Subeksha Khadka is a recognised name in the Nepali media. Beauty queen-turned-VJ, Khadka has, in a short span of time, garnered a name for herself in the media industry as a versatile artist. The Post’s Marissa Taylor caught up with the charismatic VJ to talk about her journey from pageants to television

How did your journey as a TV presenter begin?

My journey in media began

when I participated in Miss Ecollege competition back in 2011. I was in the top five and had bagged two sub-titles as well; I think it was from then that I started gaining recognition. I had no plans as such to work as a VJ, but I did imagine hosting a TV show someday. Right after Miss Ecollege, I got a job offer from News24 Television. That’s how it all began, and since then there is no looking back.

What is the best thing about working on Television?

I think working as a TV presenter has really enhanced my personality. At first, I did not think I was someone who would enjoy seeing herself on TV, but I have to admit I have enjoyed every bit of it so far. There has not been a single moment during my entire career in which I have been bored or felt the work pressure.

Besides being a TV presenter, what else are you currently involved with?

Besides working as a TV presenter, I work as a freelancer emcee. I have recently started working for NYX Cosmetics Nepal as the brand manager, so that is what is keeping me busy these days. I am also coming up with a show of my own—as a producer—on Kantipur Gold; it will go on air in a few weeks.

What are the shows you are currently doing?

I am currently hosting a show titled Restronomy on Kantipur Gold: It is a show where we

select the best restaurants in Kathmandu and review it. Also, I host Fashion Capital. I recently finished its first season, and will be returning for a second season with myself as a producer.

Your most memorable moment as a TV presenter till date...

I used to run a show for ECS Media, where I would review gadgets and bikes. We shot at remote locations and had to do a lot of travelling; it used to be a lot of fun. I miss doing that show. I do have a lot of incredible memories from that show.

Any crazy fan moment you’ve encountered?

Well, no crazy fan moment as such but I have been getting daily emails from this anonymous someone. He sends messages all day! I haven’t replied to any of his messages, yet he keeps giving me his opinions on what I post on social networking sites and my outfits.

Which has been your personal favourite show to host?

Fashion Capital on Kantipur Gold, definitely. The concept was very new: We chose fresh models and gave them makeovers and helped them with their portfolio shoots. It was different from what I had been doing.

Any challenges that you have faced during your journey as a VJ?

There were a lot of challenges that came along the journey but everything worked as steps to build a better me. They have led me to where I am now. As of now, I am very excited about my venture as a producer.

Who are your favourite TV hosts?

Ellen DeGeneres and Larry King. I love them.

Any inspiration/role model?

My dad, my mum and my brother have always been great sources of inspiration. They have always been supportive of me, and are actually more excited about my projects than I am.

What are your future plans? Any plans to step into acting—TV or movies?

That’s a tough question. I believe that if I work towards making my present better then my future too will be good in itself. I don’t have any plans as such to get into acting but you never know!

Between all that you do, how do you make time for yourself?

It is tough to juggle, but at the end of the day everything feels worthwhile. Saturday is one day when I make sure that I stay home and allot time to myself. While, sometimes when a new project pops up, I have to be there ready to shoot no matter what.

A few words for aspiring VJs...

The media industry is becoming more competitive day by day. If you wish to start a career as a VJ, work hard and practice on your speaking skills (both in Nepali and English languages).

Always be ready to face the challenges that come your way. But most important of all, know what you are best at. Know your strength, work on it and master it.