Hazel Batra, based in Dubai, has made an inspiring leap from software engineering to global fashion and entertainment. Her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival’s red carpet marks a big step, just months after she was crowned Mrs Universe Emirates. This transformation highlights how passion, determination, and purpose can lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities.
In the tech world, Hazel worked as a software engineer. Beneath the professional facade, she nurtured a deep love for fashion and acting. Even while working full time and caring for her family, she kept the dream alive. A modeling opportunity early in her life had slipped away, but Hazel never let it go. When she won Mrs Universe Emirates, that title gave her the visibility and encouragement to pursue her lifelong dream.
“I always had a strong passion for fashion and acting,” says Hazel. That passion shone through on the Cannes red carpet, symbolizing both career achievement and personal victory. Her triumph serves as proof that it’s never too late to set your dreams back on track.
Since her Cannes debut, Hazel has moved into entertainment full-speed. She’s working on a major web series for a popular over-the-top (OTT) streaming platform. She’s also been a runway model for leading Indian designers like Shyamal Bhumika, Anju Modi, and Dinesh K Ramsay—and collaborated with high-end brands in beauty, fashion, and jewelry.
Hazel recalls facing many challenges along the way. In the early days, she trained late at night—balancing her creative push with studies and work—all while navigating societal expectations. Despite minimal initial support, she persisted and self-trained until she earned recognition.
Her role models include global icons like Priyanka Chopra, who showed that barriers can be broken with grace and courage. Inspired by such figures, Hazel is now paving her own path. She’s also a devoted mother to a two-year-old daughter, proving that ambitious career shifts and family life can co-exist.
Hazel believes real success comes when your “soul feels at peace” and you wake up excited for the day. She doesn’t measure success by red carpet appearances alone; it’s about inspiring others to pursue second chances and dreams. As a public figure, she uses her growing platform—on social media and in media interviews—to motivate others to challenge norms and trust their inner calling.
Her growing online presence via @hazelbatraofficial shows a journey filled with creative projects in the pipeline. Hazel hopes that her story resonates with everyone who dares to rethink their path, no matter their age or profession.
As Hazel continues to shine—from red carpets to acting sets—the core message remains consistent: believe in yourself, stay disciplined, and embrace the power of starting again. Her journey reinforces a powerful lesson: when passion meets grit, even the most unlikely dreams can take centre stage.
Hazel Batra’s rise—from tech specialist to Mrs Universe Emirates and Cannes newcomer—is proof that it’s never too late to chase a dream. Her story encourages others to find peace in purpose and courage to pursue what sets their hearts on fire.