On a bright morning in early December, the halls of the Health Promotion Centre (HPC) in Brunei Darussalam buzzed with anticipation. Women from all walks of life gathered for Glow Girl!, an initiative that promises to shine a light on women’s well-being, personal development, and empowerment.
Hosted by The Nurture Project and Girl Up BruGen, with the support of Majlis Belia Brunei (MBB) and HPC, the event was a shining example of resilience, strength and unity.
Brunei has long championed the health and well-being of its people, recognising women’s empowerment as a crucial pillar in building a dynamic and progressive society.
The initiative embodies this vision, creating a dedicated space for women to engage in open discussions, self-care activities, and community-driven initiatives that foster confidence and resilience, making it more than just an event, but as a movement encouraging women to embrace their strength, uplift one another and thrive.
A PLATFORM FOR GROWTH AND LEARNING
At the heart of Glow Girl! lies its mission to educate, inspire and connect. The programme commenced with Navigating Success, a panel discussion featuring influential women from diverse fields. Moderated by the articulate and accomplished Nadia Aji, a dedicated member of the Global Shapers Community BSB, the session delved into the triumphs, struggles, and aspirations of three phenomenal women.
National athlete Farhah Syahirah binti Mohamad Shamrin captivated the audience with her story of dedication, discipline and breaking barriers.
A force to be reckoned with in karate, Farhah balances her academic pursuits in Biomedical Science with the relentless demands of competitive sports.
Her journey – marked by a bronze medal at the 19th Asian Games 2022 in Hangzhou, China, and a silver medal at SUKMA XXI 2024 in Sarawak – demonstrates the power of resilience. She reminded attendees that health goes beyond physical fitness; it is about confidence, self-belief, and shattering societal expectations.
On a different but equally inspiring path, Zara Laila embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation.
A cybersecurity professional pursuing a PhD, Zara also founded Zarala Candles, a premium handmade candle business. Her ability to navigate both the digital and business realms speaks to her versatility and ambition. She emphasised the importance of women carving their own paths, harnessing their skills, and embracing leadership roles across industries.
Meanwhile, Hajah Nora, founder of Cureheart, brought warmth and wisdom to the discussion. As a Marriage Counsellor, Certified Psychological First Aid Practitioner, and Mental Health and Addiction Coach, she has dedicated her life to guiding individuals through life’s most challenging moments.
With experience ranging from working in juvenile centres to supporting survivors of domestic violence, she shared her invaluable insights on the importance of self-care, mental well-being, and emotional resilience.
Her advocacy for holistic health struck a chord with many in the audience, highlighting the importance of seeking support and prioritising mental health.
EQUIPPING WOMEN WITH STRENGTH – INSIDE AND OUT
Beyond the panel session, the initiative offered a powerful demonstration by Panther’s Guild Enterprise, led by the formidable Nor Syariena.
As an internationally recognised self-defence instructor and mental health advocate, Nor Syariena is passionate about equipping women with the tools they need to feel safe, strong, and confident. The Guild’s Champion Women’s Self-Defence Programme has empowered countless women and children, teaching them not only how to protect themselves physically but also how to cultivate mental resilience.
Her session underscored a vital message: self-defence is not just about physical protection, but also about reclaiming control, standing tall and knowing one’s worth.
BUILDING A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
At its core, Glow Girl! is a reflection of the collaborative spirit between two pioneering youth-led organisations: The Nurture Project and Girl Up BruGen.
The Nurture Project, a volunteer initiative dedicated to mental health awareness, has been instrumental in creating safe spaces for young people to engage in meaningful discussions.
Recognising the growing challenges of mental health, the organisation focuses on outreach, education, and peer support, ensuring that young individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to take action.
Meanwhile, Girl Up BruGen stands as a trailblazer in Brunei’s movement towards gender equality. As the first youth-led club dedicated to empowering women, the organisation has actively tackled issues such as gender-based violence and leadership disparities.
From fundraising for the Palestine Relief Fund to advocating against sexual violence through articles in the Bulletin, Girl Up BruGen continues to pave the way for young women to lead, inspire, and create lasting change.
A recent milestone for the club was the Young Wisdom Institute in Kampong Ayer, an interactive programme designed to uplift and educate young girls through engaging activities. Their dedication to fostering leadership and self-confidence among women aligns seamlessly with the ethos of Glow Girl!, making the event a natural extension of their mission.
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO WELL-BEING
No conversation about health and empowerment is complete without addressing holistic well-being. To conclude the day, participants embarked on an exclusive guided tour of the HPC’s Health Gallery.
The immersive experience covered crucial topics such as food security, reproductive health, the importance of exercise, mental health management, nutrition, and smoking cessation. The tour reinforced the message that well-being is multi-faceted, encompassing physical, emotional, and mental health.
As the event drew to a close, the atmosphere was charged with inspiration. Women left with newfound knowledge, strengthened resolve, and a deeper sense of connection with one another.
THE FUTURE OF GLOW GIRL!
Glow Girl! is not just a one-day programme – it is the beginning of a movement that will continue to evolve and grow.
With the support of its dedicated organisers, mentors and community partners, the initiative aims to expand its reach, touching more lives and fostering a culture of empowerment.
As Brunei continues to champion the health and well-being of its women, initiatives like Glow Girl! serve as a strong reflection of the nation’s commitment to progress. When women are empowered, entire communities thrive.
When voices are heard, real change begins. And when women support one another, they truly shine.
With every story shared, every skill learned, and every bond formed, Glow Girl! lights the way towards a future where women in Brunei can stand tall, embrace their strength, and glow – brighter than ever before. – Izah Azahari
