Lovina was born and raised in Mumbai and is the heart behind two of the UK’s fastest growing South-Asian networks: Indian Professionals in London & UK (IPLUK) and Indian Women in London & UK (IWLUK). What began as a simple coffee catch-up when she first moved from Dubai to London — “feeling alone, adjusting to a new culture and daunting weather” — has now become a thriving community of over 100,000+ members. With over 42,000+ Indian women in IWLUK, founded three years ago), and a thriving 63,000+ members in IPLUK (launched just two years ago for men & women), these communities have quickly become a vibrant hub for connection and growth. From coffee mornings and brunches to grand festive celebrations like Diwali, Holi, and Christmas — and even boat parties on the HMS Wellington — they celebrate life’s meaningful moments together.
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In just a few years, IWLUK has become a trusted space where women can “share their queries, find support, and build lasting friendships”, while IPLUK has evolved into a powerful vocational network, “creating opportunities for career growth, collaboration, and a deeper sense of community”. Lovina’s journey began at Boxpark in Wembley on March 2022, when just 30 women attended the very first meetup. From there, the network rapidly expanded, establishing a strong presence through 30+ location-based WhatsApp groups, Instagram and Facebook communities, alongside local meetups across East, West, North, and South London, Midlands, Berkshire, Bristol & Manchester. Today, the community thrives across the nation, with vibrant sub-groups including a fitness club, book club, mum’s club, travel club, business and career networking forums which provide members the opportunity to care for one another as well as connect and grow.
Lovina’s work has been recognised by the BBC, and her leadership is as much about logistics as it is about creating strong community: “It takes long hours and a lot of hard work, but the commitment to emotional support is what makes it worthwhile,” said Lovina. “You also need to be very organised and think on your feet. It can be stressful, but seeing the impact on people makes it truly rewarding. I try to create a variety of events so there’s something for everyone — it’s about fostering closeness and getting to know people.” Communication and the soft power of bonding then is highlighted as valuable: “coming to the UK as a newcomer, I never imagined I’d find not just a community but such a strong network of friends and entrepreneurial connection — the country is now my home,” she added. Indeed, every member has been added with due diligence, with profiles verified across social media handles, ensuring a safe and trusted space.
“When I think of London, certain corners hold a very special place in my heart,” Lovina reflected. “Wembley Park will always be close to me — it’s where my journey began. In Notting Hill, I unexpectedly wandered into a bookstore straight out of one of my favourite films which was magical. Covent Garden was unforgettable, with my first Charlie Chaplin street performance, and St. James’ Park is memorable as the first park I explored with my family. Each place tells a story of discovery and joy.” The platform serves as a closely helpful space where members can openly share their challenges and receive answers drawn from personal experiences. Lovina recounted: “there have been times when someone posted that their loved ones were in hospital, alone, and local members stepped in with food and assistance. Our Q&A section has become a vital resource — people turn to it for tax and mortgage advice, visa queries, job references, tutors for their children, and much more.” These efforts reflect how empathy combined with practical support can foster confidence as a whole:
“I have developed a deep sense of purpose and resilience along the way. True, unstoppable power comes from what no one can take from you: your mindset, your character, and the essence of who you are.” Looking ahead, Lovina hopes to share more in-depth stories of her members’ successes, with a focus on their life journeys and entrepreneurial achievements: “I envision it as a platform similar to ‘Humans of New York,’ highlighting real experiences, challenges, and accomplishments.” The leader credited her family and incredible team: “none of this would have been possible without Prableen Rupra, Disha Rawat, and Nishi Gill”. Lovina's journey proves that community is more than numbers — it emerges as a crucial lifeline of trust. She concluded: “through our platforms, I’ve seen countless members find accommodation, business partners, job references and lifelong friendships. But more than anything, it turns strangers into friends, ideas into possibilities, and transforms challenges into celebration: #TogetherWeGrow.”
I: @Indianprofessionalslondonuk
