This International Women’s Day (March 8), we’re taking a proud look back at some of the extraordinary women who have graced the covers of Pukaar Magazine – our quarterly sister magazine over the years.
Each one brought her own story of resilience, ambition and impact – and today, they continue to blaze trails, inspire communities and redefine what leadership looks like.
It doesn’t get any more girl power than this.
Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock – A Voice of Strength and Community
On International Women’s Day, Maggie Aderin-Pocock stands as a powerful example of resilience, representation and leadership in science. As an award-winning space scientist, broadcaster on The Sky at Night, and Chancellor of the University of Leicester, she has carved out a space for women – particularly women of colour – in fields where they have historically been underrepresented.
Her journey has not been without obstacles. Growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia and facing doubts about her ambitions, she refused to let barriers define her future. Instead, she channelled her curiosity about space into academic and professional success, becoming a leading voice in astrophysics and science communication. Her story sends a vital message: challenges do not limit potential – they can strengthen it.
Picture credit: Jason Senior
As Chancellor, Dr Aderin-Pocock encourages students to “reach for the stars,” both literally and metaphorically. On International Women’s Day, her story reminds us that women belong in STEM, in leadership, and at the forefront of discovery. By inspiring young people to dream boldly and persist relentlessly, she embodies the spirit of empowerment and possibility that this day celebrates.
Mahalia – Owning Her Narrative
Mahalia Burkmar’s cover story (published October 2016), captured her determination to carve her own path. Fierce, focused and unapologetically authentic, she spoke about the importance of self-belief and resilience in industries where women – particularly women of colour – often have to work twice as hard to be heard.
The singer represents a rare and powerful combination of early achievement, artistic authenticity, and grounded maturity. From signing a record deal at just 13 years old to performing on renowned stages and collaborating with respected artists, her journey defies the conventional expectations placed on young women in the music industry.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
The feature highlighted her raw and soulful vocals, her honest songwriting, and her commitment to staying true to her roots and personal growth, even as her career accelerated rapidly. Rather than simply showcasing fame, the interview focused on her deep connection to her craft and the meaningful experiences that shaped her as both an artist and a young woman. This blend of professional achievement and emotional sincerity made her an inspiring choice for a cover story – especially in a publication that celebrates diversity and the potential of creative voices.
Moreover, Mahalia’s story is not just about success in music, but also about navigating life’s challenges authentically – balancing education with an extraordinary career, drawing inspiration from her family’s artistic background, and approaching her art with emotional honesty. Her journey reflects the broader theme of empowerment: pursuing one’s passions fearlessly while maintaining a strong sense of self – a message especially impactful on International Women’s Day.
Arinder Bhuller – Leadership with Purpose
Arinder Bhullar has built a remarkable career as an award-winning fashion designer, transforming her life from a stable but unfulfilling role in legal publishing into a creative and entrepreneurial success story. Her decision to pursue her passion for fashion – uprooting her family from London to Leicester to start her own business – shows courage, vision and determination that exemplify what many women strive for in pursuing their dreams.
Her fashion house is celebrated for its unique fusion of Eastern and Western design elements, creating sumptuous bespoke bridal gowns and couture that blend cultural influences and appeal to a global audience. This creative synthesis not only reflects her artistic identity, but also highlights her ability to innovate and push boundaries in a competitive industry traditionally dominated by larger fashion capitals.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
Over more than two decades, Arinder has dressed hundreds of brides and high-profile figures, including Bollywood stars like Shabana Azmi, and has even contributed her skills to international film projects – a testament to the far-reaching impact and recognition of her work.
Beyond her craft, Arinder’s cover story, published in spring 2022, is one of passion, resilience and leadership – qualities that resonate strongly on International Women’s Day. By building a respected brand rooted in cultural pride, creative excellence, and entrepreneurial grit, she serves as an inspiring role model for women everywhere who are pursuing their ambitions and redefining success on their own terms.
