The June ‘Happiness & Success’ event organized by Empowered BWB in collaboration with She Magazine, Harman Foundation & Usana was an incredible day filled with various highlights. Attendees, who were passionate about promoting holistic well-being, enjoyed insightful talks, engaging panel discussions, tantalizing healthy food tastings, and free samples of wellness products.

The reason we decided to team up with Usana is that Usana is not just a business but they have integrated a charity aspect into their operations through the Usana Foundation (https://www.usanafoundation.org/). The foundation works tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals by providing much needed assistance and resources to those in need.

Councillor Jessica Brazier, the Guest of Honour, delivered an inspiring speech on the challenges of being a super mom, sharing her secrets on balancing multiple responsibilities. Her empowering message resonated with the audience, reminding them that they have the power to achieve their dreams while fulfilling various roles in life.

Guest Speaker Rochelle Potter, the General Manager of Usana (Australia & NZ), shared her awe-inspiring story of overcoming adversity and transforming her life. Her journey served as a powerful reminder of the strength and determination that can help us overcome difficult circumstances.

The panel discussion featured remarkable individuals sharing their unique experiences and perspectives. Harinder Kaur spoke passionately about resilience and self-love, emphasizing that we have the strength within us to bounce back from challenges. Tiya Gorain bravely opened up about her battle with anorexia and the importance of self-acceptance. Her story highlighted the significance of embracing oneself.

Debbie Baird, an expert in nutrition, who joined through zoom, discussed the vital role of supplements in our diet, providing valuable knowledge and practical tips to improve dietary habits in today’s fast-paced world.

The launch of Usana India added to the excitement, offering people in India the opportunity to join Usana.

The event was skillfully navigated by the emcee Mercedes Durante, whose vibrant personality created a positive and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the day.

In addition to the talks and discussions, attendees enjoyed healthy food tastings and received free samples of wellness products, catering to their well-being journey.

Special thanks were extended to Sarita Verma, Casey Zhang, Baktash, and Davinder Sethi for their unwavering support, and Sony Sodhi, an exceptionally talented chef in Sydney, for the delicious food provided.

The event served as a reminder that our well-being is a multi-faceted endeavor, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional aspects. With the insights gained from this event, participants are now equipped to embrace a holistic approach to their personal wellness.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the guest speakers, panelists, and everyone involved in organizing this remarkable event. Their dedication to promoting health and wellness has undoubtedly inspired countless individuals to embark on their own transformative journeys.

Here’s to a healthier, happier, and more balanced future for all! 🌿✨

International Yoga Day: Celebrating Unity, Health, and Spiritual Wellness

Yoga, an ancient practice originating from the mystical land of India, has garnered global recognition and appreciation in recent times. On June 21st every year, people from all walks of life come together to celebrate International Yoga Day, commemorating the invaluable contributions of this ancient discipline to humanity. This special day serves as a reminder of the profound significance of yoga, its roots in ancient India and Hinduism, the role of Lord Shiva as the original yogi, and the ongoing relevance of this practice in modern times.

The origin of yoga can be traced back thousands of years to the Indus Valley Civilization, where archaeological excavations have unearthed artifacts depicting yogic poses. However, it was in ancient India that yoga flourished and evolved into a comprehensive system for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The foundational texts of yoga, such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita, were written around 2,000 years ago, providing guidance on the practice and philosophy of yoga.

In Hinduism, yoga is deeply intertwined with spirituality and is considered a means to attain union with the divine. Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, is revered as the original yogi and the Adi Guru (the first teacher of yoga). According to ancient scriptures, Lord Shiva is said to have imparted the knowledge of yoga to his consort Parvati and the Saptarishis (seven sages) in the Himalayas. Lord Shiva’s association with yoga highlights the profound spiritual connection of this practice and its integration into Hindu philosophy.

