At 24, KwaZulu-Natal’s Karuna Eraman is proving that it is possible to pursue many passions without compromise. A newly graduated LLB holder, black belt in Shotokan Karate, accomplished drummer, dancer and choreographer, pageant titleholder and philanthropist, she is using every platform available to uplift those around her. Fresh from being named the youngest recipient of the Heart of Gold Award, Eraman sat down with Tabloid Newspapers for an honest conversation about purpose, perseverance and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
TN: If you had to describe yourself beyond your achievements, how would you define who you are?
KE: I am a blend of passion, rhythm, and resilience. Take away the achievements, and you’ll find someone who loves fiercely, laughs easily, and is deeply driven by the desire to inspire others. I’m just an artist and an optimist trying to leave the world a little brighter than I found it.
TN: What’s something small in your daily life that always brings you joy or grounds you?
KE: No matter how busy or chaotic a day gets, the absolute highlight is always coming home to my dog, Max. He has this incredible energy that immediately pulls me out of my head and right into the present moment. Just sitting on the floor, playing with him, or watching his chaotic little personality shine completely resets my day and reminds me of what truly matters.
TN: Is there a book, quote, or idea that has significantly shaped how you see life?
KE: The philosophy that has completely shaped my life is simple: never stop pushing for your dreams and goals, because even if you fall down, you will always wake up stronger. It’s a mindset of pure resilience. It has taught me that setbacks aren’t the end of the road; they are just preparation for the next level. Every time life knocks you down, it’s an opportunity to rebuild yourself with more grit, wisdom, and determination than before.
TN: How would you describe your upbringing and the values it instilled in you?
KE: I grew up in a very warm, supportive environment where family and community were at the centre of everything. My mother has always been my rock. She taught me that success is meaningless without humility and that lifting others up as you rise is one of life’s greatest responsibilities. I also owe so much of my growth and poise to the brilliant mentors who guided my early steps in the industry. Training under exceptional modelling coaches like Shaun Stander, Clive Chetty and Kamisha Nanhoo truly shaped my discipline and execution.
TN: What aspects of your younger self still feel very present in who you are today?
KE: The aspect of my younger self that is still very present today is an absolute, relentless curiosity. Even as a child, I was constantly asking questions, wanting to explore, and eager to learn. That same drive is what pushes me today. I always want to try something new, master a different skill, and step outside of my comfort zone. I’ve never lost that childhood sense of wonder and the belief that the world is full of things waiting to be discovered.
TN: When you look back, what moments feel like real turning points in your journey?
KE: For me, the real turning points haven’t been just one single event, but rather the moments where my different passions fully materialised. Stepping into major pageantry roles, successfully graduating with my Law degree, and most recently, being recognised by my community with the Heart of Gold Award have all been pivotal. Each of these moments marked a shift where I realised that all the discipline, late nights, and focus were building something meaningful.
TN: What first drew you to studying law, and how has that path shaped your thinking?
KE: I chose to study law because I wanted a foundation that would allow me to make a tangible, structural difference in society. Knowledge is power, and legal knowledge allows you to protect, defend, and elevate communities. This path has made my thinking much more strategic and forward-planning. It has taught me to look for solutions rather than just focusing on obstacles, and it has given me a deep sense of responsibility regarding how I use my platform to advocate for fairness and truth.
TN: Completing your LLB through distance learning requires discipline. What did that experience teach you about yourself?
KE: Distance learning completely strips away the traditional structure of a classroom. There are no lecturers keeping you on track daily or peers to lean on. Completing my LLB this way taught me that I possess an immense amount of self-accountability… (continue exactly as provided).
TN: How do you see the connection between your legal studies and the way you approach life and decision-making?
KE: It has made me more intentional. I value fairness, integrity and transparency, and I approach decisions by asking how I can advocate for what’s right while protecting my values.
TN: What inspired your journey into Shotokan Karate, and what has it taught you beyond physical discipline?
KE: Initially, I wanted to challenge myself and learn self-defence. But karate became so much more. It taught me focus, humility and inner calm. Earning my black belt proved that mastery takes patience and perseverance.
TN: How did you first get into drumming, and what does music give you that other parts of your life don’t?
KE: I’ve always been obsessed with rhythm and beat. Drumming gives me something nothing else does — total mental release. It’s raw energy, instinct and freedom.
TN: When you’re behind a drum or on stage, what kind of space are you in mentally and emotionally?
KE: The noise of everyday life disappears. It’s a beautiful mix of vulnerability and power. I feel most connected to my truest self in those moments.
TN: You’re also involved in multiple dance styles and choreography — how did that creative path evolve for you?
KE: Dance was my first love. Transitioning into choreography through my initiative, Dil se Dance, allowed me to create opportunities for others, build confidence in young dancers and share the joy of movement with the community.
TN: How do you balance and switch between the structure of law and the freedom of the arts?
KE: I don’t see them as opposites. Law gives me structure and discipline, while the arts provide emotional release and intuition. They complement one another beautifully.
TN: What does discipline mean to you across all the different areas of your life?
KE: Discipline is self-respect. It’s the promise you make to yourself to continue showing up. Mastery isn’t one extraordinary moment — it’s the quiet choices you make consistently when nobody is watching.
TN: How has pageantry influenced your confidence, identity, or sense of purpose?
KE: It gave me confidence and grace under pressure. It taught me that true confidence isn’t the absence of fear — it’s carrying yourself with purpose and poise despite it. It tests your resilience, your articulation, and your ability to connect with people from all walks of life in a split second. That experience gave me a refined sense of identity and it grounded me in who I am and what I stand for. It taught me that real confidence isn’t the absence of fear, but the ability to carry yourself with poise, purpose, and impact.
TN: What inspired you to start your free dance initiative for children in your community?
KE: I wanted to create a safe space where children could discover their own potential. Dance builds confidence, teamwork and focus. I wanted every child to have access to that opportunity.
TN: What kind of impact have you seen in the children you teach?
KE: The biggest transformation is confidence. The children become more expressive, self-assured and compassionate. We also engage in charity work together, teaching them the importance of giving back.
TN: Are there any organisations, NPOs, or community groups you currently work with or hope to collaborate with?
KE: Being crowned ZeeTV Miss India South Africa 2024 First Princess opened many doors. As a Miss Ballito 2026 finalist, I’m involved in fundraising initiatives organised by the Rotary Club of Zimbali, supporting outreach projects for vulnerable communities on the North Coast. I hope to expand this work through empowerment workshops for children.
TN: Looking at everything you’re involved in, what kind of legacy do you hope to build?
KE: I want people to know they never have to shrink themselves to fit into one identity. I hope to be remembered for opening doors for others and showing young people that they don’t have to wait to make a difference. You can build a life of purpose, passion and service right now.
