At the heart of every successful pageant lies a panel of judges who bring not only expertise but also vision, integrity, and lived experience. At Mission Dreams Mr Miss Mrs India 2025–26, one such powerful presence was Poonam Thawani, whose journey from corporate leadership to the world of fashion and fitness stands as a true example of courage and reinvention.
Based in Pune, Maharashtra, Poonam brings with her over 25 years of professional experience as a Program Manager at Accenture. Her corporate career reflects discipline, strategic thinking, and leadership. Yet behind this successful professional identity lived a childhood dream of modeling that quietly waited for the right moment to rise.
That moment arrived after the age of forty.
Choosing to listen to her inner calling, Poonam decided to pursue her long-held passion for modeling. Her association with Mission Dreams proved to be life-changing. Through dedication, training, and consistent effort, she not only participated but went on to win the prestigious Mrs India title, followed by an international victory at the Mrs India International Opera Australia Contest.
These achievements opened doors to new opportunities. She was soon invited to judge leading national pageants, including the Panache Mrs Mr Miss India contest. From there, her journey as a respected jury member began.
Beyond modeling, Poonam shares a deep connection with fitness and wellness. Alongside her husband, founder of Body of God Gym, she serves as Director of the organization. His encouragement and belief played a vital role in strengthening her confidence and supporting her professional growth. Fitness, for her, is not just a lifestyle but a philosophy of self-discipline and empowerment.
At Mission Dreams 2025–26, held at the scenic Chariot Resort and Spa, Puri, Poonam played a key role as a jury member, especially in designing and executing the fitness selection round. The two-day national event, set against a serene coastal backdrop, offered the perfect environment for creativity, performance, and transformation. The venue added immense value to the experience, blending professionalism with inspiration.
Throughout the competition, which included introduction, national costume, talent, fitness, and personality rounds, Poonam evaluated contestants with fairness, empathy, and technical understanding. Her feedback helped many participants grow not only as performers but as individuals.
She openly acknowledges the influence of Mission Dreams founders Priya Priyambada ma’am and Darwin Thapa sir, whose vision and dedication inspired her journey. Their platform, she believes, provides genuine opportunities for people to rediscover themselves and chase dreams at any stage of life.
Poonam’s life story reflects resilience and adaptability. Though she initially aspired to become a doctor and later an engineer, family expectations guided her toward a stable corporate career. Yet she never let go of her creative spirit. With patience and persistence, she returned to her passion and built her identity step by step.
Her hobbies including playing guitar, piano, singing, baking, and sports reflect her love for continuous learning and self-expression. Her life philosophy remains simple yet powerful: to keep learning, growing, and keeping the spark of the soul alive.
As a jury member, mentor, and role model, Poonam Thawani represents what Mission Dreams truly stands for: courage, reinvention, and lifelong growth.
Today, at 47, she stands as proof that dreams do not expire. With the right platform, discipline, and belief, they only become stronger.