Women gathered at Mila Chic Hair Design in Brantford on February 5 for an evening of shopping, socializing, and fundraising in support of Nova Vita, a local organization dedicated to assisting survivors of domestic violence.
The event, hosted by salon owner Kamila Benhabib, aimed to foster community connections while collecting essential donations for women in need.
The Galentine’s Day event featured local vendors, luxury beauty services, and tarot readings, with early attendees receiving exclusive goodie bags. Guests were encouraged to bring deodorant and feminine hygiene products, items in critical shortage at Nova Vita. Benhabib emphasized that the evening was about more than just a night out—it was about supporting women in business and in crisis.
The event took shape as an appreciation night for Mila Chic’s clients, but its purpose extended beyond the salon.
For Benhabib, the gathering was an opportunity to give back to a community that has supported her since she started her business in 2008.
After launching her salon from home, she expanded into commercial spaces, eventually opening her current location two years ago.
The pandemic posed significant challenges, forcing many small businesses to close. Benhabib said she considers herself fortunate that her business survived, but she remains aware that many women continue to struggle in different ways.
COVID-19 also had a devastating impact on survivors of domestic violence, exacerbating isolation and limiting their access to support.
Benhabib noted that many women were trapped in unsafe situations during lockdowns, with shelters experiencing increased demand.
This reality has kept Nova Vita close to her heart as an organization she wants to support. The Brantford-based shelter has been providing emergency housing, counselling, and transitional support services since the early 1980s, working to help individuals and families rebuild their lives after experiencing abuse.
Karen Clinton, an event planner and guest at the fundraiser, described the evening as an opportunity for women to come together and empower one another.
With Valentine's Day approaching, the event provided an alternative for those looking to celebrate friendship and community. She said that beyond the festivities, it was important to create spaces where women could connect and feel supported, whether as business owners, professionals, or individuals seeking a sense of belonging.
The evening unfolded as a mix of entertainment and advocacy, with guests browsing offerings from local businesses, engaging in conversations, and contributing to a cause that affects women across the region.
As donations piled up, the event served as a reminder of the role that small businesses and grassroots efforts play in strengthening community support networks.
Nova Vita continues to expand its programs through government grants and public donations, ensuring that services such as crisis intervention, emergency shelter, and counselling remain available to those in need.
The organization also runs accountability programs for individuals who have caused harm, working to address the broader issue of gender-based violence in the community.
Benhabib said she hopes to make the Galentine’s event an annual tradition, reinforcing the importance of supporting women, not just in moments of crisis, but as a long-term commitment.
With a successful turnout and a growing interest in community-driven initiatives, the event highlighted how local efforts can contribute to meaningful change.
