Exploring the diverse journey of Tina Singh Walia, reinforcing individuals through transformative image consulting

Born in a loving and supporting family, Tina has come a long-way when she was called ‘Big Ethel’ as she was very tall, skinny, had a unibrow and cystic acne along with hirsutism (due to PCOS). Such issues really shattered her self-esteem. The icing on the cake was when she put on 14 kilos due to comfort eating during her 12th board preparation.

Looking ahead, she thought about spreading the message of empowerment loud and clear. Tina believes that every woman deserves to feel confident, successful, and valued, regardless of age or circumstance,

Fast forward on her 40th birthday, and she found herself pondering the next chapter. With the kids on the brink of leaving the nest, she decided to dive into the world of Image Management and Soft Skills Training, earning an international certification from ICBI. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind of consultations, group trainings, and corporate gigs with big names like HCL Healthcare and IndiGo Airways. At 47, armed with certifications as a life coach and NLP practitioner, She is on a mission to empower women to embrace their potential, no matter their age. Because, let’s face it, life’s too short to let opportunities pass us by.

Tina believes that overall, as an image consultant, you play a crucial role in helping individuals and organizations cultivate a positive and authentic image that supports their personal and professional goals.

“In an interconnected world where communication often transcends borders, individuals may seek image coaching to navigate cultural differences and present themselves appropriately in diverse settings, “reiterates Tina.

She further adds, “Image coaching is not limited to just personal appearance. There are specialized niches such as executive presence coaching, public speaking coaching, and digital image consulting, catering to specific needs and preferences of clients,”

She also enjoys a massive following on Instagram, where she tries to educate women about various aspects such as wellness, Image management via appearance, behaviour, communication and etiquette.

Speaking about styling a corporate look, she feels, “Styling isn’t just about putting together a killer outfit—it’s an art form, a way of expressing yourself to the world. For my corporate warriors, I always recommend tailored pieces that scream professionalism—think blazers, sleeveless Nehru collars, and waistcoats. Stick to neutral colors, keep the makeup subtle, and opt for closed-toe shoes to seal the deal. And for my work-from-home queens, comfort is key. Co-ord sets, chic loungewear, and structured leggings are your best friends. Add a touch of polish with accessories like statement earrings or a printed scarf, and you’re good to go,”

When it comes to styling her own looks, Tina always carries some essentials in her bag, “Compact powder for touch-ups, lipstick for a pop of color, and lip balm for hydration. And let’s not forget the practical stuff—a comb for unruly hair, hand cream for silky smooth hands, and sunglasses for those bright, sunny days. Toss in some reading glasses, sanitizer, and a few wet wipes for good measure, and you’re ready for anything life throws your way. They say I’m like Mary Poppins—always prepared for whatever adventure comes my way,”

Today Tina balances her work-life along with home-life, “Balancing work and home life is a never-ending juggling act. Some days, work takes center stage; other days, it’s all about family. It’s like riding a seesaw—you’re constantly adjusting to keep both sides from tipping too far. But hey, that’s life, right? It’s all about finding that sweet spot of equilibrium, even if it’s a bit wobbly at times”, she concludes.

Overall, the market for image coaches is diverse and continues to expand as individuals and organizations recognize the value of projecting a positive and authentic image in today’s society.