Jean Pereira and Aditi Menon, both Aquarians, met in college in India and reconnected when Aditi moved to Dubai after living in the US for 15 years. Like many women, they were looking for jobs that offered stability and flexibility to balance work and family life. Feeling the pressure of being a #supermum in today’s society, they understood the importance of support for mothers, especially in a city like Dubai where expatriates struggle with work and family responsibilities.
Utilizing their expertise in event management, Jean and Aditi launched Helpily, a platform to honor and celebrate the community through tailored events. Their inaugural event, ‘Shine & Dine: Honouring our Domestic Heroes’, was a sold-out gala for 150 nannies, showing appreciation for their hard work and providing them with motivation and a sense of belonging. They aim to create a supportive environment for nannies to return to work feeling rejuvenated.
Dubbed as the modern Mary Poppins, nannies like Jenny play a crucial role in supporting families and creating a positive impact. Having help at home is a luxury for many, as it allows parents to focus on their careers and maintain a work-life balance. Helpily’s initiative recognizes the sacrifices nannies make by being away from their families to care for others, showing appreciation for their dedication and hard work.
At a recent event organized by Helpily, nannies enjoyed an evening filled with food, music, and dance, providing them with time to relax and have fun. The initiative was promoted through social media and word of mouth, with collaboration from influential individuals like Helen Farmer to amplify the message. Employers went the extra mile to pamper their nannies, showcasing the love and respect they have for them.
Looking ahead, Jean and Aditi plan to organize more events for the community, aiming to make nannies feel special and valued. They hope to expand their reach by organizing outdoor activities, visiting residential communities, and partnering with companies for corporate social responsibility initiatives. They also plan to offer upskilling courses and training opportunities to enhance the skills of nannies and provide them with valuable tools for personal and professional development.
In conclusion, Helpily’s initiative aims to create a supportive and empowering environment for nannies in Dubai, recognizing their invaluable contribution to families and society. By organizing events and providing opportunities for upskilling, Jean and Aditi are working towards creating a community that appreciates and celebrates the hard work and dedication of domestic heroes. With a vision for growth and collaboration, Helpily is set to make a positive impact on the lives of nannies and families in Dubai.
