Beautiful Ladies is committed to providing a safe and free space for females within the Bangladeshi community. Operating for the past two years, our organisation was born out of a desire to address the mental health challenges faced by ladies in our community during the pandemic.

Before the networking event, on the 10th of February 2024, the Beautiful Ladies admin team organised the ‘Boshontho Uthshob’ (Bengali Spring Festival). Held at the house of an active member, Rubi Akter, the event was a vibrant celebration of culture and camaraderie. Attendees were treated to a delightful array of activities, including a fashion show showcasing traditional attire, humorous jokes that elicited laughter and joy, soul-stirring poetry recitations, and captivating singing performances. The festival served as a precursor to the larger networking event, setting the stage for an atmosphere of warmth, inclusivity, and celebration of the rich cultural heritage shared by all participants.

In a world where societal pressures and personal challenges often weigh heavily on our shoulders, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by emotions like anxiety and sadness. However, the recent networking event organised by Beautiful Ladies founder Misba Ahmed served as a poignant reminder that these feelings are just emotions—they don’t define us, and they certainly don’t have to control us.

Held on 15th February 2024 at the welcoming abode of Ayesha Chowdhury, the event was more than just a gathering—it was a sanctuary where women from various walks of life could come together to support and uplift one another. Jahanara Akter Shimla’s presentation set the tone for an evening of empowerment and camaraderie.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the event was its inclusivity. Women from diverse career backgrounds, including talking therapists, celebrity makeup artists, event organisers, teachers, and small business owners, graced the occasion with their presence. Among the esteemed guests was celebrity MUA Shahiniour Hussain, adding a touch of glamour to the gathering.

Throughout the evening, attendees were treated to an array of performances and talks that touched both the heart and the mind. Singing and dancing performances by children, a poetry recital by a secondary school teacher, and enlightening discussions on mental health by clinical mental health professionals like Nazmin Haque and community activists like Councillor Syeda Choudhury and other community activists offered valuable insights and inspiration.

Central to the event was the acknowledgment of the importance of mental health and the significance of creating a supportive network for women. Misba Ahmed’s vision for Beautiful Ladies extends far beyond networking—it’s about fostering mental well-being, providing empowerment opportunities, and preserving cultural heritage for future generations. By coming together, sharing experiences, and lending a listening ear, these women demonstrated the power of solidarity and compassion.

At its core, the message echoed throughout the event was one of resilience and self-care. Instead of labelling or suppressing their emotions, attendees were encouraged to embrace them fully, understanding that it’s okay not to be okay sometimes. By acknowledging and accepting their feelings, they could diminish their hold and emerge stronger.

As Misba Ahmed aptly puts it, “You are strong, you are brave, and you are not alone.” This sentiment reverberates through the hearts of all who attended the Beautiful Ladies networking event. It serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment, reminding women everywhere to keep going, keep shining, and above all, keep taking care of themselves.

Looking ahead, the Beautiful Ladies group remains committed to its mission of promoting mental well-being, empowering women, and preserving cultural heritage. As they continue to organise events and initiatives, they aim to create a lasting impact on the lives of women in their community and beyond.

In closing, let us remember that our emotions do not define us—they are simply a part of the human experience. By embracing them with awareness and compassion, we can navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience, knowing that we are never alone on this journey.

This article is written by Misba Ahmed, Founder of Beautiful Ladies