In a dazzling celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and cultural pride, the 2025 Women’s Business Expo transformed Auburn Town Hall into a hub of enterprise, empowerment, and Muslim sisterhood on Sunday 4 May 2025.
Organised by the Sisters Wing of the Islamic Circle of Australia and New Zealand (iCAN), this year’s event attracted hundreds of women under the powerful theme: Empower. Elevate. Excel.
The Expo emerged as a landmark platform for Sydney’s Muslim women to showcase talent, build networks, and inspire the next generation of woman leaders.
With 45 bustling stalls, dynamic speakers, and award ceremonies that honoured resilience and innovation, the event was a vivid reminder of the transformative power of women supporting women.
Beyond the stalls, the event drew praise for its focus on leadership and civic engagement. Dr Javeria Saeed, Central President of the Sisters Wing, opened the day with words of gratitude and hope.
“It’s inspiring to see so many women step forward with ambition and purpose,” she said. “This Expo is about more than business. It’s about building a future where every woman feels seen, supported, and empowered.”
Political and civic leaders lent their support to this mission.
MP Lynda Voltz (Auburn) delivered an insightful talk on the importance of business registration, government support schemes, and pathways to formalisation. Her message was clear: women’s economic participation is vital to Australia’s prosperity.
Dr Betty Green, Councillor from Liverpool, echoed this sentiment. “This event is not just about business—it’s about transformation. Women lifting other women, building futures, and reshaping communities.”
Attendees included representatives from NSW Parliament, Islamic Relief Australia, Cultural Diversity Network Inc (CDNI), Gaza Australian Program (GAP), and the Australasian Muslim Times AMUST —highlighting the growing recognition of Muslim women’s contributions to Australia’s social and economic landscape.
A highlight of the afternoon was the Awards Ceremony, which celebrated Muslim women entrepreneurs making meaningful change.
Led by NSW State President Sister Rabia Saeed, the awards recognised women as Emerging Business Leader, Community Impact Award, and Young Entrepreneur Rising Star.
“We believe in celebrating not just success, but the spirit of resilience and service,” Sister Rabia noted.
For recipients, the moment was deeply personal. Samina, one of the winners, shared, “This is not just my win; it is the victory of every woman with a dream.”
Another awardee, Shafaq, founder of social media platform Pehchan TV, emphasised the link between financial independence and women’s safety. “When women control their own resources, they gain the power to make safer, more dignified choices.”
Mehar Ahmed from AMUST reflected on the broader impact: “Events like this spotlight the rise of Muslim women in business—not only as stallholders but as leaders shaping our collective future.”
The final portion of the Expo focused on education and empowerment through a series of expert-led training sessions.
Dr Lina Joudah’s keynote talk, “Turning Dreams into Reality,” offered a roadmap to business setup, while this author as an academic from the University of Sydney guided attendees through digital marketing strategies.
Financial literacy was tackled by Sister Syrah, who introduced women to grants, micro-loans, and zakat-based support systems.
The sessions, described as “transformative” by participants, gave practical knowledge to help women navigate the often complex world of business development.
“I’ve had ideas for years,” said Naziha, an App developer. “Today, I finally feel like I have the network—and the confidence—to move forward.”
As the event drew to a close, Saima Shams, State Secretary of iCAN, offered heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, organisers, and participants who made the Expo a reality.
“When women come together with purpose and passion, barriers fall and possibilities multiply,” she said.
At the heart of the Expo was a vibrant marketplace, where 45 stalls—each run by a woman-led venture—brought together business, culture, and creativity.
The scents of aromatic biryani and traditional haleem welcomed visitors, while sweet treats from home-based bakers quickly disappeared from display.
Homemade chutneys and refreshing drinks completed a sensory journey through community flavours.
The cultural richness continued with stalls offering intricate henna art, modest fashion, jewellery, and decor items.
Women browsed Islamic literature, children’s books, and memoirs, while others engaged with budding authors at a booth dedicated to book publishing.
Art classes, coaching services, and media platforms like AMUST and iCAN’s own stall added layers of learning and creative engagement.
The Women’s Business Expo 2025 was more than a gathering—it was a movement. A vibrant, living demonstration of what happens when women are given space to lead, create, and rise together.
With plans already forming for future initiatives, one thing is clear: the momentum built here will continue to empower, elevate, and excel. #
Shafaq, Founder APWA and Pechchan TV alongwith other iCan members.
Samina while reciving her award for an inspiring enterpreneur.
Dr. Betty Green , Councillor Liverpool alongwith other guests at the Women’s Business Expo.
Attendees on the Day of Women’s Business Expo.
Speakers and Guests of the Women’s Business Expo.
An inspiring woman Enterpreneur.
MP Lynda Voltz addresses the audience.
Uzma Aleem addresses the audience.
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