What does "being strong" mean to you?I’ve often found myself wondering what it really means to be strong. Over time, I’ve come to see that it’s not the huge transformations but rather the small, steady ones that have made the biggest difference in my life. It’s those tiny, incremental steps that add up to real growth. For me, being strong rests in the quiet moments of reflection when I hit a rough patch, in recognizing what I can improve, and in pushing through even when it feels the hardest. It’s always the little incremental changes that have helped me build strength.
How have your trials made you stronger? In the past, when challenges came my way, I wasn’t always great at handling them and often ended up being hard on myself. But through a lot of reflection and countless small changes, things gradually improved. It’s amazing how those tiny, seemingly insignificant steps eventually paved the way for a major shift in my mindset. Now, when I face difficulties, I just need to look back to see how far I’ve come. That perspective gives me the confidence to tackle whatever’s in front of me. It turns out that a series of trials, big and small, were key in transforming my mindset and ultimately making me stronger.
Who is a female role model in your life and why? My biggest role model is my mother, who embodies resilience, curiosity, and strength in the most profound ways. I’ve watched her face countless challenges with unwavering determination. Even in the toughest times, she takes a moment to step back, gather her thoughts, and strategize, only to return with renewed energy and a clear plan. Her boundless curiosity drives her to constantly seek out new knowledge, adding depth and purpose to her life. On top of all this, she is one of the warmest, kindest people I’ve ever met, with a deep empathy for others. She's my role model because there seems to always be something I can learn from her.
How can you be strong and vulnerable? I've always felt that strength and vulnerability go hand in hand. It takes real courage to admit when you’re wrong or recognize that you can improve. To me, the process of reflecting and becoming more self-aware is like peeling away layers of discomfort with vulnerability. As you face and embrace these moments, you push through, learn more, and strive harder. In the end, this journey of facing your vulnerabilities makes you a stronger person.
If you could ask a question to other women regarding strength, what would you ask? I’d love to know: what is one personal habit you’ve developed that enhances your self-reflection and understanding of your broader social context, and what is one habit that has proven especially helpful in navigating a difficult moment?
Shivani’s Intentional Act of Kindness
How did you use the $100? I donated $100 to support a program that empowers economically underserved women in India by teaching them vocational skills. This donation specifically funded training for creating jute artifacts, such as wallets and handbags, which are then sold at a jute handicrafts store. This initiative helps these women develop valuable skills and provides them with a sustainable source of income.
I firmly believe that acquiring a skill that enables self reliance is crucial, particularly for underserved women who often lack this opportunity. Learning a vocational skill can significantly bridge the gap left by the absence of formal education, empowering individuals to achieve financial freedom. By fostering their own growth and development, these women can hopefully create a pathway to a better future for themselves and their children, setting the stage for lasting positive change.
What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? This experience prompted me to reflect on the concept of being "intentional" and what it truly means to offer an "intentional blessing." While I was eager to give back, I wanted my contribution to resonate with my own values and have real significance. Growing up, my grandmother, Tai, always inspired me to work hard, study diligently, and develop skills for self-sufficiency. Even though she was well-educated, she never worked outside the home, a choice I came to understand over time. My mother echoed similar values, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance. This project made me more aware of my own privileges and my desire to share opportunities with those who might not have had the same advantages. I wanted to support women who, like many of us, are striving for a better future and who could benefit from a chance to gain skills and self sufficiency.