Pawana Shrestha, Country Manager of Etihad Airways, has something more than her current position. She is the grand-daughter of martyr Ganga Lal Shrestha, who was martyred by the then Rana regime in January 1941 for his alleged involvement in the movement against the Rana oligarchy. Pawana, who has been able to attain a prestigious position in a reputed international airline at a young age, can be a source of inspiration, especially for youngsters. Khabarhub talked to Pawana about her secret of success. Excerpts:
You come from a family with a political background. Your grandfather is a martyr. What made you enter the sector, which is totally different from politics?
In fact, I was interested in tourism from an early age. I still love interacting and meeting with new people. After my SLC, I taught for a while. I happened to join the aviation sector through my sister-in-law to work at the customer’s department of Gulf Air in Kathmandu. I enjoyed the way I interacted with my guests. I took my studies simultaneously. I then decided to develop my career ladder in this sector.
In Nepal’s context, the majority of women are still hesitant to come forward and work during odd hours. Moreover, society’s perspective to look at young working girls is still conventional. Have you ever had such an experience?
In fact, I always focused on my work and career since the very beginning. I never had the time to take those things seriously because my perception is that you cannot progress if you keep on running behind people, and paying attention to what they say about you. I believe I cannot change the way people think of me. I believe in proving myself, and to be myself. I need to deliver the task which I got to deliver. So, that has helped me a lot. Therefore, I am here.
How do you perceive the Nepali society, which is gradually adopting western culture?
Culture, customs, and values should not be forgotten in the pretext of modernization or westernization. That is our part of life. What I believe is that you need to have a modern way of thinking. It is an age of social media and networking, which we cannot remain aloof from it. However, this does not mean that we need to forget our tradition or custom. We need to take them simultaneously.
Nepal is observing 2020 Visit Nepal Year with an aim to bring in 2 million tourists. As a Country Manager of reputed international airlines, what is your observation?
In fact, Nepal has a huge potential in tourism. It has perfect weather. The priority should be to control pollution and make the cities clean and green. Nature has given us everything, and we only need to add more facilities.
Do you have any plans to join politics?
In fact, no. But I think we need to have political awareness. Casting a ballot is also a part of our contribution. What I believe is that we all need to have patriotic feelings. We have been contributing to the government in one way or the other.
Youths of today or the younger generation are often frustrated with the current state of affairs and lack of opportunities here. What is your take on this?
It’s all about how you perceive. If you think positively, you will see everything going on a positive note. You will feel the difference. You will start finding more opportunities. If you think negatively, you cannot see new opportunities. It’s all about your thinking process and your mindset.
How do you evaluate the government’s performance?
Frankly, not very satisfactory. However, I feel the government is endeavoring its best in all sectors. We, especially the younger generation, look for such a kind of leadership which can set examples by doing remarkable things by utilizing their utmost time in positive things. Leaders lack that sort of quality that the younger generation wants. They lack commitment, seriousness, and accountability. The government needs to work more.
What message do you want to give to the younger generation?
Keep your mind open and positive. Both your mind and your heart should work equally. Helping and supporting others will bring you long-lasting happiness. This is the essence of life. Whatever you do for yourself will just go away with your death and whatever you do for others will always remain with them. Time is very important. Do not stick to mobile phones. Be mindful and careful. Posting pictures on social media will not take you anywhere. Instead, develop your reading habits and focus on developing your career by setting a target. Refrain from comparing and competing with others. Do not focus on what peoples say about you. Be focused.
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