Reena Ranger, Chair of Women Empowered, is In Conversation with Magic Singh as part of her regular series for iGlobal to explore some inspirational facets from the life and achievements of prominent Global Indians.
Amardeep a.k.a. Magic Singh is a London-born magician who began his career at the tender age of 11 on receiving a deck of trick cards from his parents at Christmas and by 15 he was a fully-fledged member of the esteemed Young Magician's Circle. Today, as one of the UK's finest magical talents, Singh is well-known for his unique visual magic and mindreading techniques. Here he tells Reena Ranger about his magical journey, venturing into cyberspace and finding a new lockdown normal.
Was there much concern about deviating from traditional paths when you chose such an unconventional career?
I chose to pursue a career path in the magical arts of becoming a magician not something a young Sikh boy from Hounslow would ever utter from his mouth to a set of traditional Indian parents.
However, starting off as being an acceptable hobby, I was hooked! With inspirations from David Blaine, Derren Brown and Criss Angel, I wanted this life. Starting from age 11 right up until my graduation from university, I had grown from a novice to professional. That's when I decided to go for my dream!
There was plenty of discouragement and jealousy with my decision, as this was seen as a time pass? or hobby? or not a real job?. However, I remained focused on my goal and silenced all the naysayers and continued to manifest what I have today.
What impact has Covid-19 had on your world and what is now your new normal?
Since the attack of Covid-19, my first concern was to protect my family and I. Always thinking of ways to protect us from a universal threat that can t even be seen. I did not realise the severity of the situation and that 2020 was going to be a write off!
Almost all of my shows that were booked for this year have been postponed to 2021 or later into November/December. However, something tells me that I may not be performing to a live audience until next summer. So, what do I do for money?
We simply adapt? the world is online. So that's where I have decided to drive my business. Offering private and public shows through various online outlets such as Zoom, Skype, FaceTime and more. I have been able to create an online business through my love for magic.
Furthermore, thanks to my strong social media following, I am involved in many brand deal campaigns. This for now is the new normal. However, due to the success of this business model, I feel that when we have a solution for this virus, the option of an online show will be a bookable choice.
If you could go back and give your teenage self one bit of advice, what would it be?
It would be to take advantage of social media. YouTube being the prime focus.
I've always wanted a TV show from a very young age, and therefore I?ve always felt that TV would be the best platform to showcase my talents to the world. Had I just simply focused on creating what I already had and knew and channelled it all into YouTube, by now I would have already had a strong foundation to give me leverage for TV show or an on-demand programme. However, thankfully, it's never too late.
What do you think has been the most profound realisation or discovery about yourself over last few years?
There are many things that I have discovered about myself as a fully-grown adult with responsibilities that I only imagined grown ups? had to concern themselves with.
In 2016, I got to marry my best friend and soul mate? yes they do exist! I moved out of my parent's home and now had the responsibilities of being a husband, provider and still find time to be passionate about my career.
What I discovered was that my wife has always been my number one supporter encouraging me to be the best, do my best and never stop chasing my goals. On top of this, I have my own space and time where I can fully engross my mind into creating my empire. I?ve learned what's most important in life that is to live a healthy lifestyle, love your partner and never stop dating! Encourage one another to be the best version of themselves.
Reena Ranger is the Chair and Co-Founder of Women Empowered.In this exclusive In Conversation? series for iGlobal, the dynamic entrepreneur-philanthropist will be catching up with high-achieving Global Indians across different fields to spotlight some insightful life lessons.