An Inspired Chat with Neetu Rishi of Dallas, Texas

We recently had the chance to connect with Neetu Rishi and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Neetu, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I believe many people are silently struggling with self-doubt and the fear of not being enough. In a world that constantly measures success by external achievements, social media highlights, or comparison with others, it’s easy to feel like we’re falling short even when on the outside it looks like we’re thriving. Most never say it out loud because vulnerability is often mistaken for weakness, but acknowledging it is the first step toward growth and confidence. I see it all the time in the creative and entrepreneurial world, people holding themselves back from taking risks, sharing their ideas, or stepping into their true potential because of that quiet inner voice. As the CEO and Founder of Flyshowcase, my goal has been to empower individuals by giving them a platform to shine and gain confidence. Our Company’s mission is to uplift aspiring models and designers for their unique talents. We see firsthand how providing visibility, mentorship, and support can help people overcome their inner fears and step boldly into their potential, turning self-doubt into self-belief.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Neetu Rishi, founder and CEO of Flyshowcase, a platform created to elevate aspiring models and designers by providing them with the visibility, mentorship, and experience they need to thrive in the fashion industry. Flyshowcase is not just about runway shows; it’s about creating an ecosystem where talent is recognized, nurtured, and celebrated. What makes our platform unique is the way we combine professional exposure with personal growth we guide participants on building confidence, presenting themselves, networking effectively, and understanding the business side of fashion, all while encouraging their individuality and creativity.

My journey to founding Flyshowcase stems from my passion for helping people unlock their potential. I’ve seen so many talented individuals with incredible ideas and style, yet lacking opportunities or the right guidance to shine. Through Flyshowcase, we aim to bridge that gap, giving them a stage to showcase their talent while also equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed. Right now, we’re expanding to International shows and creating innovative experiences that go beyond just fashion shows immersive workshops, mentorship programs, and collaborations that empower our participants to not just walk the runway, but build lasting careers and leave a meaningful mark on the industry.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that truly shaped how I see the world happened when I participated in my very first pageant, even though I was just 5’1”. At that time, I was painfully aware of my height and worried about whether I would be taken seriously in a world that often celebrates taller contestants. But despite the self-doubt, I chose to step on that stage and give it my all. That experience was transformative it taught me that true confidence doesn’t come from meeting someone else’s standards, but from embracing who you are and showing up fully, even when the odds seem stacked against you and I’m proudly former Mrs. India Universe.

That lesson stayed with me and shaped my worldview: I realized that limitations are often self-imposed and that courage isn’t measured in inches, but in the willingness to try, risk, and stand out. It’s this perspective that inspired me to create Flyshowcase a platform where aspiring models and designers of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds can be seen, celebrated, and empowered to shine. I want every participant to feel the same way I did that day on the pageant stage: confident, capable, and unstoppable.

Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
My journey into mentorship actually began with my daughter. When she started high school, she was introverted and struggling with self-doubt. As a parent, I tried to guide her through programs and advice, but nothing seemed to help until I really listened to her and focused on her strengths instead of her perceived weaknesses. She loved writing, so I encouraged her to publish a book on Amazon, and she loved dancing, so we launched a YouTube channel together. Seeing her confidence grow as she explored her passions was transformative not just for her, but for me too.

That experience showed me the power of truly listening: when we pay attention to someone’s talents, interests, and inner voice, we can help them uncover confidence and purpose. Inspired by her transformation, I realized many people face similar struggles. That moment with my daughter reminded me that listening isn’t just about hearing words, it’s about recognizing potential, nurturing it, and giving it the space to grow. Flyshowcase is such a platform where we mentor individuals to overcome their limitations and achieve their highest potential.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
As the founder of Flyshowcase, I am committed to empowering aspiring national and international models and designers to discover their highest potential, build confidence, and showcase their unique talents no matter how long it takes. I believe that every creative individual deserves visibility, mentorship, and the chance to shine, and Flyshowcase is my way of providing that platform. From runway shows to workshops and mentorship programs, I am dedicated to creating opportunities that help participants grow personally and professionally, guiding them to step into their own power and achieve their dreams, regardless of the time or effort it takes to make that happen. By year 2035, we have a mission to impact and transform 25K lives.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I want to leave a legacy through Flyshowcase where I hope people remember the impact I had on their journeys and that I led by example, showing that success comes from dedication, honesty, and empowering others along the way. More than my own achievements, I hope people remember me as someone who believed in the potential of others and dedicated her life to helping them shine always with hard work, integrity, and a genuine desire to uplift those around me. I want the story told to be about how I created opportunities, mentored aspiring talent, and inspired confidence. It is not just about making pageant queens and models, it is about creating role models.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Photographers
Thomas Almholt
Arun Sharma
Maria Oliveri
Biswamber Pal

Designers
Geminihuesbyneha goel
Dimple Kapoor
Shoplabeln

HMUA
Riki Patel
Archana Vyas

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