Shereen's roots go deep

So said the talented and charming Miss India TT Sherene Sadia, 21, of San Francique Road.

At her Penal home Sherene spoke about her parents Jenny and Cecil Sadia, both of whom try to instill proper values in their children. Sherene has an elder sister Sasha, who encourages her to pursue her dreams and continue to be religious.

Her grandfather, Soogoon, reminds her that East Indian culture is something to be very proud of. “While I was growing up, I was exposed to various religions and different cultural backgrounds but I have never forgotten my East Indian heritage. I attended a Presbyterian primary school and then graduated to an Anglican Secondary, where keeping my roots was not very difficult since we live in a multi-cultural society where all religions are accepted,” she said smiling.

With her paternal grandmother being a devoted Muslim, she was introduced to the Muslim faith but never thought about giving up her Hindu and East Indian traditions. The reason for this being, that she appreciates the immense sacrifices and the positive contributions that her forefathers made in her life. This, she says gave her the strength to progress to where she is today. She is a confident, assertive, fun-loving and independent young woman.

The celebration of Indian Arrival Day has shown her the struggles and tribulations that her ancestors faced but eventually overcame, especially the female ancestors.

“It is equally as important to trace how East Indian women have progressed because they have made a drastic change since the time of our ancestors until now. Women are no longer considered to be only housewives and mothers, but are now seen as businesswomen, doctors and even as high ranking officials within the government.”

Working persistently contributes to conquering obstacles of tremendous magnitude, she added.

She noted that her ancestors are an integral part of today’s society since they lived their lives in a way that all people should emulate. During their time of the ancestors, secular things did not concern them as they were more interested in the spiritual way of life, which is slipping away from this generation. However, Sherene pledges to hold on to the teachings. She encourages the youths to continue to trace their roots and hold on to their culture and in so doing they will develop themselves as well-rounded individuals.

This young woman is of the firm belief that society needs people with a positive attitude towards life. She is convinced that today’s children need more affection and guidance and need to be reminded of their values.

“By teaching them about their history and their ancestors, we can reach this status since our forefathers have left us with a lot of beliefs and traditions, some of which we enjoy thoroughly and some we use every day. I recognise their numerous remarkable customs that have positively impacted my past, present and because of my upbringing, this continues to be a part of my undying tradition,” she said. Just say ‘‘music’’ and her face lights up as the tassa drumming comes her mind. She loves to listen to Bollywood songs as well. She finds herself dancing to these songs while she works.

She is also a lead actress in the drama production, ‘Paisa - It’s All About the Money. She is one of the lucky few who will get a song named after her. Presently the award winning composer Ramdeen “Falko” Maharaj is composing a song about the character of ‘‘Judy’’ that Sherene is playing in this production.

“I am enjoying my life to the fullest. Working as an accountant and doing drama and modelling,” she said.

Sherene will be giving up her crown of Miss India TT at the Centre of Excellence, tomorrow when the 2006 pageant will be held. However, it will not be the end of pageants for her. She will be participating in the queen category of this year’s Prime Minister’s Best Village competition and will represent the Princes Town Theatre Workshop.