Meet Raman Mander. She’s a 25 year-old spoken word poet, a publisher, a podcast host and to top it off, a nurse as well.  She’s been a registered nurse in maternity for two and a half years. This past year she returned to school to complete her perinatal specialty so she could focus on labour and delivery. She’s also a spoken word poet and author and recently released and published her book titled, “Little Hugs: Encouragement for the Soul.” Raman hosts a podcast called, “Real, Real Quick“, where she takes on challenging topics. In addition, Raman hosts poetry nights in the Fraser Valley and her goal is to use self love to love others.

1202F2BF-13B8-44D4-8B9F-78A969794212

Tell us about your career journey?

In 2013, I went to Mexico to volunteer and really felt a calling to be a nurse. I always felt I would go towards the medical field but I didn’t know what exactly it would look like. I did consider it in high school, but it was something that I didn’t really live out. I returned to school and upgraded my classes. Once I finished, it took me time to get into the nursing program but it was well worth it! As for poetry, it kind of just came out of nowhere. It sprouted from a dark time. I just wrote to express my own self and it slowly it began to give me a voice and be a platform for others to have a safe space at poetry night. I am a strong believer in the Law of Attraction and I can definitely say that when you put yourself out towards what you want to do, it will find a way towards you. Put your heart into what you love and let it love you back. I had others in my life encourage me to follow my path. It literally took somebody to take me to an open mic to speak for the first time. Surround yourself by those that encourage you and be an encouragement for others! I was so nervous being on stage. I think the first step is always the most difficult.

What is the hardest challenge you have come up against in your personal/professional life?

Trying to find a balance between loving myself and loving others. Trying to find time for self-care and giving time to others, along with finding time to give love to the world when you feel hurt.

REAL QUICK PODCAST

What was your biggest lesson learned?

Follow your gut. Your gut is there for a reason. It is always trying to tell you something!!

IMG_6679

What advice would you give young South Asian women wanting to do what you do?

You are allowed to have a voice. You are allowed to express yourself and follow your heart. You’re not made to be a certain way. You are made to be amazing. Follow what you want to be and what you want to do and let it into your life. If you have a passion, follow it. Find those that will encourage you and support you. You are allowed to speak up and voice why you want what you want.

IMG_6758

What does “women empowering women” mean to you?

I think through our daily lives we can be examples for other women. We can live by our actions and use those to encourage others. If you are a loving individual, you will provide love to all those around you. Those are around you will see and receive the love and may want to live out that form of love. You can’t change everyone, but you can encourage others. You can be the living example to the beautiful souls around you. If somebody is telling you about their dreams, they are trusting you with a lot of personal desires and passions. Your words are empowering and you can Empower others. Put away any form of ego and encourage others. Find the light and good in the world. Surround yourself by those that encourage you.

If you could tell your teenage self something, what would it be?

Love yourself. Simply love yourself. You are worthy. You are capable. You are allowed to follow your heart. You are so much stronger than you will ever know.

C8FC7D0D-54B0-4353-9579-CC274C617074

What is your personal motto or mission statement?

To love with all my heart, my mind, my Soul, and Spirit.

Besides your work, what are you passionate about?

Gym, hiking, poetry, exploring, adventuring, travelling, any form of creative expression.

Where can one find you on your days off?

Off on an adventure.

E60A381C-C855-428B-9F25-87FAC361A3E0

How do you balance work, life, family?

I really don’t. Still trying to find that balance. I think having an agenda really helps. I like to write down my schedule. Sometimes I have to Circle a self-care day so I actually get time for myself!

Upcoming Projects & Events

  • Book launch with poetry night, November 19th at House of James in Abbotsford – with more poetry nights and project to come!
  • Raman’s revamping Real Quick Podcast! Tune in to listen on Apple podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, anchor.FM
  • Little hugs: Encouragement for Your Soul book is available in  paperback & hardcover via Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Friesen Press and the ebook is available via Indigo, Google Books, Kobo, ITunes, Kindle, Nook and Coming Soon to Indigo in paperback & hardcover.

Connect with Raman