Sukh Kaur: Flirting, falling in love and fun ways to find a perfect match
Eastern Eye caught up with the relationship expert to discuss different aspects of dating, unique Jenga-inspired events and her top tips for singletons
By Asjad NazirOct 14, 2023
DATING apps may provide more options for single people than ever before, but many have been left frustrated with swiping across to find a life partner.
Being unsatisfied with apps led Sukh Kaur towards setting up her company Some Single Thing. The British entrepreneur organises unique events for singles looking to meet someone special and offers professional coaching for those who need it.
Eastern Eye caught up with the relationship expert to discuss different aspects of dating, unique Jenga-inspired events and her top tips for singletons. She also spoke about the importance of staying in the moment, the secret of making a connection, flirting and confidence.
What made you go from getting dating app fatigue to setting up a matchmaking company?
Conversations on dating apps were always lacklustre. There was a lot of ghosting and I couldn’t really find anyone who wanted to make a genuine connection. I thought that there must be a place where like-minded genuine singles want to connect. I couldn’t find a company I resonated with and decided to create my own.
What made you want to organise dating events?
After hosting my firs- ever event in Birmingham, I could see the advantages of bringing singles together in a room. The energy was amazing. I could see people exchanging numbers with each other. This made me want to bring more like-minded singles together. Post lockdown, singles are still struggling to get out, so my events are somewhere they can connect, make friends and find potential partners. I love it when I see people connecting.
What was the thought process behind your Jenga-inspired dating events?
Speed-dating events are great to bring people together, but they only give you a few minutes to connect. And many were getting bored of asking the same generic questions. That is when I realised the need to incorporate something fun at the table. Along came Jenga. Because a good relationship is built on strong foundations, right?
Tell us about the Jenga dating events?
Jenga speed dating is a fun quirky way to work together as a team. You pull out a block and there is an icebreaker question you can ask your date. The thought provoking questions enable you to learn more about your date. No questions are ever the same, so you’re always learning and most importantly having fun.
Could you tell us about the process of coaching singles?
I work with singles to navigate dating more effectively to meet quality singles, attract a partner they desire and enjoy the dating journey. Singles have become so stuck in their ways with their preconceived ideas and checklists that many are just not present when dating. This is what causes dating fatigue and makes singles want to quit altogether. I work with singles to shake up their dating plan and assist them in all aspects of dating, including understanding what really aligns with them.
You also share advice on aspects like flirting, body language and confidence. What top tip would you give singles?
My top tips would be to throw out the checklist, be present and just have fun. Dating is all about just thinking ‘am I having fun with this person’ and ‘would l like to meet them again’. Honestly, the more you’re relaxed and present with your date, the more you can gauge if there is potential for something more. Don’t think about marriage straight away or get your hopes up too soon. Instead, stay present and in the moment. Try it – it’s way more fun.
What is the secret of making a connection at dating events where you have limited time?
Make sure you are dressed to look confident but comfortable. After all, first impressions count. Have good icebreaker questions ready, so conversations can be varied as and when you speak to different singles. Swap standard questions like ‘what are your hobbies and where are you from’, for expansive ones like ‘how would your family and friends describe you’. The answers will give you an opportunity to delve deeper into conversations.
Are there any flirting tips you have?
I love this topic. Flirting is all about making someone feel fabulous in your presence. You want to make them feel special in that moment you are together. So simply pay them a compliment. This could be an accessory they are wearing or even a piece of clothing. Ask them what the story is behind it or where they got it from. It’s a great way to begin a conversation with them. Try it out.
What advice would you give those who are not confident talking to people?
Dating is only a fraction of your life and shouldn’t define you. If you’re not confident in dating, I would encourage you to build your confidence in doing things you enjoy.
If you enjoy cooking, take up a cookery class. This is a great way to put yourself in a comfortable setting with strangers and talking to them. Classes are a great way to meet new people and make new social connections.
By doing this, not only do you expand your social circle, you also increase your confidence with strangers. When your confidence becomes natural in your day to day life, dating will become that little bit more comfortable too.
What advice would you give single mothers and fathers?
Many single parents struggle to date and find a partner. I understand it can be deflating, but I would say flip your mindset. If someone says they aren’t interested because you have children, that’s their problem and not yours. You’re a proud parent and nothing is going to change that. Keep going, keep dating. Mix with other singles in different social groups. This helps to expand your social circles and introduce you to new people.
