With Diwali upon us, I find myself reflecting on two journeys that have shaped my life, my personal connection to the Festival of Lights and my professional journey at Transport for London.
While they may seem very different at first, both reflect values that are deeply important to me, community, connection, and the belief that when people come together, something truly special can happen.
I have worked for TfL for more than 11 years, and it has been an extraordinary journey. Joining the organisation was not part of my original plan. While on maternity leave from my role at John Lewis, a friend mentioned a Customer Service Assistant vacancy with London Underground. As I learned more about TfL, I was immediately drawn to its values and the difference it makes to millions of people every day.
Over the years, one of the things that has made me most proud is TfL's commitment to inclusion and accessibility. That commitment was on full display at last week's Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas celebration at our head office in Southwark.
From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted by an immediate sense of warmth and belonging. The vibrant colours, beautifully decorated displays, and gentle glow of traditional diyas made the room feel both joyful and inviting.
The ambient sound of Devotional music, classical Indian dance, energetic Bhangra performances and the rhythmic beat of dhol drummers created a lively and joyful atmosphere.
Colleagues, friends and family members gathered around henna and art stalls, enjoyed traditional prasad, Diwali sweets and hot chai took the opportunity to learn more about Hindu, Sikh and Jain traditions.
For me, events like these are about far more than marking a date in the calendar. They provide an opportunity to learn from one another, strengthen relationships and build a sense of belonging.
My Diwali memories stretch back to childhood. After moving to the UK from Mumbai in 2006, I carried those traditions with me. Growing up, our home was always filled with family, friends, food, and laughter. Today, I continue that tradition, welcoming loved ones into my home and celebrating in the same spirit of warmth and hospitality.
Some of my most rewarding experiences at TfL have come through my involvement with the Colleague Network Groups. They have given me the chance to connect with people from a wide range of backgrounds and gain a deeper understanding of experiences different from my own. One experience, in particular, inspired me to become more involved with the ‘Raising Awareness of Culture and Ethnicity’ ColleagueNetwork Group.
As a manager, I supported a colleague through IVF treatment, and having listened to colleagues share their personal experiences at network group events I have a much greater appreciation of the emotional, physical, and financial challenges involved, and reinforced the importance of creating a supportive and understanding workplace.
Today, our Colleague Network Groups helps colleagues feel connected, supported, and valued. Through mentoring, workshops, heritage celebrations, and social events, it creates opportunities for people to learn from one another, build confidence, and bring their whole selves to work.
As a Customer Service Manager, I lead a team of more than 100 colleagues and oversee operations across nine Tube stations. While no two days are ever the same, my priority is always to help customers travel safely, confidently, and comfortably across London.
For me, Diwali is a reminder that our greatest strength comes from the connections we build with one another. The festival celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, and that spirit lives on through acts of kindness, inclusion, and community. It's a message that stays with me long after the lights have dimmed and one that I hope we can all carry with us throughout the year.
