Congratulations MRS. PARVATHY RAVEENDRAN from Australia for being selected as a finalist of Mrs India International Queen 2024! Let’s know more about her. We interviewed Mrs. Parvathy and here are her amazing answers:

Name: Parvathy Raveendran

Profession: Technical Officer, Clinical Engineering

Qualification: M-Tech Power Systems

Location: Nowra, New South Wales, Australia

Strengths:

1. Inclusiveness:I prioritize creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and valued, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected, fostering a sense of belonging for all.
2. Boldness:I approach challenges and opportunities with courage and conviction, unafraid to take risks and stand up for what I believe in, inspiring others to do the same.
3. Cultural Ambassadorship:I pride myself on being a bridge between diverse communities through dance and community engagement, fostering cultural harmony.
4. Social Impact:My dedication to uplifting underprivileged youth and promoting women empowerment demonstrates my commitment to making a positive difference.
5. Resilience and Determination:I firmly believe in overcoming societal stereotypes and challenges, and I always persevere through personal and professional endeavours.
6. Inspirational Story:My journey and the values I advocate for, make for an inspiring narrative.
7. Adaptability:I’m adept at adapting to different environments and cultures, transitioning from India to Australia and actively engaging in both communities.

Weakness:

1. Overcommitment:Sometimes, I find myself taking on too much, which can lead to potential burnout if not managed carefully.
2. Perfectionism:I often set high standards for myself, which can sometimes result in spending too much time on tasks to ensure they meet my exacting standards

Likes:

1. Dancing and Cultural Exchange:I derive great joy from engaging in dance, which serves not only as a form of expression but also as a means of fostering cultural exchange and appreciation within communities.
2. Sports Enthusiasm:Tennis is a passion of mine, offering both physical activity and mental stimulation. The competitive yet graceful nature of the sport resonates with me deeply.
3. Yoga and Wellness:I find solace and rejuvenation in practicing yoga, which not only enhances physical flexibility and strength but also promotes mental clarity and inner peace.
4. Health Consciousness:Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, mindful eating, and prioritizing overall well-being is paramount to me. I am passionate about exploring new ways to nourish my body and mind for optimal health and vitality.

Dislikes:

1. Societal Stereotypes:I have a strong aversion to societal stereotypes, particularly those that limit individual potential based on gender, marital status, or cultural background.
2. Injustice:Inequality and injustice, especially concerning gender and social disparities, stir up strong feelings of discontent and fuel my drive for change.
3. Lack of Empathy:I find it challenging to tolerate attitudes lacking empathy or understanding towards others’ struggles.
4. Complacency:I’m disappointed by a lack of willingness to challenge the status quo or pursue personal and societal growth.

Tell us about your family:

My family is the bedrock of my existence, shaping my values, aspirations, and sense of identity. I am happily married to a wonderful man who is not only my life partner but also a source of unwavering support and encouragement. We live in Nowra, a beautiful town in New South Wales, Australia where he works as a Project Manager. He maintains a strong connection to our cultural heritage. His passion for our roots inspired him to start a production company dedicated to making films in Malayalam Film Industry, our native language.

Together, we are blessed with a beautiful son, who at seven years old, fills our lives with joy, laughter, and endless wonder. Being a mother has been one of the most fulfilling roles I’ve embraced, guiding and nurturing our son as he navigates the world around him.

I hail from a quaint town in Kerala, where I was born and raised amidst the lush greenery and vibrant culture of the region. My upbringing was deeply influenced by my family’s values and traditions. My father, a retired government servant turned businessman, instilled in me the importance of hard work, integrity, and community service. My mother, a savvy entrepreneur, exemplified resilience and determination in balancing family and business responsibilities.

I am also blessed with a younger brother, who resides in Germany, where he works as an engineer. Despite the geographical distance, our bond remains strong, and I draw inspiration from his pursuit of excellence and his adventurous spirit.

In my journey through life, my family has been my rock, providing unwavering love, guidance, and encouragement. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences have enriched my worldview and strengthened my resolve to make a positive impact in everything I do.

Quotes that keep you going, motivate you:

• “Let positivity be your compass, guiding you towards a world of endless opportunities and radiant transformations.” ~ Parvathy Raveendran
• “There are heroes, there are legends. Heroes get remembered, but legends never die. Follow your heart and you will never go wrong” ~ The Sandlot (Movie)
• “Age is irrelevant. Ask me how many sunsets I have seen, hearts I have loved, trips I have taken, concerts I have been to. That’s how old I am” ~Joelle
• “A sense of Humor. A taste of adventure. A healthy glow. Openness. Confidence. Humility. Intuition. Smartass Comebacks – That’s me” ~Unknown
• “You never know what someone is going through. A few nice words can help a person a lot more than you think” ~ Unknown
• “Don’t be afraid to get back up again, to try again, to live again and to dream again. Don’t let a hard lesson harden your heart. Rise up like a phoenix” ~ Unknown

Achievements/ Anything you are proud of yourself:

I am incredibly proud of several milestones in my life that reflect both professional excellence and personal triumphs. Firstly, I made history by becoming the first woman to be hired as a Biomedical Technical Officer in the Clinical Engineering department of Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia. This achievement not only broke barriers but also paved the way for greater gender diversity and representation in the field.

