In the heart of San Fernando, a remarkable story of resilience and creativity unfolds at Pretty V’s Petals floral boutique. Shanti Kissoon, 55, has transformed life’s profound hardships into an extraordinary talent for creating beauty through floral arrangements.
Growing up in rural Cumuto as one of thirteen children, Kissoon faced early adversity when she lost her mother to cancer at just 13 years old. This tragic loss became the catalyst for developing both practical skills and emotional resilience that would later define her artistic vision. “I learned to help maintain our home quickly,” Kissoon reflects, “but more importantly, I learned to see potential where others saw only limitation.”
Her floral business, co-operated with Amaan Dar at the Arcade Mall, represents more than commercial enterprise—it embodies a philosophy of transforming “ugly into beauty” and “pain into pleasantries.” This approach stems from childhood influences; her mother, Phoolmat, was an avid craft enthusiast and plant lover whose passion became Kissoon’s inheritance.
“My mother instilled in me this deep appreciation for nature’s overlooked treasures,” Kissoon explains. “While others might dismiss certain materials as ‘old bush,’ I see inherent beauty. This perspective extends beyond floristry—it’s how I approach life itself.”
Completely self-taught, Kissoon developed her distinctive style through observation and experimentation. Her creations have gained particular attention for their non-conventional designs and colors, with clients increasingly seeking arrangements that maintain their appeal beyond seasonal celebrations.
The Christmas season holds complex emotional resonance for Kissoon, evoking memories of impoverished but joyful celebrations. “We created decorations from saved matchboxes wrapped as gifts and used pine branches as Christmas trees,” she recalls. “Those experiences taught me that celebration isn’t about material wealth but about shared joy and creativity.”
This philosophy now informs her business ethos: “Christmas represents faith, family, and love—not commercial competition. I strive to help people remember those less fortunate and brighten lives through floral artistry that carries emotional significance beyond aesthetic appeal.”
Kissoon’s journey from Cumuto to successful entrepreneurship demonstrates how personal history can shape professional excellence. Her story stands as testament to the transformative power of viewing challenges as opportunities and finding beauty in unexpected places.