An Empowering Celebration of Women’s Triumphs and the Fight Against Domestic Abuse on International Women’s Day 2025
Returning on 8th March 2025, The Fashion Brunch—founded by Creative Director Anisha Vasani—continues its tradition of celebrating women who have overcome adversity. Unlike conventional fashion shows and beauty pageants, this empowering event brings together women and encourages them to embrace their individuality with confidence.
This year, The Fashion Brunch aligns with the International Women’s Day 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action,” showcasing a powerful runway where nine courageous women—survivors of domestic violence, as well as mental, sexual, and emotional abuse—will take centre stage. Wearing breath-taking designs by Nikaza Asian Couture and House of Rani, and adorned with exquisite jewellery from Meraki Jewels and Jewels by MK, with glamorous hair and Make-Up Ambreen and her team. These remarkable women will not only walk the catwalk but also share their deeply personal stories of struggle, perseverance, and triumph.
The South Asian community continues to grapple with cultural stigma, shame, and fear of social isolation, which often prevents women from speaking out about abuse. A 2021 study found that 48% of South Asian respondents had experienced physical abuse, with women disproportionately affected. However, these figures likely underestimate the true scale of domestic violence within the community. Breaking the silence and fostering open conversations are essential steps in creating a supportive space where survivors feel empowered to seek help and reclaim their lives.
At the heart of this movement and the Fashion Brunch is the “Sisters of Strength – United to End Abuse” campaign, where these nine women stand as symbols of resilience and hope. Sharing their experiences of psychological, financial, mental, verbal, emotional, or sexual abuse, their collective voice sends a powerful message: no woman should suffer in silence.
“Sisters of Strength required numerous voices to come together as a collective to show that sisterhood can combat gender-based domestic violence and abuse.”
— Nina Aouilk, survivor and spokesperson for the non-profit charity ‘End Honour Killings’
Nina Aouilk
Nina Aouilk, known as London’s Life Coach, is a survivor of forced marriage and an attempted honour killing. Her traumatic experiences have driven her to become a powerful advocate for gender-based violence awareness. Through her viral videos, which have garnered millions of views, Nina spreads the message of love, empowering individuals to live authentically and free from fear. Today, Nina is a chat show host for Crime Investigation UK and a highly sought-after mindset life coach for UFC MMA fighters and boxers. She is also an award-winning activist, motivational speaker, and workshop trainer, using her platform to inspire and support those facing abuse.
Faiza Kauser Mughal
Faiza endured two decades of an abusive marriage, where physical violence began just a week after her wedding, though the emotional manipulation had started even earlier. Her marriage ended in a devastating betrayal when her ex-husband had an affair with her younger sister and took their children, cutting off all contact. Despite exhausting every possible avenue to reunite with her boys, she faced repeated disappointment and heartbreak. Now, having reclaimed her strength and voice, Faiza is dedicated to advocating for women and girls. As a trustee and operations manager for Educate Not Mutilate, she works to raise awareness about FGM through education in schools, universities, hospitals, social services, and border forces.
Misha Patel
Misha Patel’s journey began with overcoming narcissistic abuse, and today she uses her pain to raise awareness about the invisible scars left by psychological abuse in the South Asian community. Her personal experience has driven her to support other women healing from abusive relationships and toxic family dynamics. As a Somatic Trauma-Informed Coach and Narcissistic Abuse Specialist, Misha helps individuals reclaim their self-worth, confidence, and emotional freedom. She offers workshops and coaching to empower women to heal and grow beyond their past trauma, enabling them to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Jo Varsani
Jo Varsani married at a young age to a gambling addict, which led her to experience severe financial abuse, leaving her burdened with £30,000 in debt. Despite these struggles, Jo found the strength to rebuild her life and is now a thriving entrepreneur. As the Operations Director of The Fleet Safety Systems (FSS) Group, a successful business she co-founded, Jo has proven that resilience and perseverance can turn adversity into success. She has expanded her entrepreneurial journey into childcare and elderly care, inspiring others through her work and mentorship to break free from their struggles and create their own successful paths.
Sandy Phgura
Sandy Phgura endured 19 years in a narcissistic marriage, trapped in a cycle of psychological and verbal abuse that eroded her sense of self. For years, Sandy felt like a shadow of herself, consumed by anxiety and isolation. But she found the courage to leave, for the sake of her young son, refusing to let him grow up thinking that abuse was normal. Now, as a successful Spiritual Mindset Coach and Intuitive Energy Healer, Sandy is dedicated to helping other women break free from emotional and mental suffering. Through her 12-week Self-Love & Confidence Program, she empowers women to rediscover their inner strength, reclaim their confidence, and step into their true power.
Rupi Dhillon
Rupi Dhillon’s life was marked by over 27 years of domestic violence, emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse. In her first two marriages, she was made to feel unworthy, constantly silenced, and forced to conform to someone else’s rules. However, at 51, she began a new chapter with the support of a mentor and the right people, embarking on a healing journey. Today, Rupi is an Empowerment and Spiritual Trauma Guide, and an NLP Coach. She uses her personal experience to help South Asian women break free from the cultural conditioning, self-doubt, and abusive relationships that hold them back. Through her 9-week program, Aattam, she empowers women to reclaim their voices and embrace transformative new beginnings. Rupi’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the possibility of healing and transformation.
