From Runways to Real Change: The Journey of Priya Sigdel
From the dazzling lights of the pageant stage to the quiet power of grassroots change, Priya Sigdel’s journey is a testament to the strength of purpose, personality, and positivity. As the co-founder of HattiHatti, a social enterprise focused on upcycling and women empowerment, and former Miss Nepal Earth 2018, she has never viewed her platform as just a crown, it has always been a megaphone for change.
Activism Before Applause
While many use beauty pageants as a stepping stone into fame or new career paths, for Priya, it was quite the opposite. Her path into pageantry was paved by her commitment to social activism. Her work in social entrepreneurship needed a larger stage, and she recognized that pageantry could give her causes the visibility and credibility they deserved. Her goal was simple yet powerful; amplify grassroots voices and turn personal passion into public impact.

Fashion with a Purpose
When it comes to her style, Priya blends fashion with intention. Her favorite outfit? An oversized upcycled shirt from HattiHatti, paired with a headband, scrunchies, and a scarf. These pieces are more than just wardrobe staples, they are symbols of sustainability, creativity and comfort. She views them as daily reminders of the values she holds close, letting her clothes speak for the causes she supports.
A Solo Seat at the Table
Given the chance to share dinner with anyone in the world, Priya chooses herself. It’s not about ego it is about peace. Despite her extroverted nature, she finds deep joy in solitude. She’s traveled solo to multiple countries, watched movies alone, and fully embraced quiet moments of reflection. For Priya, these experiences allow her to be fully present, to listen inwardly, and to enjoy her own company without the need to perform or please.
Pasta, with a Side of Personality
Asked to describe herself using a food, Priya picks pasta which is versatile, colorful and always changing. Just like the dish, her personality comes in many forms. Whether connecting with children, elders, or the most reserved individuals, she adapts with ease, seasoning each interaction with humor, warmth, and the occasional cringe-worthy pun. She doesn’t take herself too seriously, and that’s what makes her presence so inviting.

Awkward, Honest, and Endearingly Real
Priya isn’t afraid to admit that life can get a little clumsy. “I attract embarrassing moments like a magnet,” she jokes. From random slips to blurting out the worst possible thing in front of a crush, her unfiltered expressions and tendency to overshare are just part of her charm. “I’ll tell my life story to people who probably don’t even care and then cringe about it later,” she laughs. Her ability to embrace these moments with humor and humility only makes her more relatable.
A Light That Radiates Change
Priya Sigdel is not just a pageant titleholder or a social entrepreneur, she is a force of nature. Her unwavering optimism, candid humor, and deep commitment to activism make her a refreshing voice in a world that often takes itself too seriously. Whether she’s leading a social cause, cracking a joke, or slipping on a sidewalk, she brings light, laughter, and lasting impact wherever she goes.
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