A new women’s leadership network has been launched in West Yorkshire with a mission to empower women, break barriers and build leaders. The Diverse Women’s Network (DaWN), founded by Farkhanda Hussain-Butt, Nasreen Karim and Raheela Khan, officially launched at Impact Hub Yorkshire, bringing together professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders from across the region.
The launch coincided with Diwali, symbolising the network’s vision of illumination, inspiration and collective progress. More than 100 guests attended the inaugural event, which organisers described as “the beginning of a movement” designed to create inclusive spaces for women to connect, share experiences and build confidence in leadership.
Image: Anna Alarie.
Mandy Ridyard, Business Advisor to the Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin, delivered the keynote address, emphasising the economic value of women’s leadership. “Women are the backbone of our economy, and when we support them to lead, innovate and thrive, we strengthen entire communities. DaWN is exactly the kind of initiative that helps turn ambition into impact,” she said.
A discussion panel hosted by diversity specialist Farrah Qureshi explored the realities of entrepreneurship and resilience. Panellists Safeena Khan, founder of Florent Florist; Tazeem Sawaiz, award-winning chef and founder of Taaza Kitchen; and Aysha Nazir, founder of Beauty Dreams and Fashion, shared personal insights on navigating business challenges while staying true to purpose and community values. “Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but it’s empowering when you have a network that understands your challenges,” said Safeena Khan. “DaWN gives women a space to be seen, supported and celebrated that’s what true empowerment looks like.”
Tazeem Sawaiz added: “As women, we often juggle many roles, but when we come together, we realise we’re stronger than we think. DaWN brings that strength to life; it’s a reminder that success is even sweeter when shared.”
Image: Anna Alarie.
In her closing reflections, Fatima Khan-Shah, Inclusive Growth Champion at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, said: “The closing of the DaWN launch felt like the opening of something powerful, a shared movement of women lifting each other up, driving equity and shaping a more inclusive future for all.”
Co-founder Farkhanda Hussain-Butt described the response as “incredible,” adding that the network would prioritise mentorship and skills-sharing across sectors. “From idea to reality, this launch has shown how powerful women can be when they come together. DaWN is more than a network; it’s a catalyst for collaboration and leadership.”
Nasreen Karim said the organisation would build on the momentum with a series of workshops and leadership sessions in 2026. “Our aim is to create meaningful spaces where women can connect, grow and lead with confidence. The energy we’ve seen so far tells us this is only the beginning.”
The founders said DaWN will work closely with local authorities, education institutions and small-business networks to support women’s leadership development and increase visibility in decision-making spaces. The network is registered as a Community Interest Company (CIC), ensuring its programmes remain community-focused and accessible.
