Manoj has spent the past 12 years on a healing journey, working to grow and learn to accept himself. Struggling with his weight for most of his teens and early 20s, he gained confidence in himself when he taught himself how to cook and lost over 100 lbs. Manoj is of Indian decent and grew up with traditional Indian parents which often caused strife and conflict between himself and his parents. Struggling within himself to find his identity, he went so far as to change his name and try to disconnect from his heritage. Only through losing himself could he truly find himself inside the rubble. He has spent the past year working with incarcerated individuals in Ukiah with a nonprofit serving marginalized populations. Manoj is passionate about helping people see their gifts and realize the life they want for themselves.