The Yardley London presents 4th Edition of Filmfare Middle East Most Influential Women 2025, celebrated the unstoppable force that is womanhood, on 25th February at Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts. From trailblazers who redefine industries to changemakers who inspire generations – this night was all about power, passion, and perseverance.
The stunning Sharvari added star power and glamour to the exciting evening. Touted to be the Next Big Thing, the Bollywood star not only captivated the audience with her presence but also celebrated a special moment as the March cover was unveiled with her as the Cover-Star. The powerhouse performer was also honored with “Breakthrough Artist of the Year” by Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, who was a part of the esteemed panel of judges.
The esteemed panel of judges also included global beauty icon Vimi Joshi, Pro Chancellor of Symbiosis International University Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Talent Management arm of Creative Media Authority Ms. Aysha AlJneibi, and Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District Ms. Khadijah Al Bastaki whose keen insights helped crown the night’s winners.
Ms. Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, Editor-in-Chief of FFME, welcomed the crowd with a passionate speech on the celebration of women power, as did Mr Anis Sajan who took to the stage to award a winner. Dr Sana Sajan’s empowering speech on encouraging women’s financial independence had everyone cheering for the trailblazer!
Mr. Rizwan Sajan who addressed the esteemed gathering and spoke about the inspiring women in his life as well as supporting women as he revealed that women made up for a higher per cent of the workforce in Danube Group.
The evening celebrated women achievers, recognizing their remarkable contributions to society and honoring their achievements across various categories from several industries and fields from arts and culture to entertainment and business to fashion!
Presenting the Stellar list of Awardees!
Outstanding Contribution in Arts, Culture, and Literature
Nadine Chammas (Author and Founder of The Life Director)
Felicitated by – Mr. Anis Sajan (Vice Chairman – Danube Group)
Young Achiever of the Year
Zuleikha Sayani (Licensed Psychologist & Head of Clinical Services at Mintea, Founder of Asma Wellbeing & Mental Health Advocate)
Felicitated by – Mr. Shabu Abdul Majeed (Director Global Operations, Lulu Group International)
Outstanding Contribution to Academic Excellence
Alveena Abrar (Educational Consultant and AI curriculum developer)
Felicitated by – Zenofar Fathima (CEO of Zen Film Productions)
Restaurateur of the Year
Dhwani Maheshwari (Founder of Dip Dash Restaurant & Café)
Felicitated by – Ms. Aakanksha Naval-Shetye (Editor-in-Chief – Filmfare Middle East)
Excellence in Hair, Beauty, and Makeup
Lavanya Vikram (Founder – Blush N Curls)
Felicitated by – Ms. Vimi Joshi (Global Celebrity and Fashion Makeup Artist)
RJ of the Year
Shruti Chhangani (Radio Presenter – RADIO 4)
Felicitated by – Mr. Kanwal Singh (Business Head – Filmfare Middle East)
Outstanding Contribution to Entertainment
Nimi Mehta (Media Personality, TV Host, MC, and Founder of SPKR)
Excellence in Sports
Esha Oza (Captain UAE Women’s Cricket Team)
Felicitated by – Lael Amin (Assistant Director of Sales – Lapita Hotel)
Philanthropist of the Year
Meera Gandhi (CEO and Founder of The Giving Back Foundation)
Felicitated by – Dr. Sana Sajan (Director – Danube Group)
Businesswoman of the Year
Halima Jumani (CEO of Kibsons)
Felicitated by – Mr. Priyadarshee Panigrahi (Senior General Manager – Wipro Yardley)
Excellence in Health and Wellness
Dr. Maria Karakoulaki (Founder of Gyneco)
Felicitated by – Sushma Sharma (Business Head – Kaya Clinic)
Jewellery Designer of the Year
Pavit Gujral (CEO & Head Designer – Pavit Gujral Designs)
Felicitated by – Dr. Sana Sajan (Director – Danube Group)
Outstanding Achievement in Real Estate
Cathy Ninen (Founder AND CEO Forte Realty Real Estate LLC And Transmarine Logistics)
Felicitated by – Vimi Joshi (Global Celebrity and Fashion Makeup Artist)
Excellence in Events/Public Relation
Shraddha Barot-Amariei (Group CEO & Founder, White Label Media, Group)
Felicitated by – Mr. Arif Bhaldhar (GM PR – Danube Group)
Fashion Designer of the Year
Taira Adil (Founder & CEO – TAIRA)
Felicitated by – Sowmya Menon (Malayalam Actor)
Influencer of the Year
Sneha Rebecca (Social Media Influencer)
Felicitated by – Mr. Vivek Janardanan (Sale head – Wipro Yardley)
A special award was presented to Ms. Munira Rahman, CMO of Al Haramain Perfumes as “Special Recognition for Contribution in the World of Fragrance” by Mr. Rizwan Sajan.
Hosted by emcee RJ Faizan, the grand evening wrapped up on a heartfelt note as Mr. Kanwal Singh, Business Head of Filmfare Middle East, delivered a warm and gracious thank-you note, leaving the audience with smiles and memories to cherish!
Sponsors and Partners
Title Partner – Yardley London MENA
Other Partners
Al Haramain Perfumes
Kaya Skin Clinic
The Giving Back Foundation
Forte Realty
Newspaper Partner – Khaleej Times
Radio Partners – Radio 4, Channel 4
Venue Partner – Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts
Trophy Partner – Crystal Corp
Entertainment Partner – GAE Events
(Contributed by Wajeeha Syed)