Sushmita Sen's empowering message to youth — 'Don't listen to anybody, it's your life'
Sushmita Sen
delivered a deeply personal and empowering message to a packed hall of students.
Young people were motivated by the former Miss Universe to defy social expectations and embrace their individuality.
Her words connected with Gen Z audience, many of whom commended her honesty and emotional intelligence by posting snippets and quotes from the event across social media.
A panel of powerhouses: Vidya Balan and Smriti Irani join in
Sushmita said, 'You will be surrounded by people who will be calling you beautiful left, right, and centre, and it has nothing to do with physicality.
But if physically something makes you feel better about yourself, then by all means go ahead with it and don't listen to anybody. It's your life, your identity; be accepting of yourself.' She added, 'Be accepting of yourself so that you are not judging of another.' In I.I.M.U.N.
Role Model Series
Joining Sen on stage were actress Vidya Balan and former Union Cabinet Minister Smriti Irani, both of whom shared their own insights on identity, equality, and emotional resilience.
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Balan emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence saying, 'I really think that we were all created equal. Yes, some of us are more of a certain thing and less of a certain thing. Men have more physical strength, while women have greater EQ.
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She also spoke about connecting with students through Gen Z lingo and humor, 'There were kids from different age groups, and I truly had a great time interacting with them. The atmosphere was so joyful.'
Irani, known for her transition from television to politics, encouraged students to lead with purpose and responsibility, though her remarks were more policy-driven and focused on civic engagement.
A platform for global citizenship
Moderated by I. I. M. U. N. founder Rishabh Shah, the event was meant to encourage substantive interaction between young people and role models from all sectors. Reaching more than three million kids each year, the group hopes to create "glocal citizens" —people who act locally but think globally.
Previously highlighting individuals such PV Naik, PT Usha, and Barkha Dutt, the Role Model Series remains a major pillar of youth leadership development in India.
Sushmita Sen's message was a call to action not only inspiring. Her statements helped young people to realize that self-worth is a lifelong foundation in a society of edited perfection and constant comparison rather than a fad. And, in her own words: "Don't listen to anyone. It's your life. "
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