Venkat Raman
Auckland, March 17, 2025
International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 was marked by a vibrant and empowering event held at Heritage Hotel in Auckland Central Business District on March 8, 2025.
Organised by Dhanak Humayun, a socialite popular in social and entertainment circles under her DH Events and Rakshi’s Design banner in association with Kaleidoscope Fashion Events.
The event aimed to celebrate and promote gender equality while recognising the contributions of women in various fields. This year’s theme, ‘Her Rights, Our Future, Right Now,’ emphasised the significance of women’s rights and gender equality as fundamental to a just and prosperous society.
The event brought together a diverse group of attendees, with National MP for Mt Roskill Carlos Cheung and Waikato District Mayor Jacqui Church as the Guests of Honour. Their presence underscored the occasion’s significance and the commitment of local leaders to advancing gender equality. The event was a testament to the collaborative efforts of various organisations and individuals dedicated to empowering women.
About Dhanak Humayun
One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of Ms Humayun, who founded Rakshi’s Design and has earned fame as a prominent advocate for sustainable fashion and women’s empowerment. Her designs are known for their innovative use of recycled materials, reflecting her commitment to environmental sustainability.
Ms Humayun’s work has not only elevated the fashion industry but also provided a platform for models and designers to showcase their talents and support one another.
The event also honoured the models of Rakshi’s Design for their unwavering support and participation in fashion shows. These models have played a crucial role in promoting the brand and its values. Their dedication and hard work were acknowledged with awards presented by MP Mr Cheung and Ms Church. This recognition highlighted the importance of collaboration and mutual support in achieving gender equality.
Ms Humayun donated a part of the proceeds to Shine, a charity dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence. This initiative supported a worthy cause and raised awareness about the importance of supporting vulnerable individuals in the community.
A Global Perspective
International Women’s Day 2025 was celebrated worldwide with the theme ‘Accelerate Action.’
This theme called for increased momentum in addressing systemic barriers and biases faced by women. It emphasised the need for swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality, highlighting the importance of collective action and solidarity. The global celebrations included various events, campaigns, and initiatives aimed at promoting women’s rights and gender equality.
Gender equality is not only a matter of justice but also essential for the prosperity and well-being of societies. When women are empowered and have equal opportunities, they contribute significantly to economic growth, social development, and peace. However, despite the progress made over the years, gender-based violence and discrimination remain persistent issues. Addressing these challenges requires continuous efforts and collaboration from all sectors of society.
Promoting Gender Equality
Ms Humayun said IWD 2025 involved community members, sponsors, and businesses demonstrating the collective effort needed to advance gender equality.
“As we move forward, it is crucial to continue advocating for women’s rights and working towards a future where everyone has equal opportunities and the freedom to thrive. I am grateful to all the sponsors and supporters and a special word of gratitude to my team – Usha Jacobs, Amrita Gaji Sharma, Parwaneih Ali, Andrea Singh, Shree Nig and Anita Keestra,” she said.
