Negri Firman PR & Communication is delighted to announce its collaboration with Kulsum Shadab Wahab to manage Public Relations, Personal Profile and Talent Management globally.
Kulsum Shadab Wahab is an Indian philanthropist and entrepreneur who currently serves as Executive Director of the Hothur Foundation, a non-profit established by the Wahab Group. Deeply committed to social justice and women's empowerment, she has focused her work on supporting survivors of acid attacks, which is among the most severe forms of gender-based violence, by creating opportunities for rehabilitation, reintegration and personal transformation. Under her leadership, the Hothur Foundation has also expanded its mission to uplift marginalized communities by providing access to education, healthcare and targeted support for women affected by violence.
A pivotal encounter with an acid attack survivor during this journey profoundly influenced Kulsum Shadab Wahab and led to the creation of Ara Lumiere in 2018, a fashion label designed as a platform for resilience and creative expression. Ara Lumiere places these women at the heart of its vision, engaging them in the design and production of 100% sustainable, handcrafted garments and accessories. The brand fuses ethical fashion with female empowerment and exemplifies how fashion can serve as a powerful catalyst for advocacy, dignity, and change empowering women to reclaim their identity and voice. All proceeds are reinvested into their recovery journey, supporting medical treatments, psychological care and skills training. The SS23 collection, The Unbound debuted at Milan Fashion Week and earned the Social Impact Award at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards 2022, an acknowledgment of its commitment to sustainability and its transformative narrative.
Negri Firman, known for its commitment to philanthropic causes and purpose-driven projects in partnership with leading foundations, institutions, and NGO’s has been engaged to guide this next chapter, offering strategic counsel to shape and strengthen Kulsum Shadab Wahab’s personal profile. This includes safeguarding a strong and authentic public image, acting as talent manager and identifying opportunities that align with her values while contributing directly to fundraising efforts for the Hothur Foundation and the Ara Lumiere project, which supports women survivors of acid attacks. Kulsum Shadab Wahab is entering a pivotal stage in the growth of her mission, one that calls for a carefully orchestrated strategy to consolidate her position as a global advocate for social change while amplifying the visibility of the causes she champions.
Kulsum Shadab Wahab, whose work embodies power, purpose, and presence was honoured with the Entrepreneurial Excellence Award on 28th August 2025. The recognition took place during a prestigious Gala Dinner at the Womenpreneur X Emirati Summit & Expo, hosted at Hilton Al Habtoor City, Dubai. Celebrating a decade of Emirati Women’s Day, the awards, curated by Entrepreneurial Arabia spotlight visionary founders and changemakers whose leadership bridges business, innovation, and social impact. Leading up to the red-carpet celebration, Entrepreneurial Arabia unveiled honorees and shared spotlights on prominent figures shaping the region. The evening featured inspiring keynotes, dynamic power panels, and a women-led exhibitor showcase designed to recognize excellence, amplify voices, and connect leaders redefining the future of entrepreneurship in the UAE and beyond.
Image courtesy of Negri Firman PR & Communication
