Roopam Lakhanpal: From Flight Attendant to Influencer and Entrepreneur
Roopam Lakhanpal is a name that resonates with hard work, sacrifice, and a relentless drive to follow her passions. Her journey from being a flight attendant to becoming an influencer and entrepreneur is a true testament to her determination, resilience, and ability to turn dreams into reality.
A Lifelong Commitment to Hard Work and Family
Roopam’s story begins in her teenage years, when she first stepped into the role of a flight attendant with Cathay Pacific. While this job was challenging, it also marked the start of a significant chapter in her life. It wasn’t just a career choice for her—it was a lifeline. Her father’s battle with paralysis brought with it an emotional and financial burden that Roopam took on wholeheartedly. The mounting medical bills were a constant reminder of her responsibility to her family. Every flight she took, every long shift she worked, was not just to make ends meet but to ensure her father received the best care possible.
This early experience ingrained in her the importance of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to loved ones. These values would stay with her throughout her professional journey, shaping her decisions and approach to life.
The Shift to Influencing and Luxury Lifestyle
Becoming an influencer was not an overnight decision for Roopam. It was a natural progression fueled by her love for luxury, travel, food, and the pursuit of unforgettable experiences. Roopam always had a passion for discovering new places, trying unique cuisines, and sharing her experiences with others. As she continued to grow her presence online, she quickly realized that she could leverage her love for these things to connect with an audience that shared her interests.
Her Instagram account (@roopamm_lakhanpal) became a hub for her luxury lifestyle, from elegant dining experiences to stunning travel destinations. As Roopam’s follower count grew, so did her opportunities to collaborate with brands, further establishing her as a voice in the luxury and lifestyle space. What sets Roopam apart is her authenticity—she shares not just the glamorous side of her life, but also her struggles and how she overcomes them.
A Valuable Professional Experience Across Industries
Roopam’s professional journey has been a dynamic blend of aviation, international business, finance, and publishing. She began her career with Cathay Pacific, where she honed her skills in customer service, global networking, and operational efficiency.
Following her time in aviation, she transitioned to the footwear industry with NB Footwear, where she played a crucial role in setting up the company’s central sales office in Venlo, Europe. This opportunity allowed her to work in international markets, drive business expansion, and establish strong partnerships across Europe.
Roopam then moved into the financial sector, joining IL&FS Academy for Insurance and Finance as a Senior Sales Manager. Here, she managed and expanded 35 insurance training centers across India, contributing to the company’s growth and its eventual acquisition by HSBC Bank as their in-house training partner.
Building on her expertise in financial education and sales, she later worked with Hubbis, which dealt with events and conferences in Hong Kong. At Hubbis, she was responsible for representing the brand and driving sales for top-tier banks. Working closely with Michael Stanhope, a leading sales professional, she gained invaluable insights into structured sales processes, deal closing, and cost control—skills that became essential in her career.
Hubbis was eventually acquired by Incisive Financial Publishing, one of the largest financial publishing houses, marking another significant milestone in her professional journey. The experience provided Roopam with a deeper understanding of financial media, corporate strategy, and high-level sales, laying a strong foundation for her entrepreneurial ventures.
The Challenges of Moving to a New Country and Adjusting
Like many individuals who embark on an international journey, Roopam faced her own set of challenges. Moving to Hong Kong was not without its hurdles. One of the major challenges she encountered was the language barrier. As someone who didn’t speak Cantonese, communication with the locals became a struggle at times. Moreover, being a vegetarian in a country with a cuisine predominantly centered around meat was an additional obstacle she had to navigate while traveling internationally.
However, Roopam’s adaptability and determination allowed her to push through these challenges. She embraced the cultural differences, learned new ways to communicate, and discovered creative solutions to accommodate her dietary preferences. These experiences broadened her perspective, both personally and professionally.
Building a Personal Brand and Future Plans
Currently, Roopam is focused on building a strong following as an influencer, with a specific goal in mind—launching her own exclusive Airbnb villa in Mumbai. She’s working diligently to create an engaged and dedicated audience that appreciates her lifestyle, while leveraging her influence to market the unique charm of her future villa. This venture will be more than just a business for Roopam; it’s a way for her to bring her vision of luxury and comfort to life for her followers, offering them a special place to experience unforgettable moments.
Roopam’s growing platform is just the beginning of her entrepreneurial ambitions. With her strong base of followers and growing influence, she aims to provide exclusive experiences and inspire others to follow their dreams.
Overcoming Setbacks and Learning from Mistakes
No success story is complete without its setbacks, and Roopam’s journey is no exception. One of her most significant challenges was resigning from her job at Incisive Financial Publishing without seeking legal advice. At the time, her priorities were focused on her newborn daughter, and she decided to step away from the job without fully understanding the legal and financial implications of her decision. In hindsight, Roopam acknowledges the importance of being well-informed before making such decisions and advises others to always seek proper guidance when needed.
However, this setback was just another lesson in Roopam’s journey. She learned that while it’s essential to prioritize family and personal life, it’s also crucial to think long-term and understand the legal and financial consequences of major decisions. These lessons have shaped her approach to work and life moving forward.
The Importance of Balance and Personal Growth
Throughout her journey, Roopam has come to realize that success is not just about titles or financial achievements. For her, success is about living life on her own terms—having the freedom to pursue her passions and build a life that brings fulfillment. She believes that true success lies in maintaining a balance between personal and professional life, and she works hard every day to nurture both.
One of the most important lessons Roopam has learned is to never let emotions cloud her judgment when it comes to business and relationships. While she places great value on building strong, meaningful connections, she understands the importance of objectivity and professionalism in her work. This balance allows her to make informed decisions and maintain a clear focus on her goals.
Advice for the Younger Generation
Reflecting on her journey, Roopam would give her younger self one valuable piece of advice: slow down, take a sip, and save for the future. She believes in the importance of enjoying the journey, but also understands that life moves fast. While experiences and indulgences are important, it’s equally crucial to plan for the future and maintain financial security. Smart saving and investing create the foundation for long-term freedom, allowing individuals to enjoy life’s pleasures without compromising their future.
Roopam’s message to the younger generation is clear—balance indulgence with responsibility. Enjoy the moments, but always keep an eye on the bigger picture. By doing so, you’ll create a future filled with opportunities and security.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy of Harmony
Ultimately, Roopam hopes to be remembered as someone who maintained a balanced life, seamlessly managing her career and family. She prioritizes what truly matters: building a successful career without compromising the love, support, and connection she shares with her loved ones. Through her actions, Roopam wants to leave behind a legacy of harmony—showing others that it’s possible to pursue your passions while nurturing the most important relationships in life.
As Roopam continues to grow her influence and embark on new entrepreneurial ventures, she remains focused on her core values—hard work, dedication, and balance. Her story is one of perseverance, success, and an unwavering commitment to both personal and professional growth. Roopam Lakhanpal is not just an influencer; she is an inspiration to all those who dream of balancing passion and success while staying true to themselves. Do follow her on Instagram.
