Riya Shrestha’s dreams came true when she was crowned Miss ANA Fashion Extravaganza 2014. She always believed that with hard work and motivation, you can reach your goals. The extrovert lass who lives in the USA visited Nepal and caught up with Anjila Shrestha  for a conversation:

Congratulations on winning the crown! Now, the most obvious question, what is your next step?

Thank you so much! Well, my next big step will be to successfully pursue my degrees in Computer Science and Marketing. I would also like to be a productive member of the society and make my country proud.

What’s your purpose of visit? What are your plans during your stay and what have you been doing so far as a title winner?

My primary reason for the visit was to help out and contribute to the relief and restoration of my country after the disaster. I have been proactively involved with the team 3G1B — for humanity which focuses on relief work. Also, I got to spend time with my friends and family and had an opportunity to meet great personalities in Nepal who have always inspired me.

Tell us a little more about this pageant ANA Convention?

ANA Fashion is the integral part of ANA convention (The Association of Nepalese in America) since 2008. ANA Fashion Extravaganza has been making its own mark in the United States and Nepalamong the Nepalis and other nationalities. It provides a platform to cultivate and showcase the talent of Nepali youth and strives to bridge the gap between the Nepali and American cultures. It was an exciting adventure for me! I got the chance to meet many talented young Nepali people.

Were you ever interested to venture into the modelling world?

I have always been inspired by fashion but unfortunately never had the opportunity to become a model professionally until I got into ANA fashion.

Other than Miss US ANA tell us about your recent accomplishments...

As Miss ANA I was able to raise funds for Nepal in order to help with the earthquake relief effort. I was also fortunate enough to have the opportunity to assist my country personally in these times of need.

How has your life changed after being crowned Miss ANA 2014?

After being crowned Miss ANA, I have been exposed to different aspects of the Nepali culture that I was previously unaware of. It has definitely developed my personality and given me confidence. I have also learned that to accomplish anything, one has to have a positive approach toward life.

What projects are you looking forward to?

Currently, I am looking forward to the results of the projects I have completed, such as my music video and also looking forward to a couple of upcoming photo shoots. I would also like to be proactively involved with 3G1B even after I return to the United States.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?

I see myself  pursuing my Masters. I would also like to continue my social work and become a successful independent person.

Let’s get to know you personally

Your 2 am friend

My sisters

First thing you want in the morning

Coffee and eggs

What qualities should your Mr Right have?

Loyalty and a great sense of humour.

Do you think love just happens once?

Depends upon what kind of love we are talking about. But I don't think love happens just once. (laughs)

Cocktail that best suits your personality

Cosmopolitan — it’s fun and girly like me.

What are the three things that we don’t know about you?

I am a spiritual person. I have a strong sense of commitment and I am

self-motivated

One actor/model you would love to get naughty with?

Chris Evans