World Zoroastrian Women’s Leadership Retreat 2025: Embracing Sacred Leadership

After the resounding success of the World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum, we invite you to be part of an extraordinary women’s summit. The ZASHA Retreat is creating a sacred space for Zoroastrian women leaders to unite, inspire, and empower one another. Join us from July 9th to 16th, 2025 at the ASHA Centre, nestled in the historic Forest of Dean, UK, for a journey that celebrates the strength, wisdom, and vibrancy of our sisterhood.

Why ZASHA?

We believe in the transformative power of women coming together. ZASHA is more than a retreat – where Zoroastrian women can authentically connect, openly share, and grow together. Through meaningful collaboration and shared experiences, we are kindling a global network of women committed to personal growth and community leadership. Together, we envision a future where Zoroastrian women stand united, leading with grace while honouring our rich heritage.

Our Journey Together

Through deep dialogue, collaborative workshops and creative sessions, we will:

– Examine how Zoroastrian women have shaped and continue to influence our faith

– Develop practical leadership skills for community impact

– Understand the quantum perspective of resilience and resourcefulness

– Forge meaningful mentor-mentee relationships that last beyond the retreat

– Co-create innovative initiatives and projects that address our community’s needs

– Share successful strategies for engaging and inspiring the next generation leaders

– Explore how we can be powerful co-creators of a brighter Zoroastrian future

This transformative experience combines ancient wisdom with modern leadership approaches, empowering each participant to become an active architect of positive change in our global Zoroastrian community.

The ASHA Centre: Our Sacred Space

The ASHA Centre is a British educational charity founded on Zoroastrian principles of sustainability, social responsibility, and selfless service. Nestled in the enchanting Forest of Dean, the Centre embodies the Persian concept of paradaida, or paradise, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and thoughtful design. This serene environment provides participants with the perfect setting for deep reflection and personal transformation.

Our connection with nature will be deepened through guided forest bathing experiences in the ancient Forest of Dean—a woodland so magical it inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth in The Lord of the Rings. We will also embark on a special day trip to Wales, immersing ourselves in its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Building On Success

The transformative power of sacred gatherings at the ASHA Centre has been proven through the remarkable success of the World Zoroastrian Youth Leadership Forum (WZYLF). Following the 2018 and 2024 WZYLF retreats at the ASHA Centre, the young leaders have gone on to achieve extraordinary milestones in global leadership. From serving in leadership positions of major Zoroastrian organizations including FEZANA, WZO, WZCC and leading important initiatives aimed at preserving the rich heritage of our religion, these young leaders have created lasting impact across our community. Their achievements span from designing new Atash Kadehs to representing our faith at the Parliament of World’s Religions and the United Nations. These successes inspire ZASHA’s vision, showing how gathering like these can spark change that ripples through our global community.

Essential Information

Spaces are limited for this intimate gathering so we encourage you to submit your “Expression of Interest” as soon as possible! We will send out formal invitations shortly after. 

Registration & Costs

– Cost: $1,400 – $1,550 USD

 – Includes:  Program, accommodation, three meals daily, and excursions

– Age requirement: 30+ (if you are under the age of 30, keep an eye out for the upcoming World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum scheduled for May 2026)

Accommodation

– Shared rooms in quiet English cottages

Location & Travel

– The ASHA Centre is located near Gloucester city, 2.5-3 hours from London

– Travel options:

  – Bus services from Heathrow and Gatwick airports to Gloucester station

  – Train service available

  – Accessible by car – Complimentary minivan transfers between Gloucester station and ASHA Centre on arrival/departure days

Come be part of this transformative experience from July 9th to 16th, 2025. Together, we’ll create not just memories, but a legacy of strength, wisdom, and unity for generations to come.