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Fashion lovers from across the kingdom can now snap up an array of expensive branded attire and accessories for a bargain at the Aisha Yateem Family Counselling Centre’s Grand Designer Sale.
The fundraising event, which started on April 19, is being organised by the big-hearted Bahrain Young Ladies’ Association to help support abused women across the kingdom.
“We are an NGO and we have no government support,” said Shirley Yateem, wife of well-known businessman Ali Husain Yateem.
She is also one of the 14 members of the fundraising committee that helps the Aisha Yateem Family Counselling Centre raise funds in support of women empowerment and aid those undergoing abuse.
The committee also includes Mary and Scheherazade Yateem, daughters of Aisha Yateem who was the founder of the first Women’s club – the Bahrain Young Ladies’ Association - formed in 1955 after her return from studying in Cambridge in the UK. After she passed away, the Yateem family built the beautiful Aisha Yateem Family Counselling Centre in Hamad Town as a tribute for all that she has done and to carry on her vision of empowering women.
“We raise funds to pay for a lawyer to let the women know their rights, to pay a doctor if they are badly hurt, a social worker, psychiatrist, psychologist and so forth,” added Shirley. “We built the centre 12 years ago and we raise money for the helpline, pay the wages of all the staff there, the electricity, security and so on.
“We have these designer brand sales. We also hold monthly breakfasts, which are extremely popular. They aim to raise funds and awareness about women’s abuse.
“We also hope to raise awareness about the centre.”
The Grand Designer Sale, which used to be held twice a year before Covid-19, features a range of luxury and regular brands such as Chloe, Max Mara, Dior, Gucci and more for women, men and children.
“We have beautiful bags and dresses; some still new with their tags on,” she said.
“There is an amazing selection of shoes for all sizes, elegant abayas, evening dresses, blouses, skirts and even some household items.
“We have designer dresses and evening gowns starting from BD3 to BD35. We also have shoes that are nearly new, as we only accept things that are in good condition, going for BD3 to BD5. Designer shoes are priced between BD20 and BD30. Every amount raised will help and there is such beautiful stuff to wear that is perfect for Eid, around the corner.”
According to Shirley, shoppers will feel at ease going through items with Jerry Rosaldes, their saleslady who has been with them for years, aiding them every step of the way. They are also on Instagram @aycc.boutique, with all their items on sale there too.
Shirley added that the centre also offers marriage counselling to help young and older couples resolve their problems.
“We have had great success with this,” she explained. “We help couples to communicate better and resolve their problems without judgement and it is a very discreet service. I think this is a service that is needed now, especially after the stress of Covid-19.”
Due to popular demand, the sale will run indefinitely and it is open to all from 8.30am to 2pm on Sunday, 9am to 2pm from Monday to Thursday, closed on Friday and from 10am to 1pm on Saturday.
For details, contact 66900482 or WhatsApp 36267460.
