The Chic Coach?

The Chic Coach is certainly not a blog about a fashionista! Although I am quite trendy, I suppose! Chic, here, means adopting the chic attitude of a winner. That is, having a strong mindset, speaking and seeing the good, being courageous and believing in yourself. As well, I always believed that neatness in one's demeanour, is neatness in one's life. Thus, Chic.

The main aim of The Chic Coach is to boost each and everyone who is on a mission to succeed their dreams. All of us have a dream. We are either living it or not. Some of us are on a pathway to reach it while others are completely lost in an opposite world. Showing you the right way, is the aim of The Chic Coach. It also aims at empowering women; especially Working  Moms, who are constantly struggling to achieve the perfect balance between family and career. These heroines deserve to be boosted so as to reach their maximum potential in both worlds. 

How did the adventure begin?

Well everything started with Virago Attitude, the former brand of my blog. I launched Virago Attitude while I was pregnant of my beautiful baby girl and this was the period where everything kicked off. From the conception of the blog, to my next career move; from knowing what I really wanted and how I can achieve it, it all began there. Virago Attitude went on well, and from it, emerged the very essence of The Chic Coach. Today I am on this new adventure but with still the same purpose, empowering people. 

 Where I was born and raised

From a  little island named, Mauritius. I feel so proud that I was born here, growing up with the breathtaking view of the azure sea and golden sand. The weather here motivates you to feel happy naturally. Of course we bake during summer, but I must not complain since I spent 4 winters in London, freezing myself day and night. Mauritius is also blessed by different cultures and religious beliefs. This has enabled me to learn about different values which I dearly respect. I am today on this quest to push Mauritian entrepreneurs and professionals further to reach their maximum potential, because this little island of mine needs a sustainable growth for our future generations.

Attitude of Gratitude

These words of thanks go to my parents who have given me the best of themselves. Without their sacrifice, I would not be who I am today. My husband, who has and is constantly supporting me in my endeavours. My baby girl; without you, sweetie, mommy wouldn't have had the strength to start. To my Guru, who shows me the way everyday.

And of course, to all my followers, because you all inspire me to go further.

So follow, share and spread the teachings!

 - Hustle Hard and Create Your Destiny. -

Dishina Woodhoo 

Priya, who are you?

I wish I knew myself!  I was born and raised in the UK, in an area called Hackney. My parents are Mauritian/Indian, so I was quite fortunate as a young child to travel and experience various African and Asian traditions and culture. I previously worked in media and PR and was then offered a job opportunity in Mumbai, which, I guess that's where it all began.

Imiloa... What is it?

That came about when I was on the road. I was in a somewhat "crossroad" situation ,whereby I had to make some drastic decisions career wise and personal ones too, so I left with VERY limited money and kicked off my own escapade. I met so many beautiful souls , random acquaintances and particularly one whimsical fella. It was this random stranger who asked me, "so what do you do?" I didn't have a reply at that time, so he just answered for me , "imiloa..." 

Which means someone who explores. It resonated well at the time... whether I was exploring my own vulnerabilities, self being or what was to come - it was apt timing. So the name just stuck. And to make sure I would never forget it, I got it tattooed on my wrist soon after! (lol) Today, Imiloa means so much more to me, and it became a design collective which focuses on disadvantaged artisans and artisans. Many of their craft is sadly becoming somewhat obsolete, so we ensure we create new designs and processes to upkeep their traditions and make it marketable. We provide a platform for their creativity by nurturing and exploring their traditional techniques. 

Imiloa, is about building and unifying artisans. A creative community - no matter their race, ethnicity, gender, caste or disability. My intention is solely about the artisans. For me, my goal is their goal. I simply want to help them reach their potential. It's about creating that realm of hope for others.sometimes you have to plummet to great lows to regain your strength. So I guess the difficulty is, finding that eternal faith and strength when you are rock bottom.

Tell us how you embarked on this adventure?

When I returned from my road trip, I pretty much had a better grasp of where I wanted to be, and what I wanted to do. I had very little funds at the time. But a great support came from my friends and family who would fine tune my business plan. I focused mainly on the creative aspects, where my heart and soul is. I  knew for certain my focus was Africa, and Mauritius which would be my stepping stone.

So with little funds, I tested our concept by doing the first ever pop up shop in Mauritius 2012. I converted a 100 year-old building into a boutique displaying our artisanal goods and sourcing finds. The response was overwhelming, and from that moment onwards, I knew I was onto a good thing...

Where does this intense passion come from?

From a very young age I was always  told and re- re told of the hardship of my parents, grandparents and families who left their native homelands with literally nothing in their pockets to live and settle in foreign countries. Their aim was to fulfil their dreams. It was about making a difference and creating a whole new foundation for generations to come.

Just to hear their stories of such endurance and perseverance is as heartbreaking as it is inspirational. But it shows drive and stamina. I admire that, personally, you have to be hungry for your goal in order for your passion to settle in.

