The motto tagline of Sakhi, a community group for women, is “Together we grow and support each other to provide a safe haven for all women”.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Sakhi was started in 2017 with the support of Bharatiya Mandir to bring together women in New Zealand and provide them the support and services they need. Jyoti Parashar, who has been volunteering with Bharatiya Mandir for over 18 years, started this ladies’ group with the support of a few other volunteers – Aditee Naik, Lavanya Komalagiri, Smriti Saini and Nadya Poonawala.
The main purpose of starting this group was to create a safe space for women, to motivate them and provide the support to those in need. Sakhi has provided a platform to all migrant women to create friendships, share their feelings, promote small businesses, and support each another in whatever way possible.
Sakhi volunteers organised several online activities during Covid lockdowns to reduce social isolation and help them to stay connected with each other.
An end of the year gathering, and Christmas celebration was held on Saturday, 17th December at the Balmoral Community Centre in Sandringham.
Over 60 women attended the event, and the highlight of the event was experiences shared by some members, participants played games and exchanged secret Santa gifts.
Rani Nalam spoke on the importance of women’s wellbeing as well as her remarkable 28-year journey in New Zealand. The participants enjoyed playing games and had a great time relishing sumptuous refreshments. At the end of programme, some giveaway prizes were also distributed to participants.
Jyoti Parashar said the positive feedback from the Sakhis motivates her and her team to do more. One of the Sakhi members who attended the program said that they feel rejuvenated by attending Sakhi’s events. It gives them great motivation and a sense of belonging.
Participating members appreciated the efforts done by Sakhi volunteers through all these years to bring them together and support them mentally and emotionally.
For more information about Sakhi events and programs contact Jyoti Parashar – 0212082915 or Lavanya Komalagiri – 0210610058-TIN Bureau