Fast forward to the present day, and yoga has transcended its origins to become a global phenomenon. Its immense popularity can be attributed to the profound benefits it offers to practitioners. Yoga encompasses a holistic approach to well-being, combining physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation, and ethical principles. This comprehensive system cultivates balance, strength, flexibility, and endurance in the physical body while promoting mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual growth.

In modern times, where stress, sedentary lifestyles, and mental health issues have become prevalent, yoga provides a sanctuary for individuals seeking solace and balance. The practice of yoga offers a respite from the hectic pace of life, allowing individuals to reconnect with their inner selves, find inner peace, and enhance their overall well-being. Regular practice of yoga has been shown to reduce stress, improve flexibility and strength, boost cardiovascular health, promote mindfulness, and enhance mental focus.

Furthermore, yoga is a unifying force that transcends cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries. International Yoga Day serves as a reminder of the shared values and aspirations that bind humanity together. It promotes unity, harmony, and inclusivity, encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to come together and celebrate the universal principles of peace, compassion, and well-being.

In conclusion, International Yoga Day serves as a powerful reminder of the ancient roots of yoga in India and Hinduism, its deep connection with Lord Shiva as the original yogi, and its continued relevance in modern times. Yoga offers a transformative journey of self-discovery, fostering physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. By embracing the practice of yoga, individuals can find harmony within themselves and contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world. So, on this International Yoga Day, let us come together to celebrate the invaluable gift of yoga and embark on a journey of wellness, unity, and self-realization.

Today, we commemorate World Refugee Day, a momentous occasion that shines a light on the challenges faced by millions of individuals who have been forced to leave their homes due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters. This day serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and determination exhibited by refugees as they strive to rebuild their lives and contribute to the societies that have offered them sanctuary.

Refugees and migrants bring a wealth of skills, experiences, and perspectives to the workforce, enriching the communities they become a part of. By embracing diversity and recognizing the potential of these individuals, companies can unlock numerous benefits. Here are a few ways migrants contribute to the workforce:

1. Diversity and Innovation: Migrants bring unique cultural backgrounds, ideas, and problem-solving approaches that foster creativity and innovation within organizations. Their diverse experiences can lead to fresh perspectives and out-of-the-box thinking, propelling businesses forward.

2. Skills and Expertise: Many refugees possess valuable skills, knowledge, and qualifications that can greatly benefit the job market. They often have expertise in areas such as healthcare, engineering, IT, entrepreneurship, and more. By tapping into this talent pool, companies can address skills shortages and foster a competitive advantage.

3. Multilingualism: Language barriers can be a challenge in today’s globalized world. Migrants often bring linguistic proficiency in multiple languages, enabling companies to expand their reach and effectively communicate with diverse customer bases around the world.

4. Resilience and Work Ethic: Refugees have demonstrated remarkable resilience in overcoming adversity. They often exhibit a strong work ethic, determination, and gratitude for the opportunities provided to them. Such attributes contribute to a positive work environment and foster a culture of growth and perseverance.

To maximize the potential of refugee workers and create inclusive work environments, several initiatives can be implemented:

1. Awareness and Sensitization: Companies can educate their employees about the value and contributions of refugees in the workforce. By fostering empathy and understanding, organizations can reduce prejudice and promote an inclusive culture that welcomes refugees.

2. Skills Assessment and Training: Organizations can partner with NGOs, government agencies, and refugee support organizations to assess the skills, qualifications, and experiences of refugee candidates. Providing targeted training programs or access to bridging courses can help refugees align their skills with local job market requirements.

3. Mentorship Programs: Establishing mentorship programs can facilitate the integration of refugees into the workplace. Experienced employees can offer guidance, support, and cultural orientation to refugee workers, helping them navigate the new work environment and develop professionally.

4. Partnerships and Collaborations: Companies can collaborate with NGOs, refugee resettlement agencies, and community organizations to identify potential candidates and facilitate their integration into the workforce. Partnerships can streamline recruitment processes, offer support systems, and provide resources for language learning and cultural integration.

