Breaking Barriers

Balancing Motherhood, Business, and Public Speaking from age 19.

My journey as a speaker

Being on stage from the age of four, performing dance, acting and singing, helped build my confidence in public speaking. I was often on stage at primary and secondary school and became a theatre artist at 14, acting and compering shows.

At 19, I was invited to speak at a local cooperative bank in India, inspiring women to create new opportunities for themselves. From there, I continued to share my story and speak to people about finding new pathways in life.

As a young single mother, creating a better life for my son was a big part of what drove me forward. That journey shaped who I am and continues to influence the stories I share today.New Zealand opened new doors for me as a speaker. I began sharing my creative journey, life experiences, challenges and achievements with audiences ranging from small groups to large public festivals.

Over the years, my talks have also grown to include wellness, spices, holistic living, creativity and positive everyday practices.

I bring a cheerful and genuine approach to every talk, connecting with people through real stories, practical ideas and experiences from my own journey.

Speeches & Wellness Talks

From a young entrepreneur and single mother in India to a creative journey in New Zealand, my story is shaped by resilience, culture and a love of learning. Here is my story. 

I share simple ways to bring more balance and well-being into everyday life through mindful habits, healing spices and holistic living. Explore wellness topics. 

I love sharing stories, ideas and practical experiences that inspire people, build confidence and bring communities together. Explore Inspiring Conversations

A Journey of Speaking & Sharing

I had the incredible honour of sharing my story at the HER Festival in 2023, just before the keynote speech by Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand. This unforgettable experience allowed me to connect with a diverse audience and celebrate the power of women’s voices. Check out the festival’s full agenda below. I received complementing private messages after my speech. 

Anju Desai sharing her inspiring story as a guest speaker on stage at a festival, captivating the audience with her journey and experiences

Inspiring and Engaging Speeches

My talks can also explore Indian culture and traditions, Ayurveda, simple living, gratitude, journaling and positive everyday rituals.

Let’s talk – hello@anjudesai.co.nz 

How I Can Help

Anju Desai form Auckland New Zealnd is wellness coach, artist, speaker, author and event organiser.

Hi there!

It is wonderful to connect with you here. I love sharing stories, ideas and conversations that inspire people and bring them together. My work brings together my experiences in wellness, creativity, art, entrepreneurship and culture, with a simple and practical approach to everyday life.

Through my speaking, podcast and forum, I explore topics that encourage wellbeing, creativity, personal growth and connection. I also share simple ideas and everyday practices that can help us live with more balance and purpose.

Interested in exploring wellness with me? Visit my Wellness Sessions to see what I offer, or take a look at my Current Events for upcoming workshops, talks and events.

Thank you for stopping by. I look forward to connecting with you.

Anju Desai

What Our Clients Say

Hi Anju I saw you speak y’day at Her festival. Thank you for your story. As a single parent and survivor of domestic violence your story resonated very strongly with me. You have also inspired me to believe in the next chapters of life and that one can start afresh. I’m finally getting my strength and power back as an independent woman and your description of returning to your creativity and regaining your spirit and strength has stuck with me ever since your talk. Thank you so much. Your resilience humility honesty and self belief was intoxicating. You have given me a huge amount of faith that starting again isn’t a negative but a positive opportunity. Thank you so much xx Sarah

Sarah Hodgetts

I was very inspired by your sharings and have really thought about the best action to demonstrate to my children. To be the inspiration for them as we are their role models so they be empowered to have healthy relationships in the future 

Thank you very much and hope more people will get inspired by your story and thought and morels. 🙏

Nicky Hartley

Thank you, Anju, and the wonderful women who took part. It was inspiring to listen to their stories.

Daryl Cole Curnow

Participating in the Auckland World of Cultures 2024 Women’s Forum was an enriching experience. Anju’s thorough and professional approach, coupled with her warm and authentic demeanour, made the event seamless and cohesive. The pre-event Zoom meetings fostered a sense of community and ensured we were well-prepared.
 
I felt in safe, experienced hands with Anju’s meticulous attention to detail and interpersonal skills. I wouldn’t hesitate to work with her again. 

Sarah Shepard

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