Manjana Dadi
Manjana Dadi emerged from the depths of an extremely abusive relationship, facing a pivotal moment where she chose to heal and rebuild her life. Through deep inner work and self-discovery, she not only regained her strength but also found true love with a partner who values and supports her. Her journey of resilience led her to her true calling—helping others break free from past trauma, rebuild confidence, and embrace the love and happiness they deserve. Now, as a relationship coach and facilitator of women’s healing circles and events, Manjana is dedicated to guiding others on their path to healing and empowerment.
Dr Celest Aoulik Jaiyeola
Dr. Celeste, a resilience-driven individual, empowers people to overcome self-doubt and build unshakable confidence through both her dentistry and confidence coaching. Growing up in a home marked by domestic violence, she turned her past into a mission—helping others reclaim their self-worth and live authentically. As a dentist, keynote speaker, confidence coach, and author, Dr. Celeste merges science and self-empowerment to transform lives. She is also the co-founder of EndHonourKillings.org, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness and eradicating honour-based violence. Through her work, she continues to inspire and uplift individuals, proving that resilience and self-belief can break any cycle of adversity.
Sharan Dhillon
Sharan is a strong, independent woman who, after enduring a toxic relationship filled with mental and physical abuse, made the courageous decision to start a new life for herself and her two children. Driven by unwavering determination, she founded her business, creating the world’s fastest drying makeup brushes, turning adversity into opportunity. Through this venture, she demonstrates that setbacks can become setups for comebacks. As an advocate for women’s empowerment, Sharan Dhillon is dedicated to uplifting and inspiring women navigating their own struggles. Through her products, she aims to help women discover their self-worth, gain confidence, and boldly pursue their aspirations. She envisions a supportive community where women rise together, embrace their strength, and transform pain into purpose, creating a future filled with possibilities.
This year’s charity partner is KindheART, a remarkable organisation run by five dedicated female volunteers. Since its inception in 2017, KindheART has positively impacted the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged women and children across the UK, Kenya, and India.
“We’re a small charity trying to make a big difference. Over 80% of our work is with vulnerable and orphaned children and young women who are from the slums and the streets, trafficked or have been abandoned and suffered abuse. We are very proud to be Supporting Charity of The Fashion Brunch this year as their chosen charity for such a prestigious annual event.”
— Alka Shah, Chair & Founder of KindheART.
Now in its sixth year, The Fashion Brunch has become an annual celebration of women’s empowerment, uniting individuals from all backgrounds in a powerful display of recognition, solidarity, and upliftment.
“International Women’s Day is a celebration of strength, resilience, and empowerment. As the Creative Director of The Fashion Brunch—an event I have curated for the past six years—it’s my honour to champion the incredible journey of nine courageous women who are survivors of abuse. Through this event, we aim to showcase their beauty, grace, and unwavering spirit, highlighting their inspiring stories of survival and hope. It’s more than just a fashion event; it’s a platform to uplift and celebrate the indomitable spirit of women everywhere. I am immensely proud to witness the growth of The Fashion Brunch, knowing that we’ve created a platform where 300 women will gather to celebrate their worth.”
— Anisha Vasani, Founder and Creative Director
A Powerhouse Panel of Inspirational Women
Alongside the empowering catwalk, The Fashion Brunch will feature an extraordinary line-up of panel and Keynote speakers, bringing together some of the most influential women across various industries.
Among the remarkable names joining the panel are:
- Renowned TV and Theatre actress – Laila Zaidi
- Award winning Radio and TV broadcaster – Shay Grewal
- Trailblazer as a Football Coach and Developer – Manisha Tailor MBE
- Sports & Entertainment presenter – Alisha Singh
- TV & Radio Presenter – Nikita Kanda
- Successful entrepreneur and 2024 BBC Apprentice candiate – Raj Chohan
- Entrepreneur and inspirational speaker – Sophia K Choudry
- County Councillor- Reena Ranger OBE
- Author, Artist & Poet – Ekta Bajaj
- Labour Councillor- – Ishma Moeen
Each of these incredible women will share their personal journeys, highlighting the challenges they have faced and the successes they have achieved—across entertainment, business, media, and sports—all within the context of the IWD 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality.”
Luxurist is thrilled to announce our collaboration with The Fashion Brunch as their media partner. As a leading digital platform dedicated to showcasing the elegance and richness of South Asian luxury, we are committed to bridging tradition and modernity, providing a unique space that highlights both inclusivity and diversity.
Set at the Courtyard by Marriott in London, this highly anticipated event promises to be a day filled with insightful discussions, empowerment, and inspiration.
The Fashion Brunch is more than just a gathering—it’s a powerful platform that brings women from all walks of life together to learn, inspire, and celebrate resilience and success. Don’t miss the highlights of this sold out event on Instagram @thefashion.brunch where industry leaders unite to champion inclusivity and empowerment.
Photography and videography by OMJ
Creative Direction and Styling by Anisha Vasani
Outfits by House of Rani
Jewellery by Jewels by MK
Hair and Makeup by Ambreen and Team
Video Interviews by Parmaveer
Décor by Supreme Events
Shoot Assistants – Ravika Sabh and Sareena Verma
Venue: Courtyard by Mariott
