Changemaker of the Month: Soniya Iqbal
At Flourish, we love celebrating women who turn their experiences into opportunities to support others. This month, we’re delighted to recognise Soniya Iqbal, founder of Heal ‘N’ Thriive Therapies, whose journey demonstrates the power of personal growth, resilience and taking that first step.
Soniya joined the Flourish community in 2024 after being referred through a local Women’s WhatsApp group. After achieving her Psychology degree, she spotted one of our free Holistic Health courses and decided to give it a try.
“I saw a free course and thought why not fill my time by developing my skills, and join in.”
As a mother of three, Soniya was inspired to explore the possibility of self-employment within the wellbeing sector. Drawing on her own lived experience of trauma, she wanted to build a future where she could support both herself and others, while reconnecting with people and finding a renewed sense of purpose.
“My goals were to engage in some positive activity, connecting with others and meeting new people and starting a business.”
Soniya went on to complete both the Time to Grow and Careers in Holistic Health programmes, alongside attending networking events, outreach activities and mentoring sessions with the Flourish team. Through these opportunities, she refined her business ideas, developed her marketing confidence and, most importantly, began believing in her own potential.
“This all built my confidence, experience and gave me the initiative to start my own business. It’s been a win-win. I came for fun and connection and it’s turned into so much more!”
Today, Soniya runs Heal ‘N’ Thriive Therapies, combining her background as a Psychology graduate with holistic therapies including massage, Indian Head Massage, Hijama and other wellbeing treatments. Her vision is to bridge the gap between mental and physical wellbeing by offering bodyworks through compassionate, person-centred support.
“It’s been interesting to see how well the holistic side aligns with my Psychology degree… I see combining these approaches as the key to my future in supporting myself and others.”
Her approach reflects a growing understanding of the mind-body connection.
“I’m combining psychology and psychosomatic knowledge with holistic therapies and recognising the need of touch to compliment talking therapies to attain psychological healing.”
Since starting her business, Soniya has continued to grow in confidence and experience. Through Flourish, she has delivered treatments at Pop-Up Spa events, including the Multicultural Christmas celebration, Summer Bazaar, secured regular paid wellbeing sessions with Signpost for Carers, contributed to corporate wellbeing events, and continues to expand her skills through Reiki, Intramuscular vitamin injections, and Hopi ear candling.
She credits much of her progress to the ongoing encouragement she has received from Flourish.
“Finding Flourish was a Godsend. The people there, who I now class as my family, proved to be a safe, non-judgemental space, especially through challenging times, with their main characteristic being unconditional positive regard and empowerment focused for all. Flourish have most definitely been an invaluable asset to my life and I deeply believe for many others in the present and in the future.”
“Having a mentor and emotional support from the team has helped me to overcome self-limiting beliefs, believe in myself and keep moving forward.”
Now working from several venues, including Flourish Hubs in Stockport and Trafford, and buildings in Burnage, Soniya is steadily growing both her client base and income while continuing to access enterprise support through Flourish and the Growth Company.
Looking ahead, her ambition is to establish a dedicated women’s wellbeing centre—bringing together holistic therapies, education and practical support to create a safe, nurturing space where women can prioritise both their physical and emotional wellbeing.
Soniya’s story reminds us that sometimes the smallest decision—signing up to a free course, meeting new people or saying “yes” to an opportunity—can become the first step towards something truly life-changing. We’re proud to celebrate everything she has achieved so far and look forward to seeing Heal ‘N’ Thriive Therapies continue to grow and make a positive difference within our communities.her at thecommunitycounsellor@consultant.com.
