Our commercial director and one of the pioneers of The Oldwalls Collection brand, Shakira Obaid, is taking on an extraordinary challenge this International Women’s Day – driving a rickshaw 1,000km across India to raise funds for grassroots charities supporting women and girls, we are super proud to sponsor and are calling on your support too!
As part of the Sisterhood Rickshaw Rally 2025, our board member and most senior female leader, Shakira will join 60 female founders and business leaders, including our incredible group interior designer, Elizabeth Styles and fellow wedding industry leader, Rebecca Chick, founder of Eva Ashley Bridal, as they swap strategy meetings for bumpy roads, all with a bold mission: to raise £350,000 for education, skills training, and maternal health projects in India.
Shakira said: “We’re not just talking about change – we’re driving it, literally! This is about showing what happens when women take the lead, push boundaries, and create real impact. We’re supporting women and girls where it’s needed most while proving to ourselves what’s possible when we step out of our comfort zones. Oh and trust me, this is definitely outside of my zone, I’m not an adventure seeker!”
The rally, which kicks off in Chennai on March 3rd, will see the women navigate treacherous roads, unpredictable weather and chaotic traffic, all in the name of empowering communities.
The route will see the leading ladies take on Chennai to Goa, stopping at key cities along the way including Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Panaji.
Organiser of the challenge and founder of global female empowerment brand, Killing Kittens, Emma Sayle said: “Too many women and girls in India are held back by lack of education, limited opportunities, and preventable health risks. We’re stepping up to make an impact. The funds raised by the Sisterhood Rickshaw Rally will go directly to projects making a real difference on the ground, including:
- Building Safe Classrooms – Constructing weatherproof, functional schools to improve education access for girls and children with disabilities.
- Skills Training for Women – Providing training in nursing, IT, and trade skills to help women achieve financial independence.
- Maternal Health Support – Addressing postpartum anaemia and complications through medical care, nutrition, and vital resources for vulnerable mothers.
The group has already raised over £50,000, and we’re calling on our lovely couples, trusted suppliers and network to help them reach their ambitious £350,000 target.
Donate Directly To Shakira's Fund