Colour has a powerful ability in our lives. It can remove darkness, unite communities and serve a physiological and emotional change that may be needed in a specific moment. How do I know? I’m not just a marketing manager for Cisco’s EMEAR region, but I am also a self-confessed colour and style enthusiast. And I’m on a mission to unleash the power of colour to others!
Ever since I can remember, I’ve always been drawn to colours – from the vibrant colours of my Indian culture that I live and breathe, to the rainbow of colours that I choose to wear. Coupled with a passion for style and fashion, this led me to train and qualify in my own time, as a Personal Stylist trained in Colour Analysis. I’m fortunate to have received such warm encouragement and support from my Cisco leadership and peers to pursue my passion!
Now, I can advise on what someone’s ‘WOW’ colours might be – which would be the colours that compliment and harmonise a person’s skin tone, give a healthy glow and reflect their personality outwardly. I also understand how colour can positively contribute to someone’s mental and physical wellbeing.
The latter has never been more relevant.
At a time where we have all struggled with our overall wellbeing, I decided to help in a way I knew would put my strengths forward – by hosting workshops I call ‘Connect with Colour’. These workshops help my Cisco family, friends and community understand how they can make conscious colour choices in their daily lives to positively impact how they feel.
For example, the colour green is known for its ability to harmonise our mind, body and emotions – that’s why we feel calm and refreshed when we are surrounded by greenery and nature! Green also has the power to increase productivity by up to 15%. With that in mind, it may be beneficial to introduce plants into your home or office to positively contribute to your working day.
We have just entered a new year, and you may be thinking about embarking on a new project or hobby. The colour red will help! Either in your surroundings or in what you wear, red is the most stimulating colour and will help provide a burst of energy to motivate you to kickstart something new!
Cisco not only supports the passions of their employees, but truly encourages us to grow through our interests too. I was empowered by my EMEAR Marketing and Distribution Leadership team to organise a health and well-being session with Jessie Pavelka, an internationally recognized fitness coach, for our valued distributors and partners. In this session, Jessie and I discussed the power of colour and how you can use colour to positively contribute to your mental and physical well-being.
As a result of pursing my passions while working at Cisco, I’ve also been inspired to give back and have been able to help bring colour to the lives that need it most. I’m currently raising funds through my Connect With Colour Workshops for a charity close to my heart: Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, which helps children with life limiting diseases.
All this work recently culminated in me qualifying as a Global Finalist for a Cisco Give Back award – the Growth Marketing Global Awards. This is a humbling recognition and shows how Cisco not only encourages us to pursue our passions and give back – but that we are supported and recognized for our efforts too! As we begin our new year, I’m excited to continue to help others through my passions while connecting them through the magic of colour.
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Thank you for sharing Alpa! This is really cool
Thank you Milly!
LOVE THIS! Waiting for another workshop to learn more from you! So inspiring to read, not only just the colour pyscology but pursuing your passions outside of our successful marketing career at Cisco! Go you Alpa!
Thanks so much Chloe- I am planning some more workshops and will share info soon!?
Loved your story! Thanks!
Thank you for taking the time to read it Tana and I’m really happy you enjoyed it!?
Such an inspirational read, Alpa! Without knowing much about the topic of colour psychology, I have felt the power of colours while choosing to wear red or pink – always boosting my mood and confidence. Keep on the journey you are on!
Thank you so much Eli! Yes red is energy boosting and conveys boldness and confidence! Pink is a very nurturing, compassionate colour – I describe wearing pink as giving yourself a big hug!?
Great article Alpa, love your work here!
Thank you Rebecca!
The power of color is often underplayed! Good to see Cisco encouraging your passion and thanks for spreading the cheer, Alpa! Keep it going
Absolutely Nikhilesh, it never ceases to amaze me!? Thank you for your wishes
Colours underpin the psychology of welbeing, a good feel factor, which can change through the rainbow of colours to manifest the inner dormant feelings and control the secretions of endorphins by our brain. You are on a quest to unlease the beauty of colours and enhnace the inner self confidence to understand who you truely can be.
This is so true! Colors do affect our moods. Love your article on how Cisco was able to connect you with your passion.
Thank you Prajakta- I’m happy you enjoyed it!
You are being of incredible service to all of us at Cisco. I can’t wait to have you join my team’s virtual day next week. You’ll be giving us the perfect start to the new year!
Thank you for inviting me Tejal – I’m so looking forward to spreading some colour magic with the team!
Great blog, very motivational thank you and best wishes for 2021
Thank you Shirley- wishing you a Happy Colourful 2021!
Wow.. I love how you are able to take your passion and apply it on the job. Are there any IST friendly sessions? Would love to attend one.
Thank you Sangeetha!? Yes I’ll be scheduling some sessions soon – please feel free to reach out via Linked In so we can connect and I can keep you informed on the next dates!
Very Interesting — And Uplifting. Certainly need Green and red in my everyday surroundings These colors pick me up around Christmas — why not all year long ? Thanks Winston McKenna
Absolutely Winston! Thanks for sharing – red and green is a great combination together. I’ll be sharing more about colour combinations and in which scenarios they may serve you best soon!