5. Diversity and Inclusion Policies: Implementing diversity and inclusion policies that specifically address the inclusion of refugees and migrants can foster an environment of equality and respect. Companies can establish recruitment targets, establish inclusive HR practices, and provide resources for diversity training.

By embracing refugees in the workforce and implementing these initiatives, companies can harness the potential of a diverse talent pool, promote social responsibility, and contribute to the sustainable integration of refugees into their new communities.

On this World Refugee Day, let us recognize the strength, resilience, and valuable contributions of refugees. Together, we can build a more inclusive, compassionate, and prosperous future for all.

We recently organised a photoshoot titled ‘Garden of Elegance’ in collaboration with She magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au) for Silk Roots Boutique.

Silk Roots Boutique is a treasure trove of style, where every piece has been carefully chosen to exude charm, grace, and allure. Feel free to check them out on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silk_roots__boutique.

Step into a world of classic elegance with their black and white polka dot dress as seen on Cristina Casanovi (www.instagram.com/cristinacasanovi). This stunning piece combines the timeless appeal of polka dots with a modern silhouette, creating a truly remarkable ensemble.

Indulge your romantic side with their enchanting pink lacy top paired with a cute white skirt as seen on Tiya Gorain. This delicate ensemble is a symphony of grace and elegance.

Prepare to turn heads and make a bold statement with their sensational hot pink dress as seen on Cristina Casanovi. This vibrant and captivating piece is designed to command attention and radiate confidence.

Their floral dupatta as seen on Emma Mees (www.Instagram.com/emma__mees) is a captivating accessory that complements any style.

Outfits & Styling:

Silk Roots Boutique

Photography:

Emma Mees Photography (www.instagram.com/emma__mees)

Silk Roots Boutique

The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, and a cool breeze fills the air, we know that autumn has arrived. This magical season not only brings a change in the weather but also offers valuable life lessons. It teaches us the beauty of letting go, the power of perseverance, and the hope for a new beginning, much like the cycle of seasons itself. And what better way to celebrate the spirit of autumn than by exploring the fabulous fashion it brings?

Autumn fashion allows us to express our creativity while keeping us cozy and stylish. As we transition from the light fabrics of summer, we welcome the opportunity to layer our outfits with warm and fashionable pieces. Let’s delve into some autumn wardrobe essentials and the significance they carry, reflecting the lessons autumn imparts.

🍂 Leather Jackets: Like the protective layer of fallen leaves that cover the ground, a leather jacket adds a touch of edginess and protection to our autumn attire. Just as autumn reminds us to shed the old and prepare for new beginnings, a leather jacket symbolizes strength and resilience. It encourages us to face challenges head-on, knowing we have the power to endure.

🍁 Scarves: As the air becomes crisper, scarves become our trusty companions, offering warmth and style. Much like the vibrant hues of autumn foliage, scarves bring a pop of color and personality to our outfits. They remind us that change can be beautiful and that embracing diversity adds depth and richness to our lives.

🍂 Boots: Autumn showers and muddy paths call for reliable and fashionable footwear. Boots not only keep our feet dry and cozy but also elevate our outfits with their versatility. They represent the stability and grounding we need during transitional periods. Just as trees root themselves firmly in the ground, boots encourage us to stand strong and face the winds of change with confidence.

🍁 Shawls: Wrap yourself in the elegance of a shawl, and you’ll feel the grace and beauty of autumn enveloping you. Shawls symbolize the art of letting go, as they gracefully drape over our shoulders, allowing us to release what no longer serves us. They remind us that true strength lies in embracing vulnerability and finding solace in the embrace of change.

Autumn teaches us to persevere through life’s challenges and to find hope in the promise of new beginnings. As the leaves fall, they create space for growth and renewal, paving the way for a fresh start in the coming seasons. By embracing autumn fashion and its symbolic meaning, we can reflect on the beauty of change and draw inspiration from the resilience of nature.

