There are moments in life that feel bigger than yourself, where the energy in the room is electric, the conversation meaningful, and the presence of others reminds you why you do the work you do. An afternoon during Ramadan at Darjeeling Express was one of those moments.

I had the honour of being invited to a special gathering hosted by Asma Khan, one of the most visionary women I know. Asma is not only an award-winning chef and restaurateur, but a trailblazer who has built her success on the belief that lifting others as you rise is not just a choice it’s a responsibility. Her all-women kitchen team, her commitment to feeding the vulnerable during Ramadan, and her deep sense of purpose make Darjeeling Express more than a restaurant. It is a space of solidarity, storytelling, and sisterhood.

What made the afternoon even more remarkable was the presence of Their Majesties, The King and Queen. In a quiet yet powerful show of support, they helped prepare iftar parcels, joined us in packing dates, and spent time engaging with Muslim women leaders and changemakers from across the UK. It was a rare moment of recognition, of our communities, our contributions, and our ongoing commitment to creating impact from the grassroots up.

The spotlight was on all of us: the women who have quietly and consistently built platforms, led initiatives, and nurtured movements. And it was made possible by a woman who knows how to use her platform to create space for others.

That afternoon deeply resonated with me. As someone who has spent over a decade building platforms to amplify and support Muslim women and underserved communities—through initiatives like Muslim Women Founders, Muslim Women Talk Ramadan, and my leadership at BCBN—this was a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how much further we can go.

Many don’t realise that I’ve led BCBN largely on my own, behind the scenes, with the support of committed partners who believe in a shared vision: that real change starts at the margins and grows through collaboration.

Our gathering at Darjeeling Express reminded me of what’s possible when we come together—not just for visibility, but for meaningful presence. When our stories, service, and leadership are not sidelined—but placed firmly at the centre.

I left feeling inspired—not by the grandeur of royalty, but by the power of women who create, nourish, and lead with intention.

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