Helping Hands, a nonprofit charity with Pakistani women members, recently held a gathering here to celebrate the country's independence and raise funds for needy schoolchildren from the community.

Present at the gathering were Afshan Khokhar, wife of the Pakistan consul general; Rakshanda Puri, the founder of the group; Natasha Memon, wife of the vice consul general of Pakistan; and Farhat Naeem, vice principal of the Pakistan International School-Azizia Jeddah.

The colorful program started with a recitation from the Holy Qur'an, followed by the singing of the national anthem and patriotic songs, a fashion show by the well-known Pakistani brand Nishat Linen, and a cultural show from four provinces of the country.

Shazia Khaleel’s Boutique, Expressions and Ruby Feroza's silver and gold-plated jewelry were also part of the event.

Noor Almas sang the national song "Ye Mera Pakistan Hai" and one from Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan "Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki."

Bintul Hasan hosted the event, with arrangements and performances by Fouzia Fazal, Fouzia Ansari, Mumtaz Rafeeq, Tajbano, Kubra, Kulsum, Almas, Miher, Amara Irfan, Saima Nouman, Khadija Rafeeq, Soana Rafeeq, Mara Fazal, Safa Fazal, Mishal Mithwani, Arooj Tariq, Shareefa, Rizwana Haider, Maria Qaseem, Aamena Iqbal and Moina.

Khokhar praised Puri's efforts and said it was time for all Pakistanis to stand together, forget their differences and work to help those in need. She said it was particularly important for Pakistanis to assist students because education was vital for the country's development.

Puri thanked the women for helping the organization. She said the group was established almost two years ago to assist needy people in the community and students by contributing to their fees.

“The community has done a great job in helping the group over the past two years. This year we opened up the membership, with the permission of the chairperson, so more people could join and contribute to the cause,” she said.

She thanked the members of the group who helped her to organize the event and also provided assistance at the weddings of some Pakistani women.