“THESE two phenomenal women are so beautiful inside out. They are my mentors, role models and idols. Ms Sonia Noel empowered and believed in me from the moment we met in 2021 at her Expo 50. She said to me, “I saw myself in you, that passion and drive and you work hard. I know you will get there.” I still hear her voice saying those words on to this day. It was because of her I met the amazing Ms Nisa Walker, and I was honoured to be a part of her grand celebration yesterday.

It was never in my wildest dreams that I would’ve been amongst such wonderful women. I got to meet and greet some of the most down to earth persons and made a few potential customers too.

I hope when I’m in my 50s and 60s, I’m this fine as these two beautiful ladies because they are both rocking their ages.”

This FB post from Farah Ibrahim Azeez reminded me that I am fulfilling my purpose and my DASH will matter meaningfully. I needed my 50th Celebration to be memorable, not just for me hence hosting EXPO 50. The intention was to provide young male and female entrepreneurs a platform to elevate themselves and businesses. They were also given my Confidence Becomes YOU Programme complimentary.

Farah was one of the talented entrepreneurs and hungry to learn and master her craft. I look at the friends and colleagues I have who were willing to support me and Lady Nisa Walker was one of those ladies who was assigned to Farah and Manuella Bell from Bartica. She is always so willing to share her knowledge of the culinary arts. Our children attended  School of the Nation and we met at a parent-teacher meeting. We connected instantly and she is the only parent that I am still connected with. Dillon felt like my son and he calls me auntie Sonia and Marisca felt like her daughter and Marisca calls her auntie Nisa. We support, admire and respect each other. Nisa Walker is beautiful inside and has a heart to serve. She always donates something delicious to my charity events.

I always enjoy chilling at Oasis with a glass of wine or hot chocolate on a rainy day. I have many meetings at Oasis because the ambience caters for many occasions. We also hosted an evening of inspiration with the participants of my personal development programme and we had a blast at Oasis. Celebrating Lady Nisa’s 60th birthday in the Promenade Gardens was an honour. We were decked out in our regency attire, looking as if we were on the cast of the hit series Bridgerton and you can tell from the shared pics. I also had the opportunity to showcase some of my outfits from my new collection. I glanced around, thinking what a wonderful event this was and my eyes focused on Farah.

I am very proud of Farah that Nisa could have entrusted such a significant event to her capable handles. I believe Farah will pay it forward by mentoring someone. She is already inspiring many young people.

Another testimony of the importance of mentorship. We must continue to encourage young entrepreneurs and help them chart their courses. Keisha Phillips from Tower Suites is a woman who gives opportunities to young entrepreneurs.This has allowed the entrepreneurs to extend the Pop up Shop featuring women with small business until April 8. We invite you to pass and also invite your friends and relatives who will be visiting us for Easter.

Let’s continue to do the things to create the world we desire to live in as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey BEYOND THE RUNWAY.