Ankita Jain
Editor
As I write this, holding the pages of this issue the one you now hold in your hands — I am filled with gratitude and awe. Gratitude for the incredible people who have guided me, for the talented cohort I am privileged to lead, and for the opportunity to steward a brand whose mission has always been larger than any one person. Awe at the journey that has brought me here, from a senior reporter in 2018 to assistant editor, and now editor of WOW Magazine.
I must begin with the person without whom this path would have been unimaginable: Charu Chadha, our former editor and my guiding star. People often say women pull each other down, but my experience has been the opposite. Charu’s unwavering faith in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself, has been a gift I will forever treasure. Her guidance has been my anchor, her mentorship a compass, and her belief a constant reminder that dreams can transform into reality when nurtured with care. And even now, as I take the driver’s seat, steering WOW into its future, Charu is still there, quietly guiding me from the back seat, her wisdom present in every decision, her voice a gentle nudge when I need it most.
I am also deeply thankful to WOW’s Board of Directors for trusting me with this responsibility, and to my extraordinary team, whose hard work, creativity, and dedication make every page we produce possible. This role is not a solo endeavour. It is an expedition, one that requires collaboration, perseverance, and a shared vision. The pages before you are a testament to that collective spirit a fusion of talent, passion, and purpose.
It is in this spirit of collaboration and discovery that we bring you this issue, which explores pageantry in Nepal beyond the glamour, the glitz, and the spotlight. Here, we delve into stories of ambition, resilience, and transformation, highlighting journeys that inspire and redefine success. In these times when people have shifted to digital spaces and traditional magazines are struggling to survive, there is a beauty that a magazine in hand carries. Print has its own charm, a permanence and intimacy that no screen can replicate. Preparing these pages has reminded me that meaningful work requires patience, attention, and a shared sense of purpose the very principles that guide me as I step into this role.
Being appointed editor has come with its share of expectations. I have heard countless times, “Can’t wait to see what you do at WOW.” While I am touched by the warmth and optimism, I know that building something meaningful cannot be rushed. Excellence is iterative. It demands courage, collaboration, and thoughtfulness at every step. And it is only through the support of mentors, colleagues, and readers like you that we can reach those heights together.
So, on behalf of my mentors and my team, I recommit to WOW’s mission: to platform Nepali talent on the global stage, to honour the magazine’s legacy while crafting its future, and to create work that inspires, delights, and resonates. Thank you for believing in our vision, for holding us to a higher standard, and for accompanying us on this journey.
Together, we will continue to elevate stories, celebrate talent, and bring a little more beauty, insight, and meaning into the world.
