Sunila Dang, born on December 6, 1967, in India, is a multifaceted professional and community leader from Diamond Bar, CA. An alumna of Central School, Shimla, and St. Bede’s College, she excelled academically and was recognized as Miss St. Bede’s in 1987. Sunila furthered her skills with courses at NIIT, New Delhi, and Mt. San Antonio College. She successfully ran a “Z Pizza” franchise and later transitioned to a certified tax professional at H&R Block. A passionate community servant, she actively participates in religious and cultural activities, notably contributing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sunila’s philosophy revolves around honesty, persistence, and adaptability, valuing success by personal satisfaction and growth.
Q&A with Sunila Dang
After your extensive academic and professional experiences, what advice would you give to young people starting their career journey?
Sunila Dang: The best advice I can offer is to remain adaptable and open to learning new skills. The world is constantly changing, and being able to adapt is crucial. Also, don’t be afraid to start small and dream big. Persistence and hard work, combined with a clear vision, are key to success.
How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your commitment to community service?
Sunila Dang: Balancing professional and community responsibilities requires effective time management and prioritizing. I make a conscious effort to allocate time to my community work, as it’s something that brings me immense satisfaction. I believe when you’re passionate about something, you naturally find ways to integrate it into your life.
Can you tell us more about how your cultural background has influenced your career and community work?
Sunila Dang: My Indian heritage plays a significant role in my life. The values of community service, resilience, and adaptability, deeply ingrained in my culture, have shaped my approach to both my career and community work. I try to bring these values into everything I do, whether it’s in business or in serving my community.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
Sunila Dang: One major challenge was transitioning from running a pizza franchise to becoming a tax professional. It required a complete shift in my skill set and approach. I overcame this by being open to learning and not being afraid to start from scratch in a new field.
What role do you think technology will play in future community service and cultural activities?
Sunila Dang: Technology is a powerful tool that can enhance the reach and impact of community service and cultural activities. It can help in organizing events more efficiently, spreading awareness, and even in virtual participation, making these activities more accessible to a wider audience.
How do you maintain your passion and motivation in both your career and community service activities?
Sunila Dang: My passion is fueled by the joy and satisfaction I derive from making a positive impact, whether it’s in my professional role or through community service. I constantly remind myself of the bigger picture and the difference I am making. Setting small, achievable goals and celebrating those victories keeps my motivation high.
In your opinion, what is the most significant contribution that cultural activities bring to a community?
Sunila Dang: Cultural activities play a vital role in strengthening community bonds, promoting diversity, and preserving heritage. They provide a platform for people to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other, which is invaluable for creating a cohesive and inclusive community.
What does the future hold for you? Any new projects or goals?
A: Sunila Dang: I am always looking for new ways to contribute to my community and grow professionally. I plan to continue my work with the various temples and the American Hindu Federation, and professionally, I am keen on further enhancing my skills in financial consulting. Additionally, I’m exploring ways to integrate technology into my community work to broaden its impact.
Finally, what does success look like to you?
Sunila Dang: Success is not just about achieving goals but also about the journey towards these achievements, including the ability to adapt, persist, and overcome challenges. I believe in setting clear objectives, seeking appropriate guidance, and maintaining faith in oneself. Overcoming fears and self-doubt is also a significant aspect of my view on success. Essentially, I think success is a blend of hard work, dedication, and the contentment derived from both personal and professional accomplishments.
Key Takeaways
- Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: Sunila Dang emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in both professional and personal growth. Her diverse career, transitioning from running a pizza franchise to becoming a tax professional, highlights her ability to adapt and thrive in different environments.
- Community Involvement and Cultural Values: Sunila places great importance on community service and cultural engagement. Her active participation in various religious and cultural activities, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores her commitment to serving and uplifting her community.
- Personal Definition of Success: Sunila’s perspective on success is deeply rooted in personal satisfaction and growth. She believes that success is not just about achieving goals but also about the journey and effort put into reaching those goals. Her approach to measuring success is based on honesty, persistence, and the ability to overcome personal fears and doubts.