“I’m a journalist, vegan advocate, and entrepreneur – but my journey hasn’t always been easy. Growing up in a multicultural household, I was fortunate to gain a broader perspective on life. My parents, both teachers, encouraged me to explore my passions and question everything.
I pursued my passion for storytelling through my education, earning a degree in Mass Communication and Journalism. As a journalist, I’ve had the privilege of working with top media houses in Telugu and other languages, traveling to the remotest of villages across India and immersing myself in diverse cultures and stories. But in 2014, I felt the urge to challenge myself further and moved to the USA to work as a programming manager at a renowned radio station. For nearly eight years, I honed my skills in media management and programming, working with a talented team to create engaging content for our listeners.
In 2021, I returned to India with a newfound sense of purpose. I summited Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, as a testament to my commitment to pushing beyond my limits. As the first vegan woman from India to achieve this feat, I aimed to inspire others to embrace compassion and plant-based living.
Today, I run Simi’s World Vegan Cafe in Hyderabad, where I share my passion for veganism and community service. I volunteer with NGOs focused on animal welfare and community development, and I continue to write and produce shows as a freelance journalist, using my voice to drive positive change.”
- Sarada Kuragayala, Journalist, Entrepreneur and Mountaineer