Kiwi-Indian mum who proved dreams have no limits

Born in Jammu & Kashmir and raised in Chandigarh, Anjali Balwal’s journey from the corridors of DAV College to the global stage of Mrs India Worldwide 2025 is a story of self-belief. Today, she stands as 1st Runner-Up for the Australia/New Zealand zone and winner of the subtitle Mrs Iconic Eyes, representing New Zealand in an international arena while balancing motherhood and professional aspirations.

Anjali’s move to New Zealand was driven by both opportunity and admiration for the country’s safety and beauty. “It’s beautiful and one of the safest countries,” she says. Completing her MBA at the University of Canterbury, she initially worked as a Business Manager before venturing into entrepreneurship.

Her most prominent venture, The Wine Chambers, a fine-dining restaurant on Auckland’s Shortland Street, became a hub for high-profile guests, including former Prime Minister Helen Clark and former PM Jacinda Ardern. “It was quite challenging initially, but I truly loved every part of it. I was truly blessed—not many people get this chance. I love interacting with people and hospitality,” Anjali says.

However, like many Kiwi-Indian business owners, Anjali faced the harsh realities of the COVID-19 pandemic. Forced to close her business, she says, “It did hit me hard. That was the lowest phase of my life. My self-esteem and confidence were low at that time.”

It was during a visit to India that a friend encouraged her to participate in Mrs India Worldwide, a prestigious global pageant in its 14th year. Coming from a traditional Rajput family, Anjali initially hesitated but soon committed fully. 

“I put all of myself into it,” she notes.

Selected from thousands of applicants, she trained in Dubai under renowned mentors Lubna Adam and Kavita Kamble. The experience, she says, was transformative. “Meeting all these beautiful women who had already achieved so much in their life. I truly enjoyed the experience. It was like I was living my college life,” Anjali reflects.

Her efforts culminated in representing New Zealand and being crowned 1st Runner-Up for the Australia/NZ zone at the pageant held in Dubai from June 15–22, 2025. She also won the subtitle Mrs Iconic Eyes, recognised for her grace, poise, and stage presence. “I am thankful for that, but we all have some special features, beautiful hearts, and for that, I would just thank my grandfather. I got his genes. Pure heart and intentions make you beautiful. These are all outer features,” she explains.

Beyond the glamour, Anjali’s journey has a deeper message. “After being a wife and a mother, we have so much social pressure, with people judging you even when you take some time for yourself. But we need to look after ourselves, our cup must be full for us to fill other cups,” she says, emphasising the importance of self-confidence and individuality.

A proud mother of an eight-year-old son, Anjali continues to prioritise family while embracing opportunities on the global stage. “My family,my son,is always my priority. My husband has been an amazing support throughout my journey. Balancing things isn’t hard if you love what you’re doing and have a good support system around,” she adds.

Looking ahead, Anjali is involved in judging Mrs India NZ in Hamilton and another international pageant in Dubai, along with brand ambassador roles for Caya Clinic and other projects. On representing New Zealand globally, she says, “This land has given me so much. I am looking forward to representing NZ globally and telling the world about this country.”

Anjali Balwal’s story is an evidence to reinvention, and the power of pursuing dreams at any stage of life. “It’s never late. Once you realise, you should start your journey and fulfil all your dreams. As long as you have that in you, nothing can stop you,” she says, embodying a message she hopes will inspire women everywhere to rediscover themselves and their ambitions.