In The Community

Screenshot The day began with a quiet sense of purpose, the kind that builds not in noise, but in anticipation. Across time zones and borders, screens flickered to life as voices from around the world prepared to take the stage—not on a single platform, but on a global stage where geography held no limits and influence knew no boundaries. In the morning session, Louise Walden-Edwards, SheInspires 2024 winner for Women in Fitness & Well-being, took the helm. Her panel was a masterclass in resilience—not just in body, but in mind, in spirit, in the quiet decisions that shape a life of strength. Pat Wilson’s words carried weight as she spoke of endurance, the power of pushing forward even when no one is watching. Zaynab Jogi built on this, delving into the intersection of&...

In an exciting new chapter for the She Inspires Community, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 edition of the “Taste of Bolton” recipe book. This year’s collection promises to be a gastronomic delight, featuring recipes from both celebrated chefs and our very own community members. At the forefront of this initiative is the esteemed chef and philanthropist, Mike Harrison, whose passion for culinary arts and community engagement makes him the perfect spearhead for this project. Mike Harrison has long been recognised for his innovative approach to cuisine and his dedication to mentoring aspiring chefs. His involvement brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to showcasing diverse culinary traditions. As we embark on this journey, Mike’s leadership ensur...

Food is more than just something we eat—it’s a story, a journey, a connection. It’s the warmth of a family recipe passed down through generations, the hustle of a small kitchen growing into something bigger, the courage to take a passion and turn it into a business. This February, we had the absolute pleasure of bringing these stories to life with Cooking Up Dreams: Stories of Passion, Food, and Business, a special video series by SheInspires in collaboration with Taste of Bolton. Featuring Dipti Modi, Diana Portoro, and Gayle Coleman, three incredible women who have built businesses around their love for food, this series was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit. Each conversation was filled with insights, laughter, and the real, un...

In a world bustling with hustle and bustle, where dreams often take a back seat to the demands of corporate conformity, there shines a beacon of resilience, determination, and authenticity. Meet Diana Potora, a spirited soul whose journey from Romania to England in her early twenties was not just a geographical shift but a profound quest for purpose and meaning. Driven by an insatiable desire to be seen, accepted, and valued, Diana’s journey began humbly, mastering the art of crafting exquisite coffee as a barista. Yet, her heart beat with a fervent passion to uplift and support others, especially women, in their pursuit of greatness. Despite scaling the corporate ladder with success, Diana couldn’t silence the nagging feeling of emptiness, a whisper that urged her to seek more, to ...

Danseuse and author Sohini Roychowdhury has had a busy calendar. She launched her book and wrapped up a performance in Kolkata where she performed alongside Farah Daoud and Kristina Veselinova, who hail from Iraq and from Bulgaria respectively. CT caught up with the Bharatnatyam pro and her collaborators to talk about their creative journey, their love for the form, their thoughts on Shaktism and more. Excerpts from the interview: Sohini, when did you meet Farah and Kristina?I met Farah in Madrid when I moved to the Spanish capital and started my dance school. I met her at a dance workshop; she was a beautiful, determined 16-year-old. I realised she was passionate about Bharatanatyam. She would tell her family that she was stepping out for English tuition since dancing is frowned up...

A group of Bolton’s women leaders got together to discuss how to help aspiring local women and encourage girls to achieve. The Leaders’ Lunch at the Mayor’s Parlour was attended by some of the 22 women identified by the SheInspires Awards’ movement as influential and important to the town. Explained organiser Gulnaz Brennan: “They are women, often at the top of their profession or field, who can make a difference to life in Bolton - and especially to women and girls - with their example and inspiration.” However, she pointed out such women need help and support, too. “It can be a lonely place as a leader. They need a safe space too.” She added: “So, we will be launching The 22 Leaders’ Lounge which will primarily focus on leaders’ wellbeing, support, a safe space and quarte...