Somewhere over the rainbow...

Wendell Rodricks's niece pens a heartfelt tribute to 'the man who took a chance on me and helped me live my dream'

Wendell Rodricks launched his niece Kyara Coelho in 2018 at a show titled Wow Factor, and called her "the new Twiggy of India". Coelho, an Andheri resident and arts student from St Xavier's College, writes a heartfelt letter to her uncle, Wendell.

Dearest Wendell,
You have inspired me to go after my dreams, to rewrite my story and never settle for less. You believed in me at 17 and I owe everything to you. You took a chance on me — and put me on a platform I'd only dreamed about. And, with that, you gave me the confidence to actually do it and live my dream. And, you were right by my side, cheering the loudest and happiest 'Yay Kyara'. We are all cheering for you, Wendell.

Your constant motivation, support and guidance got me where I am today. You showed me the way. Thank you for seeing the potential in me, for encouraging and guiding me, for letting me be a part of your world. You have inspired me to trust in my power, believe in myself, live life on my terms and be whatever it is that I want to be. The love you left behind is immeasurable. I've realised that some bonds cannot be broken. Because even though you're not physically here, your heart is — it lives on.

You were fearless and had a fire that burned bright, a way of taking possibilities and transforming them into realities. Of never taking no for an answer and standing up for what was right. You didn't just believe in change — you were the change.

The real life anecdotes you narrated with expressions and actions were so fascinating and your warm sense of humour ran through your storytelling. Your love for food and music shone bright and those who didn't know you could live vicariously thanks to all your beautiful posts on social media. A perfectionist to the smallest detail, and a human with
humility.

You dedicated so much of your time helping people, caring for the environment and our little furry friends and you always had the kindest words to say. I am so blessed to have known you. Full of life and love, you gave as much as you could. Thank you for everything you have done for me and for this world. The most wonderful people in our lives don't
show up by accident, they are the people who are meant to be there, the ones who live, love and laugh and remind us to live the life of our dreams.

I know you're somewhere over that rainbow today, where bluebirds fly and skies are blue. I can see you now, flying with the angels, and dressing them in style.

Love forever,
Kyara

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