To be honest, I'm far from being silverspoon fed, but I am in a position where I can aid those who are less fortunate. If I see someone has talent, I want to help them grow and expand  into whoever they want to be or become. If I didn't have the same guidance I don't think I would be where I am today.

As a woman entrepreneur, what were the difficulties you have to put up with?

I mirror a lot of my mum's ideologies and strength. She is and still is a very strong woman, who juggled so much to achieve a successful career. She never placed any emphasis on gender, but on diligence and hard work ethics. So I guess I'm the same. 

To be honest, the real difficulty was to take on the business in the first place. To leave those natural comforts of having a regular pay cheque, and the security that comes with it. I've had to sacrifice so much, missed out on so many things.  But in return, I've  acquired grounding values and experiences that makes you unbreakable. When you run your own business and responsible for people's wages, and their well being, etc - your priority shifts, you just overcome constraints, failing is not option.

I've experienced so many ups and downs , where I have realized more and more that there is no such thing as difficulties or setbacks, it's all a learning curve...

What is your driving force?

When I'm on the road, I'm sometimes in the most poverty- stricken places. I live the way they do, eat the way they do, I adopt their lifestyle and its certainly eye- opening. Yet despite their improverished conditions, their positivity and warmth is admirable.  When I am sinking in my own ordeal, it's short lived, because I reflect on these incredible beings - nothing is comparable in terms of their courage and tenacity. What pushes me further is seeing the results of what we do. Just to see those in unprivileged circumstances and how we  make a difference for them makes me strive further and further.

The future of Imiloa?

There are so many plans on how I want to develop imiloa. But as I am told by my peers each step at a time. I strongly want to get more and more companies, institutions, etc more ethically aware of our artisanal concept. We are slowly moving towards the hotel industry with some exciting projects, our online shop is also in progress. I suppose it's the unpredictability of the decisions made and how they come about that make this business challenging, you just never know what will come up next!

Priya has a beautiful little shop in Pointe aux Canonniers. She proudly displays the amazing art works of her artisans. These are just a few amazing work of art. I love the shopping bags made out of news papers.

And finally, a piece of advice for woman entrepreneurs out there?

Many artisan believe that their form of art is insignificant and they are completely unaware of how talented and valuable their craft is, so to be able to restore their confidence and watch them grow into individual entrepreneurs, is beyond words. There's no work without play and vice versa. Live it, experience it and enjoy it. Be positive. Failure is your backbone to success. Let your intuition be your guide and don't conform. Just remember the people who take risks are the ones who create opportunities, don't limit yourself with fear. It's a game of law of attraction - what you put out there, you get back!

Priya Ramkissoon. A woman with a heart of gold, a woman of steel. Follow her beautiful adventure on Facebook and Instagram: Imiloa

Gentlemen.

Of course you wont be asked to do a french manicure, but a minimum maintenance of those manly fingers are needed. Simply, keep your nails well clipped and clean. 

Hair

Ladies & Gentlemen.

Make-up

Ladies.

Gentlemen:

Stop at moisturising cream or BB cream please. (lol!)

Beard

Nowadays the "no-shave November" seems to be going on throughout the year. At work though, it is better you opt from clean shaven to stubble long. Not only it looks clean and neat, it also adds a touch of style to your professional look.

Body language is all about the way you walk, you sit, you use your hands. 

A professional language would mean to speak without the use of slangs. 

This is probably my favorite part!

Ladies:

• Avoid deep cuts that reveal too much cleavage.
• Micro mini or mini skirts are a big no-no. 
• Knee length or pencil cuts are in and better looking.
• Make sure your trousers are not too tight and revealing.
• No jeans please. Unless it is casual Friday.
• Avoid those flashy neon colours. Instead add a dash of subtle or fast colours.
• Add a scarf or a blazer to finish your look. 
• Avoid hoops and cuffs. Wear one significant accessory with the rest discreet. Either the earring, the bracelet or the ring. But not all three together as it looks bulky.
• Opt for black, brown, off white, navy blue, marroon or nude shoes. Avoid pink, red, orange, animal prints and flowers. 
• Heels can range from flats to maximum 3.5 inches.

Gentlemen:

• Well-ironed shirts and blazers.
• Ties - It's OK to be funny, let's avoid being vulgar.
• Yes today's fashion is about wearing shirts of different colours, but avoid the flashy colours.
• Trousers please, no jeans. Unless it is casual Friday. 
• Don't forget your belt, it adds a touch of style.
• No trainers, sketches, sneakers, converse, timberlands or cowboy boots, but wear only formal shoes!
• Keep your shoes clean and well polished. Wear them with socks!

You may not realise, but we wear so many different facial expressions throughout the day. However we must control them in front of our clients and our hierarchy.

• Avoid frowning as it gives an angry look.
• Avoid having a sulky face. 
• And of course, smile as much as you can!

We all want to be fashionable, and we can be that at work too. However always remember not to overdo. Adopt an elegant and professional look. Have a sneak at pinterest for best ideas!

If you have a uniform, respect it. Accessorise it well and wear it with the right shoes.

