tell the stories that need to be told the most.
This month, let’s celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of South Asia and embrace our identities. Together, we can continue to champion diversity and share stories that inspire positive change.
The exhibition ‘Unsung Heroes of World War I’ featured historical artifacts, photos and news clippings on the Asian (Indian, Nepalese Bangladeshi – the Indian subcontinent, along with Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesian soldiers in WW1, as well as other moments in South Asian history.
As the saying goes, “Like mother, like daughter.” In the case of creative talents, this couldn’t be more true. The influence of a mother’s creativity can leave a lasting impact on her children, shaping their own artistic endeavours and passions. In this journal I explore the profound impact my mother’s creative legacy has influenced me and how Sohavi was truly born. Roots to routes explores my late mothers life journey from birth in Kenya to India as a teenager and eventually returning to Kenya in her 20’s , to marry my father Sardar Tirlochan Singh Dhamu, to emigrate to London from Nairobi in October 1973 and live out the rest of her life. Despite experiencing loss and trauma, she endured difficulties n her younger years and made the best of her life in my fathers trusting hand, he led her to a new life in London.
As an update from my last article, I can say that the past year has been both adventurous and fulfilling. I’ve faced a mix of opportunities
South Asian Heritage Month dates changed to "July" from 2026 — Learn more here →
