A chicken soup makeover!
Dressed in a moss-green kurta and white trousers and armed with a warm candour, Swetha Reddy has an aura of serenity as she opens up about her life and her year-old venture, Kaizen, that hosts workshops to motivate young adults to excel and believe that success is within reach.
A homemaker for the better part of her life and a known name in Chennai’s social circuit, Swetha chanced upon a workshop being conducted by Jack Canfield (author of the Chicken Soup For The Soul series), called ‘Train the Trainer.’ That session, changed her life.
Sharing her experience of training under Jack Canfield, she says, “I was the only person in the group who had never worked in my life. But after completing the modules, I came back to Chennai filled with confidence and a lot of zeal. I started my own company, and thus Kaizen, which means ‘to change for the better’ in Japanese, was born.
“I have always been an organised person and like to plan each and every aspect of my life. The planning is to such an extent that my husband and teenage daughters call me ‘boringly predictable.’ I wake up at 5am for my yoga and sleep early every day. In spite of the fact that I am a die-hard foodie, I eat in moderation,” says Swetha, who is married to Amarnath Reddy, MD, AR Foundation.
Often spotted in trousers, kurtas and casual shirts at various events in the city, Swetha is known for her understated sense of style. Quiz her about her favourite shopping haunts and she says, “I love the colour red. It reflects positivity and cheerfulness. So irrespective of the brands and stores, I pick up bright red outfits. But one thing I am particular about is my lipstick, I like to stick to Mac and that is one brand I really like,” she says.
Travelling is also something that Swetha enjoys, especially with her family. “I love travelling to new places and learning new things about different cultures with my husband. University towns are my favourite; I remember going to Boston and sitting for hours on park benches and observing the campus life closely. I have also enjoyed my trips to New Zealand, Australia and Africa,” adds Swetha.
Swetha maintains a healthy lifestyle, but loves to try out different cuisines. “Dimsums, sushi rolls and salads that are available in Chennai are my favourite. They are light and delicious,” she says.