Pooja Handa, a beloved figure in Toronto’s broadcasting scene, known for her warmth and professionalism. With nearly two decades of experience in television, Pooja has become a familiar face, bringing news, entertainment, and community events to viewers’ homes each morning.
Early Life and Career Beginnings of Pooja Handa
Pooja’s journey in the spotlight began at a young age, fueled by her passion for performing. After being accepted into The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, she honed her skills before returning to Toronto to pursue broadcasting.
Armed with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Women’s Studies and a diploma in Broadcast Journalism, Pooja embarked on her career, starting as a Traffic Reporter and Entertainment Host for Global Morning News in Toronto.
Broadcasting Success and Community Engagement
Over the years, Pooja’s career flourished as she transitioned into roles as a News Anchor, Reporter, and TV Host. From covering politics to gracing the red carpet at prestigious events like the Toronto International Film Festival, Pooja showcased her versatility and dedication to storytelling.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Pooja Handa remained deeply committed to her community, actively supporting charities and mentoring young women in their career paths.
Championing Mental Health Awareness
Despite her success, Pooja Handa’s journey took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world grappled with uncertainty, Pooja found herself facing unfamiliar challenges with her mental health.
What began as relentless worrying and sleep disturbances soon evolved into a deeper exploration of anxiety and its impact on her life.
Navigating Mental Health Challenges
Seeking understanding and solutions, Pooja Handa delved into wellness techniques and resources. Reading books like “From Panic to Power” provided solace as she discovered shared experiences and coping strategies. Through introspection, Pooja recognized the importance of addressing disruptions caused by anxiety, including its effect on her confidence as a broadcaster.
Breaking Stigma and Fostering Support
As she navigated her mental health journey, Pooja Handa confronted societal stigmas and cultural attitudes that often discourage seeking help. Drawing from her own experiences growing up in an immigrant family, she emphasized the significance of prioritizing mental well-being and seeking support, despite societal expectations.
Advocacy and Continued Growth
Today, Pooja continues to advocate for mental health awareness and destigmatization, both in her personal life and professional platform. Through open conversations and sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to embrace vulnerability and prioritize self-care.
With gratitude for her support system and a commitment to fostering dialogue, Pooja Handa remains dedicated to creating a healthier and more compassionate society.
Expanding Horizons
Beyond her broadcasting career and mental health advocacy, Pooja’s interests and passions continue to evolve. She finds joy in exploring new recipes, traveling to new destinations, and cheering on her favorite sports teams at Raptors and Leafs games.
Pooja also enjoys connecting with her audience through appearances on programs like Breakfast Television Toronto, CityLine, and TSC, where she shares insights and experiences with viewers.
Family and Personal Life
At the center of Pooja’s world is her family. She shares her life with her husband Paul and their two children in Toronto, cherishing moments spent together amidst their busy schedules. Despite the demands of her career, Pooja makes time for family dinners, outings to sporting events, and creating lasting memories with her loved ones.
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