Every story has the potential to become a book

Working with Payal Patnaik on this book has been a truly beautiful and deeply meaningful experience.

Payal is not merely an editor or an author bringing together a collection of stories. She is someone who listens beyond words. With immense patience, sensitivity and genuine curiosity, she reached into the heart of every woman's journey and encouraged each of us to uncover our deepest truth.

She created a safe space for us to speak not only about our victories, but also about our secrets, struggles, downfalls, vulnerabilities and the moments that shaped who we are today. She never rushed the process. Every chapter went through multiple rounds of thoughtful editing, reflecting her extraordinary diligence, meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to doing justice to every woman's voice.

What touched me most was how personally invested she was in every story. She spoke to each contributor, understood the emotions beneath the experiences and gently helped bring out the truth we may not have known how to express ourselves.

Payal has not simply compiled a book. She has held space for women to reclaim their stories, honour their journeys and find power in everything they have survived and become.

I feel deeply grateful and honoured to have my chapter included in this book. Thank you, Payal, for treating every story with such care, integrity and heart. This book carries the soul of every woman within it, and your presence can be felt on every page.