Member Spotlight
We believe the most powerful thing we can do is show up as ourselves — and in doing so, make space for others to do the same. In this member interview, we hear from Pankhuri, who joined our Circle after moving from India to Scotland and navigating a major life and career transition. Her story is one of self-discovery, resilience, and deep care for people and community. We’re so glad she said yes to sharing a little of her world with us.
“Circles”
Q1: Tell us a little about yourself and what is important to you!
My name is Pankhuri. I moved to Glasgow from India in September 2022 and completed an MSc in Psychology from Glasgow University. Since then, I have fallen in love with Scotland and its people and have not wished to live elsewhere. This was a career shift as I did Economics and Finance, and worked in financial companies in India. Something changed within, and as I learnt more about myself, I learnt yoga, lots of it and went to therapy. I felt stronger, started teaching yoga while working a corporate job, and found my true path. What’s important to me is people, kindness, love and support. All people, including myself, my family, friends, and lovely warm strangers.
Q2: Is there something you're working on at the moment?
I am working on starting my small project on teaching yoga in Scotland, helping people come closer to themselves through yoga and Ayurvedic lifestyle (Ayurveda translates into ‘knowledge of life’ and it comes from ancient Indian scriptures). I also aspire to pursue a diploma course in Yoga Therapy, which works with specific physical and mental health conditions. (I can only start this course if I can extend my stay.)
Q3: What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Continuing my last response, my partner and I had been discussing applying for a partner visa, so I did not focus on other options for my visa for the last year. Some issues occurred between us, and I had to walk away from the relationship. So the challenge lately was grieving the beautiful relationship we had, and trying to make my wish of building a life in Scotland a reality by exploring other options. I would say I have overcome the grief with the help and support of the wonderful people I’m surrounded with, including my family and friends living miles away, and many people in Scotland (they know who they are, it’s a long list, haha). I am yet to overcome the visa challenge, but I am hopeful, and I feel strong enough to work through this. In this process, just knowing that I am loved and supported gives me all the strength I need.
Q4: Name one thing that brings you joy
I’m torn between my yoga practice and helping people. It’s a difficult choice to make.
Q5: Why do you choose to be a part of this space and community?
Are you kidding? All my responses above reflect how much I value people and kindness; I am all about that, and this community has just reflected this most simply. Eleanor, Karen, Noel, Heather, and Susan have been so warm and loving, without even knowing me. This is the power of this space! I'm so glad I found it, or it found me!
We’re so grateful to Pankhuri for sharing her story with us — a story of courage, self-discovery, and deep connection to people and place. Her journey reminds us of the quiet strength it takes to start again, follow what feels true, and keep going even when the way forward is uncertain.
Join us on Circle!
Every month, we welcome new members and we’d love to see you there too. It doesn’t cost a thing but if community is important to you, then we think you just might like it. Join us here.