Additionally, I am proud to have been the pioneer in starting the first Indian dance school in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Region of New South Wales. Through this initiative, I was able to share my cultural heritage with the community and fostered a deeper appreciation for Indian dance and traditions.

On a personal note, overcoming pregnancy-related weight gain was a significant journey for me. With strong determination and a commitment to my self-care and wellness, I embarked on a transformative journey. In just one year, I successfully shed an impressive amount of weight, going from 94 kg to 53 kg. This journey not only transformed my physical health but also strengthened my resolve and discipline.

These achievements reflect my resilience, determination, and commitment to excellence in both professional and personal spheres. They serve as reminders of what can be accomplished with dedication, perseverance, and a belief in oneself.

What is Women Empowerment according to you?

Women empowerment is about creating an equitable and just society where every woman has the freedom, resources, and support to thrive, fulfill her potential, and contribute meaningfully to the world around her. It’s not just about uplifting individual women but also about transforming systems and structures to ensure gender equality and justice for all.

Women empowerment, to me, transcends gender boundaries—it’s about empowering every individual for a more equitable and inclusive society. While it’s crucial to address the specific challenges faced by women due to historical and systemic inequalities, true empowerment requires uplifting all genders and fostering an environment where everyone has equal opportunities, rights, and agency.

For me, women empowerment is not just about empowering women alone. I believe that limiting empowerment efforts to one gender would significantly reduce the success rate. Instead, it’s about creating a culture of empowerment that extends to every being, regardless of gender identity. It’s about dismantling patriarchal norms and biases that perpetuate inequality and marginalization, and championing diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all.

By empowering every individual—women, men, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals—we lay the foundation for a society where everyone can thrive and contribute their unique talents and perspectives. It’s about recognizing that gender equality is not a zero-sum game but rather a collective journey towards building a more just, compassionate, and harmonious world for all.

Message for the society:

Let us embrace the beauty of diversity and celebrate the richness of different cultures that make up our society. Through acts of kindness, compassion, and understanding, we can bridge gaps and foster harmony amongst diverse communities. Let us challenge stereotypes and break barriers, advocating for gender equality, inclusivity, and social justice for all.

Together, let us prioritize mental and physical well-being, supporting one another in our personal and professional journeys. Let us empower individuals to pursue their passions and dreams, regardless of gender, cultural background, or societal expectations.

May we continue to champion inclusivity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence, creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully. Let us lead by example, inspiring positive change and leaving a legacy of empathy, compassion, unity, and empowerment for generations to come.

How will you give back to society after becoming a Queen?
After becoming a Queen, I am committed to leveraging my platform to give back to society and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Drawing inspiration from my journey and the values I hold dear, I have several plans to contribute towards creating a better place to live in:

1. Promoting Cultural Harmony:I will continue my efforts to foster cultural harmony and appreciation by organizing more cultural exchange events, workshops, and performances. Through these initiatives, I aim to bridge gaps between diverse communities and promote understanding and unity.
2. Empowering Women and Youth:I will establish mentorship programs and initiatives focused on empowering women and youth, providing them with the resources, support, and guidance they need to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles. Additionally, I will advocate for gender equality and work towards creating opportunities for marginalized individuals to thrive.
3. Community Health and Wellness:I will launch initiatives aimed at promoting mental and physical well-being within communities. This will include organizing health camps, wellness workshops, and awareness campaigns to address issues such as mental health stigma, healthy eating habits, and access to healthcare services.
4. Education and Skill Development:I will support educational initiatives and skill development programs, particularly focusing on underprivileged youth and marginalized communities. By providing access to quality education and vocational training, I aim to empower individuals to build better futures for themselves and contribute positively to society.
5. Environmental Conservation:I will advocate for environmental conservation and sustainability efforts, promoting initiatives such as tree planting drives, waste management programs, and awareness campaigns on climate change. By raising awareness and mobilizing communities, I hope to contribute towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Overall, my goal as a Queen is to lead by example and inspire others to join me in making a difference. By prioritizing inclusivity, compassion, and social responsibility, I am dedicated to working towards creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a brighter future.

Why have you participated in Mrs India International Queen?

I am inspired to participate in Mrs India International Queen because it presents a platform where I can amplify my voice and advocate for causes close to my heart. As a woman of Indian heritage residing in Australia, I see this as an opportunity to celebrate my cultural identity while also promoting diversity and inclusion on a global stage.

In India, there’s a prevalent notion that marriage marks a turning point, often perceived as a barrier to personal aspirations. However, I firmly believe otherwise. I see marriage as a partnership—a union that fosters mutual support, empowerment, and the amplification of dreams.

Contrary to the belief that marriage hinders one’s ambitions, I’ve found that it serves as a catalyst for growth and achievement. Together with my partner, I’ve embarked on a journey where we uplift and inspire each other to reach for the stars. Marriage, to me, signifies not an end to individual dreams, but the beginning of a shared vision and collective success.

Participating in this beauty pageant is not just about personal fulfillment; it’s about challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers. It’s about showcasing to the world that marriage should not be viewed as a limitation but as a source of strength and empowerment. It’s an opportunity to exemplify that one’s dreams can flourish and evolve, regardless of marital status or age.

By stepping onto this stage, I aim to inspire women across the globe to embrace their full potential, defy societal expectations, and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. Together, let’s rewrite the narrative surrounding marriage and empower each other to soar to greater heights, hand in hand.