Meet Yashi Gondwal | Pilot in training and model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yashi Gondwal and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yashi, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because it has always been my way of expressing myself and connecting with the world. From a young age, I was drawn to the arts, whether it was through fashion design, dancing, or modeling. Each of these outlets allowed me to communicate emotions, tell stories, and explore different aspects of my identity.

Growing up with a strong sense of discipline, thanks to my mother, who served in the army, I learned the importance of dedication and hard work. But I also realized that creativity was my true passion—it was where I found freedom and joy. The ability to create something beautiful, whether on the runway, in front of the camera, or on the dance floor, is incredibly fulfilling.

Moreover, I love how the arts allow me to inspire and connect with others. It’s about more than just self-expression; it’s about touching others’ lives, sparking emotions, and even challenging perspectives. This desire to make an impact through creativity is what ultimately led me to pursue this path.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work is a reflection of my passion for creativity and self-expression, whether it’s through modeling, dancing, or the artistic projects I undertake. What sets me apart is my dedication to authenticity and my ability to connect deeply with my audience. I’ve always believed that art should not only be beautiful but also meaningful, and I strive to bring that to every project I’m involved in.

One of the things I’m most proud of is winning Miss Asian Global Third Princess, which was a testament to my hard work and commitment to representing my culture and values. I’m also excited about my journey as a pilot-in-training, which adds a unique dimension to my personal and professional life. Balancing these diverse interests has allowed me to approach my work with a fresh perspective and a sense of adventure.

Getting to where I am today was not easy. There were moments of doubt, setbacks, and challenges, especially as I navigated different industries like fashion, modeling, and now aviation. But my mother, who served in the army, instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and resilience. Her teachings have been invaluable in helping me overcome obstacles and stay focused on my goals.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance and staying true to oneself. The creative world can be competitive and demanding, but I’ve found that staying authentic and being open to learning from every experience has been crucial to my growth.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s built on a foundation of passion, authenticity, and a desire to inspire others. Whether it’s through my work as a model, my journey in the aviation world, or my creative projects, I aim to connect with people on a deeper level and encourage them to pursue their own passions, no matter the challenges they might face.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Tampa Bay for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best of what the area has to offer. Here’s a little itinerary to give them an unforgettable time:

Day 1: Arrival & Sunset Views
– Morning: Start with a welcome breakfast at Oxford Exchange known for its beautiful ambiance and delicious brunch options.
– Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, exploring the shops and art installations.
– Evening: Head to Armature Works for dinner and drinks. This renovated industrial space has a variety of food vendors, and it’s a great spot to enjoy the sunset over the Hillsborough River.

Day 2: Beaches & Outdoor Adventures
– Morning: Spend the day at Clearwater Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Enjoy the white sand, clear waters, and maybe even a dolphin-watching tour.
– Afternoon: Grab lunch at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill right on the beach, famous for their grouper sandwiches.
– Evening:Watch the sunset at Pier 60, and catch some street performances and local artisans at the daily sunset festival.

Day 3: Culture & History
– Morning: Visit the Tampa Museum of Art to see some incredible contemporary and classical works.
– Afternoon: Head to Ybor City, Tampa’s historic Latin quarter, for a walking tour. Explore the cigar factories, and have a Cuban sandwich at Columbia Restaurant, the oldest restaurant in Florida.
– Evening: Experience some live music at The Ritz Ybor, which often hosts great shows and events.

Day 4: Adventure & Thrills
– Morning: Spend the day at Busch Gardens, where you can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, animal exhibits, and live entertainment.
– Evening:After an adrenaline-filled day, wind down with dinner at Ulele, a riverside restaurant serving native-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.

Day 5: Day Trip to St. Petersburg
– Morning: Take a short drive to St. Petersburg and start the day with a visit to the Dali Museum, home to an impressive collection of Salvador Dalí’s works.
– Afternoon: Have lunch at The Mill, known for its creative Southern cuisine, then explore the St. Pete Pier and its waterfront parks.
– Evening: Check out the vibrant nightlife on Central Avenue, with its mix of bars, breweries, and live music venues.

Day 6: Nature & Relaxation
– Morning: Visit Fort De Soto Park, where you can kayak, bike, or simply relax on the pristine beaches.
– Afternoon: Have a seafood lunch at Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish, a local institution.
– Evening:Return to Tampa for a low-key evening at Ciro’s Speakeasy and Supper Club for craft cocktails in a cozy, vintage setting.

Day 7: Farewell & Last-Minute Exploration
– Morning: Enjoy a final brunch at Daily Eats in South Tampa.
-Afternoon: Explore the shops and boutiques in Hyde Park Village, perfect for some last-minute shopping.
-Evening:Have a farewell dinner at Bern’s Steak House, a Tampa landmark, and end the night with dessert in their famous Harry Waugh Dessert Room.

In my view, Tampa Bay is full of exciting places, from its beautiful beaches and rich cultural history to its vibrant food and nightlife scene. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just want to relax by the water, there’s something here for everyone.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely, I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors, supporters, and advocates who have played a crucial role in my success. My journey wouldn’t have been possible without their guidance and encouragement.

Firstly, my mother, who served in the army, has been my greatest mentor and source of discipline. She taught me the importance of perseverance, hard work, and maintaining a strong work ethic, which has been the foundation of everything I do.

Additionally, my pageant sisters and friends have been amazing supporters. Their feedback, encouragement, and trust in my work have pushed me to continually improve and innovate. The community we’ve built together is a huge part of my success.

And lastly my mentors Dr. Francis Kong and Vincent Ma along with Emily Smith who have helped me push through and celebrate my success which made all the difference.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zkdlin_17

Image Credits
Miss Asian global, miss vizcaya swimwear/Miami swim week, Fort Lauderdale fashion week