What about those who are older and looking for love?
The most common issue I have found with older singles is that they have a checklist of what they are looking for. What we need to remember is as we age, we evolve. What was right for us in our 20s may not be the same when older. This is the same when searching for a partner. So, ditch the list, be more realistic with your expectations and more open to dating different kinds of people. You may find you align or find a different type of person attractive.
What advice would you give those going on dates with a new person?
Simply have fun. Pre-date jitters are common, but the main thing to remember is that your date will be nervous too. Make sure you concentrate on having a fun date and getting to know them a little more. This takes the pressure away from calling it a ‘date’. At the end, think about if you had fun and if you would just like to see them again. Fingers crossed; you will be planning for a second date.
What inspires you as a dating coach and event organiser for single people?
I’m a natural cheerleader. It feels rewarding giving singles in my community a safe space to be open about how they feel about dating, but also give them a platform to meet singles in a fun environment too. That’s what inspires me to keep moving forward to support as many singles as I can. I’m always rooting for them all to find love.
Tourists stranded after Foça wildfire halts flights at Izmir airport
At least 550 people evacuated from homes in the region
Over 600 personnel deployed to contain the blaze
Strong winds and heat raise risk of further fires
Wildfires force airport shutdown in Turkish holiday hotspot
Hundreds of UK tourists, including several from Glasgow, have been left stranded after major wildfires swept through a popular holiday destination in western Turkey, forcing the closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.
The blaze broke out in the resort town of Foça, near Izmir, and was rapidly intensified by strong winds, prompting large-scale evacuations and flight disruptions. All operations at the airport were suspended from 4 pm local time due to ongoing extinguishing efforts, with multiple flights reportedly diverted.
More than 550 residents were evacuated from 175 homes in the Ilıpınar district, while emergency crews battled the fire for over 22 hours. The extensive response included 625 personnel, 46 fire engines, six helicopters, nine bulldozers and 13 water tankers.
Dramatic footage showed aircraft dropping water over the blaze in an effort to slow its spread. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Süleyman Elban, Governor of Izmir Province, has urged residents and visitors to remain cautious, citing the combination of high temperatures and low humidity as factors that could lead to additional fires.
The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir. Blazes have also been reported this week in Kahramanmaraş, Bursa, Sakarya, Bilecik, Gaziantep, Bolu and Manisa, putting regional emergency services under sustained pressure.
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Glutathione and anti ageing drugs under spotlight after Shefali Jariwala death
Shefali Jariwala died at 42 in Mumbai after reportedly collapsing post-fast; cause of death suspected to be cardiac arrest or blood pressure drop.
Police found anti-ageing pills, vitamin supplements, and glutathione injections at her residence.
Doctors stress the risks of unsupervised use of hormone-based and anti-ageing treatments.
Final post-mortem report expected in two days; no foul play suspected, case treated as accidental death.
The untimely death of actor-model Shefali Jariwala has sparked renewed concern over the unregulated use of anti-ageing treatments and self-medication. The 42-year-old, best known for her appearance in Kaanta Laga, was declared dead on arrival at a Mumbai hospital on Friday night. Initial investigations suggest she may have suffered a cardiac arrest following a steep drop in blood pressure, possibly linked to taking supplements on an empty stomach.
Shefali Jariwala death raises concern over anti ageing drugs and self medication Instagram/shefalijariwala
What caused Shefali Jariwala’s collapse? Police and doctors investigate
Shefali Jariwala was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital by her husband and friends after she suddenly collapsed at home, but she was already unresponsive. Her family said she had been fasting for a religious ritual and had consumed her regular supplements shortly after breaking the fast. Among the substances recovered at her Andheri apartment were glutathione injections, commonly used for skin lightening, and various anti-ageing tablets.
Doctors at Cooper Hospital, where her post-mortem was conducted, suspect a fatal drop in blood pressure, though only the final autopsy will confirm the precise cause of death. So far, Mumbai Police have ruled out foul play and registered an accidental death report.