So, let us don our leather jackets, wrap ourselves in scarves, slip on our boots, and gracefully embrace the autumn shawls. Let us carry the lessons of this vibrant season within us, remembering to let go, persevere, and have hope for the coming spring. Just as autumn gracefully transitions into winter, we too can navigate the ebb and flow of life with grace and style.

‘Chic In The Fall’ – our May 2023 Fashion Issue in collaboration with She magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au/) is dedicated to the fashionable and transformative autumn season!

Supported By:

Eesha Boutique

(https://www.eeshaboutique.com)

Artantana Handmade

(https://www.instagram.com/artantana_handmade)

Light Antana Photography

(https://www.instagram.com/light_antana)

Louise Veronica Fashion Styling 

(https://www.facebook.com/louiseveronica.89)

Bani Thani Boutique

(https://www.facebook.com/Banithanisydney)

VikiLinks

(https://www.facebook.com/VikilinksAustralia)

The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.

We are pleased to welcome the gorgeous and talented Julie Warner, who recently joined our platform as a Supporter & Volunteer.

Julie started her first business at the age of 21, her second in 2003 from her love of travel (she has visited 130+ countries) – with a Travel planning/broker style business and in 2017 launched “Your Business Helper” (YBH). YBH helps cash-strapped, time-poor small business owners manage their online world with affordable website design, digital strategy planning and content creation services to get them found online and remembered.

Julie also established the not for profit business networking group “Independent Business Network Inc” (IBNInc) in 2008 providing business education and support to local micro and small business owners in the Hills District of Sydney. With a passion to help others in their business journey to succeed, she enjoys contributing to the local Hills District community providing an affordable, safe and inclusive space for business women and men to meet, learn and grow.

Julie also works as a NSW Government funded Business Connect Advisor and enjoys being able to work with and support local small business intenders, start ups or established businesses as they navigate all areas of running their own business. Book a No-Cost NSW Government Funded Business Connect Session: https://business-connect-register.industry.nsw.gov.au/pages/Advisor4.html?id=34b8bf3a-11aa-ea11-a96a-00155d643177&type=local

To find out more about Julie’s IBNInc Network group: https://independentbusinessnetworkinc.com/
Get in touch with Julie here: https://www.yourbusinesshelper.com.au/contact-us/

We look forward to working and collaborating with her.

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to forget the importance of self-care and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. That’s why our fashion and wellness session was a breath of fresh air.

The session was held in a cozy and intimate setting, with the aroma of freshly brewed tea wafting through the air. The ladies greeted each other with hugs and warm smiles, dressed in fashionable outfits to feel good about themselves.

They did some knitting together. While some of the women were experienced knitters, others were trying it for the first time. But regardless of their skill level, everyone was happy to learn and create something together. As they knitted, they chit-chatted about positive things in their lives, from new opportunities to exciting travel plans.

They continued to talk while knitting and enjoying tea and snacks, exchanging ideas and uplifting each other with compliments and kind words. The atmosphere was relaxed, and everyone felt comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts and experiences.

As the women left the session, they felt rejuvenated and inspired. They had taken a break from their busy lives to focus on self-care, connect with others, and uplift each other. It was a reminder that taking care of oneself is not only important but also fun and rewarding.

If you would like to join one of our sessions, where you will receive personalised attention as we value quality over quantity, email us at empoweredbwb@gmail.com or editor@sakhi.online.

What is Happiness?

By Tiya Gorain

Happiness is an elusive emotion that has been the subject of countless studies and debates throughout human history. It is a subjective and complex emotion that is difficult to define in a singular way. It can mean different things to different people and can be influenced by various factors such as personal experiences, culture, upbringing, and values. Generally, happiness is a positive emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, contentment, and satisfaction.

