Sailes Shrestha, born in the serene Ramechhap District of Nepal, followed the American dream to New York City in 2010. Known by his real name, Shailendra Shrestha, he is a visionary entrepreneur and the driving force behind MISS NEPAL NORTH AMERICA, an esteemed international beauty pageant. As CEO of Dreams Universal LLC, Sailes’s exceptional leadership and passion for empowering women have created a remarkable platform that celebrates beauty, talent, and cultural diversity. His commitment to promoting Nepali culture and providing aspiring beauty queens with opportunities has garnered widespread recognition within the pageant industry, fostering cultural exchange on an international scale and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many.
- Let’s start with your journey from Nepal to the USA. What motivated you to move to New York City and pursue the American dream in 2010?
Thank you for having me! Moving to New York City was a significant turning point in my life. The American dream has always been an aspiration for many, including myself. I saw New York City as a hub of opportunities, diversity, and a place where dreams could become a reality. I wanted to explore new horizons, grow personally and professionally, and contribute to society in a meaningful way. So, in 2010, I made the decision to embark on this journey and see where it would take me.
- How was your initial experience in New York City, and what were the challenges you faced during your early days of settling in a foreign land?
The initial experience in New York City was both exhilarating and daunting. The fast-paced lifestyle, the cultural diversity, and the vibrant energy were truly captivating. However, as with any significant change, there were challenges to overcome. Language barriers and cultural adjustments were some of the early hurdles I faced. Building a support network and finding stable employment were also crucial aspects of settling in a foreign land. Yet, I remained determined and resilient, seeking guidance from fellow immigrants and local communities. Their support, along with my own determination, helped me navigate through those challenging times and paved the way for a more fulfilling life in the USA.
- It’s impressive how you’ve become a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of MISS NEPAL NORTH AMERICA. Could you tell us more about what inspired you to create this prestigious international beauty pageant?
Absolutely! As a proud Nepali, I’ve always been passionate about promoting and preserving our rich culture on a global platform. I wanted to create a space where young Nepali women living in North America could showcase their talents, intelligence, and cultural heritage. Miss Nepal North America was born out of the idea of providing aspiring beauty queens with a platform to not only celebrate beauty but also to emphasize the importance of cultural diversity and empowerment.
- That’s commendable! Your commitment to empowering women and promoting Nepali culture is truly inspiring. How has your role as CEO of Dreams Universal LLC helped you in achieving these goals through Miss Nepal North America?
As the CEO of Dreams Universal LLC, I have been able to provide the necessary resources, guidance, and support to make Miss Nepal North America a reality. Through Dreams Universal LLC, we’ve been able to organize and host the pageant, reaching a wider audience and attracting talented contestants from all over North America. Additionally, the company’s structure allows us to focus on empowering women by offering them opportunities to grow, succeed, and become role models within their communities.
- It’s evident that you’ve made a significant impact with Miss Nepal North America. Could you share some of the most rewarding experiences or moments you’ve had while running this beauty pageant?
One of the most rewarding experiences for me is witnessing the transformation of the contestants throughout the pageant journey. Seeing them gain confidence, develop their skills, and embrace their cultural identities is incredibly gratifying. Moreover, the connections and friendships that blossom among the contestants and their families during the event are heartwarming. It’s fulfilling to know that through this platform, we are fostering a strong sense of community and cultural exchange among Nepali communities across North America.
- That sounds truly fulfilling. As we wrap up, what are your future plans and aspirations for Miss Nepal North America and Dreams Universal LLC?
Looking ahead, my vision is to continue expanding Miss Nepal North America’s reach and impact, making it an even more prominent platform for Nepali women in the USA and Canada. I want to see the pageant continue to grow and become an influential force in promoting cultural diversity and empowerment. Additionally, I plan to explore other avenues within Dreams Universal LLC to create more opportunities and initiatives that align with our mission of empowering individuals and embracing cultural exchange.
- Sailes, your dedication to empowering women and promoting cultural diversity is truly inspiring. Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share my story and aspirations. It was a pleasure to be a part of this interview. I’m grateful for the support, and I’m excited to continue making a positive impact with Miss Nepal North America and Dreams Universal LLC. Thank you again!