Too much make up can spoil your look, but no make up either can give you a sullen one. Make sure you look fresh by using some BB cream or face powder if you do not like makeup.

Check your body odour. This is a major problem in many organisations. Always carry a body spray with you. If you sweat a lot, don't hesitate to bring along a spare shirt or blouse.

You are the ambassador of your organisation. Whether or not you wear a uniform, you are a member of that family. Therefore you constantly represent that firm. You project an image and therefore create an impression and a reputation. Watch out your behaviour and your attitude when you deal with the public.

Know the history and background of your company as much as you can. Keep updated with what is going on and show that you care.

It is not only the company that gives you a status, 

you give that company a reputation too.

As we arrive at crossroads in our lives, there are moments of decisions that arise. Never doubt. Never for a single second think that you will take the wrong turn. Because if you think so, so will you do. Whatever you decide, however you behave is in your control. Therefore you are the creator of your own actions, thoughts and destiny. With this in mind, you can turn your life into how you wanted it to be.

The universe has the best to give you. Say you have it, but don't just say it. Feel it. And watch it coming.

When you are in front of a huge wall, and you have no choice but climb it, achieving it does not depend on your physical stamina but it depends on the power of you mind to push you beyond limits. Exactly how the Marines do their training. If you say you can achieve it, so you can.

Attitude enables aptitude to gain altitude. If you have a good attitude, you will be capable, and if you are capable, you will ascend. Being gloomy, negative, angry, jealous, envious, nervous will only drag you down.

Holding onto grudges is like pouring poison down your throat. It does not do any harm to the person you are angry against or disappointed about, it only disturbs the peace within you. Forgive people because we all make mistakes and let go. If you wish to move on from those people, then do so. But don't hold the grudge behind, because then there is no point.

There is absolutely no use of wealth, success and beauty if there is no health. Good health comes from a good state of mind. A good state of mind is made up of a strong willpower, positive thinking, gratefulness and unconditional love.

With those 7 powerful affirmations, I saw wealth, health, prosperity and happiness coming my way. Write yours down! Remember, be clear, precise and be in the present. If an affirmation is written in future tense, it will remain in the future!

Life is big! Short, but big. 

With big decisions to make, big adventures to take and big situations to handle. We become so devoted to our career, so engulfed in our daily routines and so concerned with our worries that we forget about those little things that make a huge difference in our life. As we are all connected to our little things but too often take them for granted, times and again, we ought to take time to enjoy the little things in life.  In them we are bound to experience greatest moments of joy and find some peace of mind. 

Today, take it seriously and write down the precious little things that make you sigh, and once a week, enjoy them with every inch of yourself.

Hustle Hard and Keep Shining.

In the 1990s, an eighteen-year-old headed to Australia to realise his worldly dreams.With the little money or support, he struggled to survive there. Two years later, he was earning an annual income of $250, 000; by the age of twenty-six, he was a multimillionaire. Yet worldly success was merely a way station on a journey that began years ago.

As an eight-year-old, he saw a vision of God in a dream, an experience that left his with a sense of deep joy and peace. The dream triggered off his desire to meet God, to see a manifestation of the Divine. He practised astrology, intense meditation and tantra, yet God was nowhere in sight. Deeply frustrated, he dived into materialistic pursuits to distract himself from the restlessness within.

After years of living the good life, he found he could no longer ignore the old restlessness; worldly pleasures just couldn't fill the void within. He moved back to India and finally did what he had always yearned to do; renounce the world and become a monk.

In the Himalayas, in terrifying silence and solitude, Om Swami practised intense meditation. Death was always close as he confronted starvation, the fierce elements and wild animals. Sleeping on soiled floors and dusty mattress or hard benches. Getting stung by scorpions. Losing completely all appetite and feeding only on biscuits. Bathing with icy water and above all; sleeping in a cave with insects and rats. Finally, his sadhana brought him to the ultimate realization: 

"I am what I have been seeking."

Gems from the book:

"I began to see how I - and everyone around me - was an exact replica of the universe.If there were numerous tar in the universe, the macrocosm, there were a sun and moon beyond, there was a solar and lunar channel of breathing within. If there was 70 per cent water on the earth, there was also 70 per cent water in my body."

"The truth is that our future is determined by the choices we make today, and our today is resting on the choices we made yesterday."

"Enlightenment does not mean you have to live like a pauper. It does not mean you have to subject yourself to a life of hardship and abstinence. On the contrary, to be enlightened means to live in the light of love, compassion and truthfulness."

"Your knowledge of rituals and the scriptures, the time you spend in places of worship, the money you raise for religious causes - such things, I am sorry to tell you, have absolutely no connection with God unless the heart is open to the Divine."

"Wisdom speaks only to those who are pen to the truth, and insight does not speak at all; it just dawns. So, I cannot give you any insight, it must come from within. I can only share my own learning."

"An amazing journey into the daily harsh routines of an aspirant who finally attains bliss. If Truth Be Told deserves 5*." - Viragoattitude