For some individuals, happiness is about finding inner peace and tranquility. This can involve practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and yoga, which help them to cultivate a sense of calm and stillness within themselves. By finding inner peace, they are able to live in the present moment, appreciate the beauty of life, and let go of stress and worries.

Others may view happiness as living life to their best potential. This involves setting personal goals, pursuing passions and interests, and constantly striving for self-improvement. This can lead to a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, as they are able to achieve their desired outcomes and live a life that aligns with their values and principles.

Being one’s highest possible self is another aspect of happiness for some people. This means being true to oneself, embracing one’s strengths and weaknesses, and striving for personal growth and development. This can involve developing skills and talents, building positive relationships with others, and contributing to the world in meaningful ways.

Helping others is another important factor in happiness for many individuals. By making a positive impact on the lives of others, they experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This can involve volunteering, donating to charity, or simply showing kindness and compassion to those around them.

Finally, some people view happiness as being able to leave a legacy behind. This involves making a positive impact on the world that will endure beyond their lifetime. This can involve contributing to society in a significant way, such as through philanthropy, activism, or innovation.

In conclusion, happiness is a complex and multifaceted emotion that can mean different things to different people. Whether it involves finding inner peace, living life to one’s best potential, being one’s highest possible self, helping others, or leaving a legacy behind, happiness is ultimately about living a life that aligns with one’s values and brings a sense of fulfillment and contentment. By pursuing happiness in whatever form it takes for each individual, we can all experience a more meaningful and purposeful existence.

Entrepreneurship is an exciting yet challenging journey, and for budding entrepreneurs, it can be a daunting task to navigate the startup landscape. However, a successful entrepreneurs’ summit can help equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, knowledge, and network to help them succeed. Our budding entrepreneurs’ summit, organised in collaboration with India Club and Sakhi magazine, brought together prominent guest speakers, innovative stall holders, and invaluable mentorship opportunities, among other offerings.

The summit aimed to help budding entrepreneurs overcome the common challenges faced during the initial stages of a startup. The event provided a range of opportunities for attendees to learn, connect, and grow. The summit had a diverse range of guest speakers, including successful entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. The speakers shared their experience, insights, and advice on how to navigate the competitive startup industry, secure funding, and build a sustainable business model.

In addition to the keynote speeches, the summit featured stalls showcasing innovative products and services from budding entrepreneurs. The products & services ranged from handmade jewellery, eco-friendly products to henna tattoos. The stalls also provided an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs to network with potential clients and partners.

Another highlight of the summit was the mentorship and advisory opportunities for budding entrepreneurs. There was a team of experienced advisors and mentors helping attendees. They provided invaluable insights and guidance on business strategy, marketing, and scaling.

The summit also provided networking opportunities and attendees could connect with potential clients, partners, and investors. The event was attended by successful entrepreneurs and investors, who shared their insights and offered advice to the budding entrepreneurs.

Overall, the budding entrepreneurs’ summit was a huge success. The event brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, investors, industry experts, and advisors, to provide a comprehensive learning and networking experience for attendees. The summit offered invaluable opportunities for budding entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and connect with potential clients and partners. The event was a testament to the thriving startup ecosystem in Sydney and a great step forward in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

We are pleased to welcome the gorgeous and talented Emma Lisa, who recently joined our platform as a Nutritionist & Wellness Blogger.

“Hello! I’m Emma Lisa, author of the 6 Week Healthy Habits Lab Program! I am also the Women’s Practitioner behind the Eat Nourish Glow Women’s Clinic (https://www.eatnourishglow.com.au/). As a Nutritionist, I am strictly anti-diet, and specialise in nutrient-dense, real food cooking with a focus on low-carb, wholefood, and plant-based recipes. I’m teaching women aged 40+ how to break the diet cycle and find balance again!

If you would like to end the struggle with your plate (and the scale), start with a free 15-minutes chat with me to find your sparkle again. Book here:

https://bit.ly/3lsnfXt ” – Emma Lisa.