Not Just Skin Deep
MUMBAI, March 3, 2016- Asia Society India Centre in association with the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai, welcomed to the platform Nina Davuluri, Miss America 2014 in conversation with Malavika Sangghvi, Journalist and Founder, SANGUINE on the opinions of beauty in India, its impact on self-image and the various roles women undertake.
Growing up in the United States Davuluri was quickly confined to the typical stereotypes and perceptions associated with an Indian girl. Proudly, Davuluri claimed her success to her three role models: her grandmother, mother, and sister, all of whom have all played a vital role in building her confidence to achieve her dreams. With this in mind Davuluri was encouraged to participate in the Miss American pageant; understanding the importance of a role model, she wanted to ensure young Asian-Americans had one too.
As Miss America 2014, she was determined to use her title and platform to create a community of colleges, universities, offices of diversity and exclusion to promote the message to look beyond beauty. When asked by Sangghvi about her thoughts on beauty notions and whether they empower or discourage a woman, Davuluri was quick to say it empowers women encouraging them to learn skills that can be used for greater initiatives. With a medical degree, Davuluri also has a partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Education promoting women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) related fields.
She is exhilarated to join the political community in the United States, and aims to become the US Ambassador to India in the future. When asked about diversity in the United States, Davuluri responded positively, saying that it is important for people of all ethnic backgrounds to come together to champion a cause, only then can the change begin.
Reported by Maneka Chotirmall, Programme Assistant, Asia Society India Centre.
This programme is part of Asia Society India Centre’s Women of Asia Series, which brings eminent women from the fields of Asian business, arts, culture and policy, and provides a senior level platform for discussion on issues of current interest affecting Asia and the world. This series promotes the collaboration and leadership of accomplished women through a range of informative and network building forums that facilitate the sharing of best practices, critical issues and personal experiences.
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