On October 27, 2013, five inspired Saheli volunteers organized an event called “Mehendi” at the American Legion Hall in Burlington, MA. The sold–out women and young girls’ event was aimed at spreading the word about Saheli among other South Asian groups, particularly among the Pakistani, Nepali and South Asian Muslim communities. It was a fun-filled event with music, Bhangra dancing, excellent South Asian food, and a scarf demonstration. There were South Asian women vendors who sold clothes and jewelry at the event. The evening was rounded off with women and young girls having their hands decorated with intricate Mehendi designs. The engaged conversations and laughter filled the hall throughout the evening. A short presentation on Saheli and ways to get involved with it allowed the participants to learn about resources that Saheli provides. Several participants were added to the volunteer list: this is exactly what Saheli had hoped for in its effort to engage Muslim women, as well as increase volunteers from our diverse South Asian diaspora. Hats off to Durraiya, Farhat, Luluah, Masooma, and Panna for pulling off a fantastic event!
