Sakhi – together we grow & support one another

In the year 2017, the idea of setting Sakhi group cropped in the mind of the present admis of this group, where in the day-to-day routine they met each other, had family get together but they lacked that space where they needed to think about themselves too! There was this ‘me time’ missing in ladies’ life, in specific for the ladies who were not very extrovert, they need some kind of support, motivation and push.

In association with Bharatiya Mandir, this plan was executed by Jyoti Parashar on the idea previously laid out by Aditee Naik. The organizing team also includes Lavanya Komal, Smriti Saini and Nadya Poonawala. This group started with 8-10 ladies and now has around 100.

“One of the ladies that joined the group from the very beginning, was able to cope up with depression as she got a sense of belongingness from this community group and felt connected with them as she has no family in New Zealand,” said Jyoti Parashar.

She rightly added that it is not easy for Indian women to adjust easily to the mainstream culture. There is a huge challenge in bringing up children as they are more inclined to the kiwi culture, and Indian culture is definitely different, thereby the atmosphere that affects the children ultimately affects their parents as well.

Starting by creating a watsapp group in February 2018, to arranging once a month meetings and high tea parties initially, to ambitiously taking this project further where Sakhi’s organizing team wants to meet all the needs of the ladies in the group not just limiting it to entertainment this group looks more than promising. Like organizing classes on Microsoft Excel and enhancing their computer skills on beginners, intermediates, and advance level is one such activities that will be undertaken.

Sakhi group at the moment is looking for volunteers and also admins to run their activities and help the women in the community. The group ladies are already contributing by offering their services to an organization where they help in stitching blankets every Thursday fortnightly, these blankets are further distributed to children in need.

“Stay happy, stay healthy, stay connected and whenever there is a need to talk to someone, please reach out, you need any help we are here! Help is available with us, just ask!” says Jyoti.

For all the updates please follow the Bharatiya Mandir Facebook page where you can find upcoming information, or you can also contact Jyoti Parashar if you are looking to be a part of the Sakhi group. -Vritti Parasher