Sakhi Ethnic Family Market Day was held on Sunday, 31 August 2025 at the New Lynn Community Centre, bringing together families, performers, and small businesses for a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community spirit. Despite the rainy weather, the hall was filled with colour, energy, and warmth.
The event featured cultural performances, live music, food stalls, community activities, and a fashion show showcasing traditional and modern ethnic attire. Visitors explored handcrafted goods, jewellery, art, clothing, and delicious vegetarian food, while also connecting with local entrepreneurs and community members.
Consul General of India, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, and his wife Swagatika Bhuyan attended as chief guests. Dr. Sethi commended Sakhi for empowering women, promoting small businesses, and strengthening multicultural ties within Auckland.
Sakhi, meaning friend, was founded in 2017 by community leaders Jyoti Parashar and Aditee Naik. Today, it is led by Jyoti Parashar, Lavanya Komal, and a dedicated team of volunteers as a safe and welcoming space for women, especially new migrants, to connect, share resources, and support each other. Over the years, Sakhi has grown into a platform for empowerment, cultural celebration, and community building.
“All our activities are proudly run by passionate volunteers who want to create positive change,” Mrs. Parashar said. “This Market Day was about more than shopping or performances – it was about giving small and home-based businesses, many run by women, a platform to be seen and supported.”
The event was made possible with the support of the Whau Ethnic Collective and the New Lynn Hub Team, along with the efforts of volunteers, stallholders, performers, and community partners.
Special thanks go to the dedicated volunteers – Shilpy Sabarwal, Khyama Chug, Sunitha Itla, Divya Ojha, Kiran Drall, Amita Bansal, Swati Bhargava, Maulee Bhatt, Nobia Fawad, and Priya Ramrakhiani for their hard work and commitment in making the event a success. Gratitude is also extended to Mr Kesar Singh (Indus Legal Barristers and Solicitors), Manpreet and Param from Posh Angels, Amita Bansal from Mystic Immigrations, and Sneha Saini from Desi Threads for their support and for standing alongside Sakhi in this community initiative.
Lavanya Komal shared that the strong turnout and positive feedback have encouraged Sakhi to continue creating more opportunities that bring people together. Jyoti Parashar mentioned that Sakhi was created to support women in connecting with each other, sharing resources, and offering support in various aspects of life. The Ethnic Family Market Day not only celebrated diversity and creativity but also highlighted the importance of community support in helping small businesses grow.
Market and food stallholders expressed gratitude to the Sakhi team for creating a platform that not only promoted their businesses but also strengthened their connection with the wider community.
For more information about Sakhi or upcoming events, please contact Jyoti Parashar at 0212082915-TIN Bureau