Shreya Patel : In a world that often celebrates fame and fortune, Shreya Patel stands as a beacon of altruism and purpose. This remarkable individual has seamlessly transitioned from a successful modeling and acting career to become a filmmaker, activist, and mental health advocate, leaving an indelible mark on society.
A Journey of Empowerment
Shreya Patel’s path to becoming a powerful advocate for change is rooted in her personal experiences. She survived her own traumatic ordeals, and instead of succumbing to them, she channeled her resilience into a relentless commitment to make the world a better place. Her journey spans continents, as she divides her time between India and Canada, two worlds that have witnessed her unwavering dedication to social work.
Shreya Patel Directing During the Pandemic
When the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Shreya Patel rose to the occasion. She directed an impactful documentary titled “Unity – #LOVESPREADS Faster Than A Virus.” This documentary transcended borders, bringing together over 100 cast members from 66 countries and amassing over 1 million views.
It was a testament to the indomitable human spirit and an exploration of the disparities between industrialized and developing nations.
Shreya’s message was clear: in times of uncertainty, love and unity prevail. Her collaboration with global Forbes U30 listers’ community and Global Shapers Hub further amplified her message, making her a beacon of hope. Notably, One Young World Organization also promoted her documentary, spreading her message even further.
Following the success of “Unity,” Shreya Patel released a musical version titled “Freedom Dance.” This music video, co-directed by Shreya, went viral worldwide, garnering over 12 million views on YouTube. It featured models, actors, influencers, and celebrities expressing their inner freedom during lockdown, transcending geographical boundaries.
Modeling & Acting
Shreya Patel’s modeling and acting career has taken her to runways across Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Shreya Patel graced the pages of Vogue India and featured in notable fashion events like Grazia India Awards. Her versatility shines through in print ads and commercials, including brands like McDonald’s, Much Music Canada, and Vodafone India.
Not content with conquering the fashion world, Shreya embarked on a journey into journalism as a reporter for Asian Television Network. She interviewed prominent figures and covered significant events, showcasing her diverse talents.
In the realm of acting, Shreya Patel has delivered powerful performances in short films, theatre productions, and notable TV shows like Hulu’s “Handmaid’s Tale” and FX’s “Mrs. America.” Her passion for narrative and improv continues to drive her, with performances across Toronto’s various theaters.
Community Engagement
Shreya’s commitment to community service has grown exponentially over the years. She founded “reVnt – Discover You,” an initiative dedicated to empowering youth who have survived trauma through art. Her workshops address critical issues like bullying, body image, and mental health, fostering confidence and awareness among participants.
Even during high school, Shreya’s activism was evident as she exceeded the required volunteer hours, engaging in charity ventures. Her efforts culminated in her being crowned Miss Teen Sarnia, where she used her platform to raise funds for organizations such as Cancer Awareness, Terry Fox, and Make A Wish Foundation.
Post-university, Shreya’s work extended to India, where she collaborated with international talent agencies, organized fashion shows, and continued her humanitarian efforts, including working with the Mother Teresa Orphanage.
Leveraging Film To Build Awareness of Human Trafficking
Shreya’s commitment to giving voice to the voiceless led her to create impactful documentaries. In 2015, she completed a Post-Grad degree in Documentary and Film, producing her first documentary, “Girl Up.” This powerful film shed light on domestic human trafficking in Canada, a subject often hidden from public view. Her documentary received recognition from Ontario MPP Laurie Scott and was the first of its kind in Canada.
Expanding her documentary into a 50-minute feature, Shreya Patel interviewed key figures like MPP Laurie Scott and journalist Tamara Cherry, furthering the conversation around human trafficking. She organized community viewings across Canada, spreading awareness among vulnerable demographics.
The Toronto International Film Festival partnered with Shreya to showcase “Girl Up” at the Civic Action Summit, initiating conversations on combatting human trafficking. Shreya’s work in this area has garnered attention from national security, elected officials, business executives, and community advocates.
Supporting Mental Health
Shreya’s advocacy extends to mental health, a topic often considered taboo, especially within South Asian communities. She became a face of Bell Let’s Talk, championing mental health awareness, and received recognition from Global Affairs Canada.
Shreya’s personal struggle with severe anxiety drove her to share her story openly, challenging societal norms. She sat on panels, collaborated with organizations, and trained as a Kid’s Help Line Phone Text Responder, providing support to child victims.
Her advocacy efforts culminated in representing her riding of University-Rosedale at the Under 35 Women’s Forum at the Assembly of Ontario, where she raised awareness about human trafficking among Members of Parliament.
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