Health experts warn against unmonitored anti-ageing therapies
Experts are now urging caution over the growing trend of unsupervised beauty and anti-ageing regimens, especially among public figures. Dr Dhirendra Singhania, a leading cardiologist, pointed to steroids, hormone therapies, and poor sleep as major heart risk factors, even among seemingly fit individuals. While glutathione and vitamin C aren’t inherently dangerous, he said their misuse or interaction with other drugs can trigger complications.
Anti ageing pills found at Shefali Jariwala home spark health safety debate Instagram/shefalijariwala
Shefali had no known chronic illnesses apart from epilepsy, which doctors say is unlikely to be linked to her sudden collapse. Her death, while still under investigation, adds to growing concerns about beauty pressures, self-prescribed treatments, and the long-term risks of trying to defy ageing without medical oversight.
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Prada acknowledges Indian influence behind its Spring Summer 2026 men’s footwear
• Prada confirms Indian roots behind 2026 ‘leather sandals’ after controversy • Indian artisans and officials accused the brand of cultural appropriation • The footwear resembles traditional Kolhapuri chappals with GI status • Prada says designs are still in development and open to dialogue with India
Italian fashion label Prada has officially acknowledged that its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection includes footwear inspired by India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals. The statement came after mounting criticism from Indian artisans and industry leaders, who claimed the brand showcased the design at Milan Fashion Week without recognising its origins.
Prada confirms Kolhapuri chappals inspired its 2026 Milan collectionInstagram/prada
Prada responds to Kolhapuri chappal row
In a letter addressed to Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA), Prada’s CSR head Lorenzo Bertelli confirmed the sandals were influenced by Indian craftsmanship. The fashion house admitted that the open-toe leather sandals presented on the Milan runway drew from the centuries-old Kolhapuri style, traditionally made by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Kolhapuri chappals have been crafted for centuries and received GI tag in 2019 iStock
The controversy erupted after Prada described the footwear simply as “leather sandals” in its show notes, omitting any reference to India. This led to accusations of cultural appropriation and disregard for artisans' rights. BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik also led a group of Kolhapuri chappal makers to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging government action to protect their Geographical Indication (GI) status.
No production yet, says Prada, as India seeks fair credit
Prada clarified that the sandals shown were part of an early-stage design process and have not been confirmed for mass production. “None of the pieces are finalised or approved for commercial use,” Bertelli wrote.
MACCIA, in its communication, called for proper acknowledgement and possible collaboration or compensation for Indian artisans. The organisation stressed that Kolhapuri chappals are not just heritage products but also vital to the livelihoods of thousands of families.
In response, Bertelli assured Prada’s commitment to ethical design, cultural respect, and further engagement with Indian artisan communities. He also welcomed the opportunity for open dialogue on potential partnerships.
The Kolhapuri chappal, awarded GI status in 2019, is a symbol of regional identity and craftsmanship. As global fashion continues to borrow from traditional cultures, this case may set the tone for how brands address ownership, recognition, and respect.
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Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour”
Anna Wintour steps down as editor of US Vogue after 37 years
She will remain Vogue’s global editorial director and hold senior roles at Condé Nast
Wintour transformed US Vogue into a global fashion authority
The 75-year-old has received numerous honours, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom
End of an era at US Vogue
Anna Wintour has stepped down as the editor of US Vogue, bringing to a close a 37-year tenure that redefined the publication and saw her become one of the most influential figures in global fashion.
The announcement was made on Thursday (26 June) during a staff meeting in New York. Wintour, 75, will no longer oversee the day-to-day editorial operations of Vogue’s US edition. However, she will continue to serve as Vogue’s global editorial director and Condé Nast’s chief content officer, maintaining senior leadership roles across the company.
A transformative legacy
Wintour took the helm of US Vogue in 1988, inheriting a relatively conservative magazine. She swiftly transformed it into a trendsetting, authoritative voice in fashion. Under her leadership, the publication became known for its iconic covers, high-end photography, and ability to shape careers in the fashion industry.
With extensive budgets and strong advertising support, Vogue became a global fashion flagship, influencing designers, celebrities, and brands worldwide.
Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour” for her decisiveness, with some reports noting her tendency to make bold editorial decisions without extensive discussion. Her distinctive bob haircut and ever-present sunglasses made her a recognisable front-row figure at fashion weeks around the world.
