Break the Barrier
Hailing from traditional South Asian roots, I took on a nontraditional path with my passion project missioned to increase representation in mainstream media. Throughout my modeling journey, I've been blessed to be part of modeling campaigns for brands such as Express Fashion and Maison Margiela to walking the runway for New York Fashion Week and covering it as Press.
As I grew my platform, I realized so many of us are hesitant in taking that leap of faith because we don’t have visibility to the mentors or guides that we can look up to, ask questions to, or be our support system. As a result, many of us default to the traditional careers that our parents consider successful - but we may be left feeling unfulfilled. I want to take this mission to the next level and introduce successful and happy powerhouse voices in our community who are breaking barriers by pursuing full-time careers outside of what’s traditionally considered successful.
For our younger, current, and older generations: it is never too late to start again or dream a new dream. My mission is to show in a fun, lighthearted way that you can absolutely find happiness in a path less taken. This is my baby: Break the Barrier
Break the Barrier
Let's Talk NBA Dancing with Kajal Raju, Professional NBA Dancer for the Charlotte Hornets
I’m so excited to be speaking today with Kajal Raju, the first South Asian woman to dance for the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. She just recently completed a year on this dance team, and she balances this career with a full-time role in tech as a Product Manager. She is passionate about amplifying South Asian voices in the arts and entertainment industry, and has so many gems to share with us regarding her journey.
In this episode, we will highlight Kajal’s journey on how she moved across the country from California to North Carolina to pursue NBA dancing, how she balances her corporate role with NBA dancing/friends/family/and everything in between, and what’s in store for her future. Welcome, Kajal!