About Kent Saheli Group

Kent Saheli Group is a creative arts organisation based in Kent, founded by our President, Daya Wanti Kans. Inspired by the challenges faced by isolated women from diverse backgrounds—primarily from the South Asian continent—who were navigating life in the UK with limited language skills, social connections, and growth opportunities, Daya took action.

She initiated regular events featuring dance, music, and social gatherings to promote community and empowerment. The group established 'Saheli Writers,' a platform supported by funding from organisations such as Arts Council England, Kent County Council, and National Lottery Project Grants. This initiative has enabled members to write and publish storybooks and cookbooks, celebrating their creativity and sharing their voices.

 The Kent Saheli Group has a proud history of organising vibrant cultural events across Kent, with a special focus on Gravesend and Dartford. Our team frequently collaborates with creative and charitable organisations, including the Sahara Foundation, Essex Cultural Diversity Project, and The Mentor Ring, to deliver performances, engaging talks, and uplifting wellbeing activities.

A highlight of our year is Teeyan Da Mela, an exclusive women’s outdoor festival that welcomes up to 700 attendees annually. This joyful celebration showcases an array of creative talents, including folk singing and poetry.

At Kent Saheli Group, we believe in meeting and engaging with communities where they gather and feel connected—often at their cultural hubs, such as places of worship. We regularly promote wellbeing through creative expression by delivering presentations, talks, and workshops at Gurdwaras. Our mission is to empower the communities we serve by helping them discover their creative potential. Whether through understanding and producing their own creative performances or projects, or simply using creativity as a form of catharsis, we aim to inspire self-expression and personal growth.

 We are honoured to have contributed to important mental health research initiatives at the University of Kent. Notably, we participated in a study focused on the mental health of Sikh communities in Kent and featured on the podcast Sikh Silences. This podcast delves into the generational and migratory silences surrounding mental health taboos and stigmas.

Additionally, we were involved in the INTERACT project, led by Professor Lisa Dikomitis and Professor Sukhi Shergill, where we shared our perspectives on the mental health support landscape for underserved groups, including the elderly and ethnic minority communities.