Clubwise - May 10, 2003

Every week, we bring you the latest on the UAE's clubs, associations and groups. We choose one each time and profile it, highlighting its purpose and activities.


This week: Sharjah Indian Ladies Association

The Sharjah Indian Ladies Association (SILA) was formed more than 25 years ago. At a time when there were not many social groups for Indian women, SILA was formed and filled in the gap perfectly. Over the years, SILA has bought together Indian women from all walks of life and from different parts of India.

Currently with 60 members, SILA comes across as a small, but close-knit group. Women ranging from 17 to 70 years of age are part of this group. SILA has witnessed a second generation of members, with mothers bringing their daughters to the association. Members include doctors, engineers, accountants, teachers, entrepreneurs and homemakers.

Taking advantage of its multi-cultural membership, SILA provides non-resident Indian women an opportunity to get in touch with their roots and feel culturally connected.

The ladies get together every month for a variety of programmes. Annual events include festive celebrations like Diwali, Holi, Eid, Lohri and Pongal. When the weather permits, SILA members go out for an outdoor excursion. SILA frequently hosts seminars and talks from experts in various fields.

Recent seminars featured discussion on Feng Shui, Money Management and Dental Health. With regular demonstrations such as vegetable carving and yoga exercises, members often go home learning something new. SILA also gives its members an opportunity to flaunt their skills and talents with competitions like cooking and gift-wrapping.

However, SILA is not just about monthly gatherings, promotions and entertainment. It is a meeting ground for likeminded women who seek entertainment as well as education. "SILA provides its members with an opportunity for personal growth and an outlet for their hidden talents," says Jyotsana Nagarkar, president of the association. "It also gives its members a feeling of togetherness and the various benefits of networking." With the group being such a close knit entity, SILA members are sure to get a word of friendly advice if necessary, a shoulder to cry on in times of distress and a bunch of friends who are always ready for a good laugh.

"I joined SILA only seven months ago, but it is already an important part of my life," says Jyoti Singla, a Sharjah-based homemaker. "It is a small, cosy group with plenty of interaction and personal touch. The monthly events are very well organised and highly enjoyable."

SILA also takes its social responsibility very seriously. It started the Radiant School in June 1986 and has been managing the school ever since, under the sponsorship of 'The Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services'. The school is a non-profit institution that provides education at a minimal cost. It has classes till grade 10 for both boys and girls. SILA also actively participates in charity functions and annual carnivals put up by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. Members of the association therefore always get the good feeling that they are contributing towards a good cause.

SILA welcomes women from other nationalities, however, admission to the committee is restricted to Indians only. Members are required to pay an entrance fee and the annual membership charges. Non-members can attend a programme as a paid guest, accompanied by a member.