Sonal was born in Uganda, diagnosed with Congenital Hip Dysplasia and lives with a disability and chronic pain, but this has not stopped Sonal from leading an exciting and eclectic career. Sonal was a child performer with the English National Opera & Sadlers Wells. She also worked over 20 years as a Civil Servant.
At the age of 50, Sonal launched her own business and is one of two Asian Female Toastmasters and a Public Speaking Expert. She has received many awards and is featured in publications. Sonal has been a serving Magistrate since 2004 and is a published author in two collaboration books. She is a great supporter of charities including Shishukunj, SKSN and Saving Dreams. She is married to Dhani and they have two dogs.
Sonal’s motto is “Dare To Dream - Dare to be Different. The World is your Stage”
1) Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
I do love India, but I feel most at home in the UK. It is the country where my parents brought me up, I was educated here, and my best friends are nearby. It is a land of opportunity if you are prepared to work hard to follow your dreams.
2) What are your proudest achievements?
Child performer at the English National Opera and performed at The Royal Albert Hall. Appointed as a Magistrate in my 30s. Getting married in my 40s and starting my own business in my 50’s. Working with children and adults building better relationships and confidence. Giving couples their ceremony of choice.
3) What inspires you?
I am inspired by individuals who do not follow what is expected of them. They follow their own dreams and passions by challenging, breaking down barriers and supporting others. I am inspired by those who live with disability and chronic pain yet get up each day and smile. Much like myself.
4) What has been the biggest obstacle in your career?
Working with managers with no people skills, the lack of understanding of racism, cultural differences, and disability. The unconscious bias that was prevalent but never spoken about. In fact, it was often just brushed under the carpet in the hope that no one would notice or say anything.
5) Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
My parents. From a young age, I knew that I was different and did not want to follow what everyone else was doing, but I also knew that with a disability this would not always be possible. My parents showed me that hard work, persistence, and resilience was the key.
6) What is the best aspect about your current role?
As an Independent Celebrant & Toastmaster, I get to help create unique ceremonies where I can bring in my Asian knowledge and experience. As a Public Speaking Expert, I am helping children and adults learn life skills that will help them succeed through life’s journey and cope with their Mental Health.
7) And the worst?
The pressure that families put on an individual for their wedding ceremony, education, and life. They do not listen to what the individual really wants to do. Also, the parents that stress their children out as they feel qualifications are the only way forward to a successful life.
8) What are your long-term goals?
That more people understand the role and value of an Independent Celebrant & Toastmaster. That Independent Celebrants become licensed to deliver legal ceremonies giving couples choice. That Public Speaking and Life Skills are in the curriculum and employment L&D activities. That disability and chronic pain is further understood and managed effectively.
9) If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
I hope its ok to choose two. An enhanced education, learning and development curriculum where the focus is to teach Life Skills, including Storytelling, Communication and Confidence and a real genuine understanding of Diversity, Inclusion, Disability, Difference and Racism for those who are in positions of power.
10) If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
Mother Teresa, I love everything about her selfless work putting religion aside and helping those in need. Also, she met Mahatma Gandhi, another historical figure I admire. They both believed in harmony, devotion to human welfare and compassion which is how we should all strive to live.