Beyond the magazine
The British-born editor rose to wider public fame as the inspiration behind the character Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada — both the 2003 novel and the 2006 film adaptation. While Wintour rarely commented on the portrayal, she acknowledged the attention it brought, most recently during the launch of a stage musical adaptation in London in 2024.
She told the BBC, “They [my sunglasses] help me see and they help me not see. They help me be seen and not be seen. They are a prop, I would say.”
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met Gala, the annual high-profile charity event in New York City, which she has organised for years, drawing celebrities from fashion, film, politics, and sport.
Recognition and future plans
Wintour has received numerous accolades during her career. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2017 and became a Companion of Honour in February 2025. During the ceremony in London, she removed her sunglasses to receive the award and told King Charles III that she had no intention of retiring.
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met GalaGetty Images
In the United States, President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year before leaving office.
Despite stepping back from US Vogue, Wintour will continue to oversee several major Condé Nast titles including Wired, Vanity Fair, GQ, Condé Nast Traveler, and Glamour, as part of her global leadership responsibilities.
In her remarks to staff, she described the decision as “pivotal” but confirmed she would not be leaving the company or her office. “I’ll be turning all my attention to global leadership and working with our team of brilliant editors around the world,” she said.
Nadiya Hussain confirms BBC will not renew her cookery series
Bake Off winner challenges expectations to remain “grateful”
She says hard work and talent, not luck, brought her success
Celebrities, including Annie Lennox and Fearne Cotton, show support
BBC ends decade-long collaboration with Bake Off star
Nadiya Hussain has spoken out after the BBC decided not to commission another cookery programme with her. The popular TV chef, who won The Great British Bake Off in 2015, shared her views on social media, stating that she “won’t always be grateful” and should not be expected to remain silent about career setbacks.
The decision ends a nearly 10-year working relationship between the broadcaster and Hussain, who has hosted several well-received cookery shows under the BBC banner. In her latest Instagram video, she addressed the public’s reaction and emphasised her right to expect more from her career.
“Gratitude shouldn't be a muzzle”
In a video message posted on Instagram, Hussain said she had received numerous messages urging her to be grateful following the show's cancellation. She described how growing up in an immigrant household had shaped her understanding of gratitude.
“Grateful for being let in, grateful for having work—even if underpaid, grateful for safety—even if it meant silence,” she explained. “Gratitude became something that I was expected to wear like a uniform.”
She continued: “I am allowed to feel more than just thankful. I am a human being, and I am allowed to feel angry when I’m treated unfairly. I’m allowed to want better for myself and for my family.”
Challenging the idea that people from marginalised backgrounds must constantly express gratitude for any opportunities, she said: “We didn’t come here just to survive; we came here to live, to grow, to contribute, to belong—not as a guest, but as a person who has rights and dreams and dignity.”
Hussain concluded, “So no, I won’t always be grateful. I got here through hard work, through determination, through talent. I got here because I’m good at what I do.”
Nadiya’s message received widespread support from fans and fellow public figures. TV presenter Fearne Cotton responded with a series of heart emojis, while musician Annie Lennox praised her statement, writing: “Gratitude should never become a silencing muzzle—as you so rightly say!”
Rahul Mandal, who won Bake Off in 2018, commented: “So true. Thanks so much for speaking up.” TV doctor Amir Khan also backed her remarks, stating: “Exactly this! Well said.”
Nadiya’s track record with the BBC
Since winning Bake Off when it aired on the BBC, Hussain has fronted several successful cookery series for the broadcaster. These include Nadiya Bakes, Nadiya’s Fast Flavours, and Nadiya’s Simple Spices. She is also a published author of cookbooks and children’s titles.
Earlier this month, the BBC issued a statement on the programming decision: “After several wonderful series, we have made the difficult decision not to commission another cookery show with Nadiya Hussain at the moment.”
However, the broadcaster emphasised that it remains open to future collaborations and that Nadiya is “a much-valued part of the BBC family”.
What’s next for Nadiya?
While a new BBC project is not in the pipeline, Nadiya has hinted at future ventures. In a previous post addressing the show’s cancellation, she said she is now focusing on “being [her] most authentic self” and is looking forward to working with people who “believe in [her] talent”.
She also reassured her followers that “exciting” new projects are on the way.