The COVID-19 pandemic has already altered the world in a million ways, and we have no idea how things will turn out after the pandemic is literally, over. Unfortunately, it has resulted in a tragically large economic downturn and has disproportionately affected some professions — doctors, nurses, teachers, small business owners, cashiers, and food-industry workers, those in the frontlines.
In the last decade, we’ve witnessed an uptick in the number of makeup artists that have been emphasising on diversity in their creative work reflected in one’s colour, gender and age. But those with disabilities have sadly been singled out.
Well, one remarkable story has just begun!
Most independent beauticians made up of makeup artists and hairstylists are in this predicament, as the virus has completely shut down their industry. To make this article more interesting, Team Varnam has reached out to Namvinsha Kaur, the founder of Vinisha Henna Design to get more insights on how an average business day looked like before and after the pandemic which has resulted in a temporal shut down of the wedding industry.
Born and raised in Taiping, Perak, Namvinsha is fondly known as a talented henna artist who has been peddling her entrepreneurial skills despite her physical constraints. Although born with deformities in both her hands and legs, her disabilities never once hindered her dream of becoming a henna artist, so instead of giving up, she just had to get creative and find another way to make her dream become a sweet reality.
Namvinsha is a story of perseverance and success. She doesn’t think of her disability as something that stops her from doing things.
Having graduated with a Diploma in Multimedia Management from Multimedia College (Perak), Vinsha’s interest in henna began because of her disability.
After perfecting her technique, the 31-year-old young lass applied to several workplaces related to her field of study, but only to be rejected due to her disability. Her determined spirit did not give up, she paved her own path instead, and launched her own henna site on social media platforms called ‘Vinisha Henna Design’ in 2015.
“I really had to bring positivity to the situation. I actually began applying henna because I was being picked on,” she said.
Despite being surrounded by loving friends and family, not everyone had supported Vinsha and her passion. Vinsha is cared for by her mum and still lives life as normally as possible by working and spending time with her loved ones. For this superwoman, her greatest pillar, comforter, advisor, mentor, role model is no one other than her MOM.
“When I’m down and out in a funk with no hope in sight, I keep in mind that my mother has been in exactly the same situation as me. Her tale gives me the motivation to get back on my feet and the courage to tell my experience to the audiences.”
Regardless of Vinsha’s can-do spirit, she will have to deal with the repercussions of her impairments.
“My biggest challenge is being reliant – If I want to go anywhere or do something, I’ll always have to have someone by my side, which is extremely challenging,” Vinsha added.
This outbreak has been challenging for all beauticians and Vinsha is among one of them. It has affected her in all different ways, but it has also taught her to push herself beyond her comfort zone and to implement other innovative strategies to make a living.
“COVID-19 has definitely impacted me financially. There’s no point in shying away from that. I’m making almost 90% less than what I was bringing in before the pandemic,” said Vinsha.
When asked about the kind of advice she has for the younger ones who have a keen interest in Henna art, Vinsha said;
“Never let anyone or anything stand in the way of your dreams. If you have a vision, you must make it a reality since you are the only one who can achieve it.”
A woman is capable of doing so many things in the world. But, a wonder woman is the one who can do everything not only for herself but for her loved ones too.
The wedding industry might resume back in business, and if you’re planning to hire a professional and talented henna artiste at an affordable price, don’t hesitate to contact Namvinsha!
Check out the poster below:
Vinsha is no longer reluctant to reveal herself to the world because she knows her worth. I’m sure that her tale will significantly change other people’s perceptions and hearts. This is truly about people realising that people with disabilities have worth and are equally valued. They are noteworthy and deserve a pat on the back.
If her beautiful journey doesn’t prove that all dreams can become a reality if you set your mind to them, I don’t know what does. I hope Namvinsha’s journey will inspire you to go out there and chase your dreams!
Keep inspiring the many young women out there, Vinsha!