Grace Richardson – A trailblazing Queen
Grace Richardson’s rise to become Miss England 2025 is a story of resilience, courage, and representation that resonates strongly with the spirit of International Women’s Day. In being crowned the first openly gay woman to ever win the national title, she shattered longstanding barriers and redefined what success and visibility can look like in a space – beauty pageantry -where LGBTQ+ voices have historically been underrepresented.
Her journey wasn’t without struggle. After coming out at age 15, Grace faced significant harassment and bullying at school, which deeply affected her confidence. Yet she persevered, using performance – her lifelong passion – as a foundation to rebuild self-belief and to excel both on stage and in competition.
Picture credit: Alan Strutt
Choosing to be open about her sexuality throughout the Miss England process wasn’t just a personal decision – it was intentional. Grace wanted young people watching to see someone who looks like them and lives authentically, to help others feel seen and confident in who they are. This visibility has already resonated online, with many teens reaching out to share how meaningful it is to see an openly gay Miss England succeed.
Beyond her historic win, Grace’s commitment to charitable work – including fundraising for Beauty with a Purpose and advocacy around sustainability and global water issues – shows that her influence extends beyond the stage. As she prepares to represent England at Miss World 2026, her story continues to inspire a broader message: that women can lead with pride, resilience, and purpose, and that diversity in leadership and representation makes spaces stronger and more inclusive for everyone.
Sam Bailey – A Powerhouse Personality
Our cover story of summer 2015 profiles a mother of three whose life took a remarkable turn when she pursued her passion for singing and went on to win The X Factor in 2013, transforming from an everyday person into a nationally recognised artist. Before her music career, Leicester’s Sam Bailey worked in varied jobs – from painter/decorator to prison officer – demonstrating her work ethic and grounded character long before fame emerged.
Rather than embracing the image of a conventional popstar, she emphasises that she is first and foremost a devoted mother who chased a dream with courage and persistence. Her victory on The X Factor wasn’t just a personal breakthrough; it became a powerful reminder to others – especially women balancing family and aspirations – that it’s never too late to follow your passion.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
Sam’s story highlights her humility and resilience. She openly talks about handling negative press and challenges with humour and strength, turning setbacks into growth. Choosing to define success on her own terms – as someone who continues to perform, create music, and support her family – underscores a message of self-determination and purpose.
Her story celebrates women who break stereotypes: proving that being a mother and a dreamer isn’t limiting – it can be the very foundation of extraordinary achievement. On International Women’s Day, her journey stands as an inspiring example that women can pursue ambition, redefine success, and make meaning from every chapter of life.
Lauren Henry – From Grassroots to Glory
Lauren Henry’s story is a powerful example of grit, resilience and achievement that aligns beautifully with the spirit of International Women’s Day. Growing up with no particular interest in sport at school, she discovered rowing almost by chance at 13 – and what began as a summer activity grew into a lifelong passion that took her all the way to Olympic gold.
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Lauren was part of the women’s quadruple sculls crew that won gold for Great Britain in a historic and thrilling final, marking the first time her country had ever topped the podium in that boat class. Even in that elite moment, she remained humble, emphasising her love for training, her perseverance through injury and the mental strength that helped her reach the pinnacle of her sport.
Picture credit: British Rowing
Beyond the medals, Lauren’s journey resonates because it shows that success doesn’t depend on perfect beginnings or fitting an expected mould – she openly acknowledges she wasn’t the typical rower physically and that she wasn’t great at other sports, yet she kept going and found her strength on the water.
Her commitment to her local club in Leicester and her continued drive for more personal achievements – including ambitions in single sculling and future world titles – reflect a mindset of ambition paired with humility. Lauren’s story highlights that women can rise from grassroots beginnings to global glory through dedication, passion and unshakeable belief – a fitting message for International Women’s Day.
More Than Cover Stars
These women are more than inspiring interviews or striking cover images. They represent ambition, courage and collective progress. They are business leaders, creatives, change makers and role models – and they are still doing amazing things.
Their journeys remind us that International Women’s Day is not just about celebration, but recognition. Recognition of the late nights, the silent battles, the resilience behind the success. Recognition of the women who open doors – and then hold them open for others.
At Pukaar News and Magazine, we are proud to have shared their stories – and even prouder to watch their continued impact unfold.
