On Saturday 5th July 2026, history was made by women in sarees on Southend Pier! The Essex Asian Women’s Association (EAWA) hosted the first-ever Women’s Saree Walk to raise vital funds for the Oncology Department at Southend University Hospital.

A vibrant group of women from across Southend and Kent walked the iconic pier proudly flaunting beautiful, colourful sarees. They were received so well by the entire Southend Pier team and the other guests on the pier, who welcomed them with lovely Bollywood music playing on one side, and the beautiful sea on the other. Women of all ages participated in this good cause, and received their medals with samosas and masala tea!

The cause is incredibly close to their hearts, as their own member underwent surgery last year. This walk is our way of giving back to the incredible NHS team who always support them. Following this year’s success, they plan to turn this into an annual awareness event. Next year, they will open registration to the wider community and choose a new charity to support each year.

About EAWA:
EAWA is a Southend-on-Sea based, 100% volunteer-led charity established 20 years ago in 2006. They support women’s well-being, reduce isolation, offer safe spaces for domestic violence victims, and run educational and cultural events. Their dedication to the community culminated in them receiving The King’s Award for Voluntary Service last year (the highest award received for the charity, the MBE equivalent for charities).