30 Days 30 Stories: Celebrating Women’s Power & Creativity

Dubai, UAE — October 3, 2025: The UAE recently hosted an extraordinary celebration of women, creativity, and empowerment as Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with WKND Magazine and Khaleej Times, and hosted by Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, presented the remarkable initiative “30 Days 30 Stories.” The event highlighted the voices, resilience, and achievements of women, combining art, culture, and storytelling into an unforgettable experience.

Conceived by Shiba Khan, Founder and Director of Funun Arts Group, 30 Days 30 Stories began as an online storytelling campaign, sharing the journeys of 30 inspiring women over 30 days. The concept quickly evolved into one of the UAE’s most talked-about celebrations of womanhood, creativity, and accomplishment. Over a period of six months, the Funun Arts team carefully selected 30 exceptional women whose stories exemplify courage, compassion, leadership, and innovation.

The initiative culminated in a grand award ceremony, where these 30 women, representing diverse fields such as art, education, entrepreneurship, community leadership, and social change, were recognized for their contributions to society. The event was attended by distinguished dignitaries and cultural icons, including H.E. Yaqoob Al Ali, H.E. Laila Rahhal El Atfani, Honorable Sultana Farouq Kazim, Dr. Waldo Concepcion, Abdul Jabar Weiss, Bassam Nader, Naimmudin Syed Ahmed, Dr. Mariam Shaikh, Anjani Prakash Laitu, Peter Gressman, Dr. Nina Heydemann, Ms. Daisy Paul, Ms. Vandana Marwaha, among others from the UAE’s arts and cultural community.

The evening featured a powerful story exhibition that brought each narrative to life through striking visuals and compelling words. Each story reflected determination, courage, and purpose, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees. The event was designed as a creative and emotional experience, blending traditional Arabic music with the joyful participation of children, symbolizing the next generation of dreamers.

Adding to the artistic celebration, Shiba Khan, together with dancer Swarashri Shridhar, presented a live fusion performance, combining visual art and movement to embody empowerment and creativity. Rhytmix Entertainment provided live music, amplifying the energy and emotional depth of the evening. A thought-provoking panel discussion further enriched the event, fostering conversations on leadership, innovation, and the evolving role of women in society.

A major highlight of the night was the surprise launch of Funun Arts Group’s first coffee table book, 30 Days 30 Stories, unveiled by the mother of the Khan Sisters. The book documents the journeys of all 30 women, weaving their experiences into a collective story of resilience and inspiration. It will be placed in school and university libraries, as well as hotel lobbies, ensuring that these remarkable narratives continue to inspire future generations.

“This initiative is more than a project; it is an experience, a reflection of real women and their untold stories,” said Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, Co-Founders and Directors of Funun Arts Group. “Through this book, we hope to share these journeys with the world. Every story is a testament to hope, determination, and the strength of the human spirit.”

In addition to the book, the podcast series 30 Days 30 Stories, produced in collaboration with Chai Shai with Ayesha, has gone live on social media. The series features intimate conversations with the 30 women, sharing their challenges, successes, and personal reflections, creating an authentic space for audiences to connect with these inspiring stories.

The honored awardees included Harjyot Oberoi, Bhumika Maniyar, Kusum Dutta, Meena Kamal, Ayesha Shaik, Ahed Shihab, Dr. Hanane Benkhallouk, Farah Khan, Farah Naz, Fatima Beena, H.E. Halima Al Sayegh, Lara Tabet, Laura Nicli, Lubna Naeem, Mallak Alwesh, Maria Fatene Aouissi, Mehreen Sultana, Monia Sahraoui, Mussarat Yasmin Abid, Professor Eman Abukhousa, Rafah Abdul Razzak, Rooma Eejaz, Sadika Kebbi, Safia Bari, Samar Murad, Shabana Sheikh, Shabnam Nisar Kassam, Swarashri Shridhar, Tasneem Rawat, and Viktoriya Melny.

The Founders expressed gratitude to all supporters and partners, including H.E. Laila Rahhal, Founder of Women Business Circle; Honorable Sultana Faruk Kazim, philanthropist; Ms. Harjyot Oberoi, Head of Marketing, Khaleej Times; Ms. Kusum Dutta, philanthropist; Ms. Meena Kamal, Founder of MRK Contemporary Art Gallery; Ms. Ayesha Shaik, Founder of Chai Shai with Ayesha; Mr. Naimuddin Sayed, Marketing Manager of Ahmed Al Maghribi; Mr. Ayush Gupta, 19Network.pr; Ms. Bhumika Maniyar, Founder of The Green Revolution; and Ms. Parveen Fathi, Founder of Luxe Decor, for their unwavering support. A special note of appreciation was given to Ms. Laura Nicli, General Manager of Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, for her hospitality and professionalism in hosting the event.

Guests at the event shared their reflections, celebrating the strength, resilience, and creativity of women. Meena Kamal said, “It’s an honor to stand alongside these extraordinary women whose passion and perseverance create a lasting impact every day.” Laura Nicli added, “Hosting this event has been a joy. We are proud to provide a platform that amplifies these inspiring stories shaping a better tomorrow.” Harjyot Oberoi Bohra from the media fraternity noted, “This initiative brings powerful stories of transformation to light, showing how women continue to shape society with courage and creativity.” Kusum Dutta commented, “It was an honor to be part of such a celebration of empowerment and achievement.” H.E. Laila Rahhal El Atfani reflected, “Seeing women come together to inspire and uplift each other highlights the unity and progress of our society.”

Funun Arts Group, founded in 2016 by Shiba and Farah Khan, is one of the UAE’s leading art organizations, representing over 3,000 artists from 40 nationalities. Through exhibitions, art marathons, youth programs, and community initiatives, the group promotes creativity, inclusivity, and empowerment. Its entities, including Funun Arts Consultancy, Funun Arts Academy, and Youth Creative Minds Hub, make it one of the region’s most dynamic art collectives.