The British Council, in partnership with the WOW Foundation, UNFPA, and the Entrepreneurship and Community Development Institute (ECDI), is set to host the 8th annual WOW – Women of the World Festival in Lahore on February 1st and 2nd, 2025. This incredible event will be held at the famous Alhamra Arts Council. The WOW Festival aims to celebrate the achievements of women, highlight their challenges, and promote meaningful conversations about their empowerment and future.
The WOW Festival has become a symbol of strength for women, and it invites everyone, especially women, girls, and families, to be part of this exciting, inclusive, and enriching experience. The festival will showcase a variety of performances, talks, and activities designed to inspire and encourage women to dream big.
James Hampson, the British Council’s Country Director in Pakistan, shared, “Supporting and celebrating the role of women in Pakistan is at the core of WOW 2025. The event at Alhamra this weekend will be a unique experience to honor women’s achievements and empower the next generation of girls.”
Jude Kelly, the CEO and Founder of the WOW Foundation, expressed her excitement by saying, “The local team at the British Council and our amazing partners have created an event that will be joyful, bold, and heartfelt. WOW Pakistan is about dreaming big, but also understanding that true change takes time and patience.”
This year, the WOW Festival is taking extra steps to ensure everyone can participate and enjoy the event. The venue will be fully accessible with sign language interpreters, Braille resources, and wheelchair-friendly ramps, making it easy for all visitors to be part of the celebration.
The festival promises a rich and diverse lineup of events. Some of the highlights include:
- The British Council’s launch of the Sustainable Fashion Report, which explores how fashion and the environment intersect. This report will shed light on how we can make eco-friendly choices without compromising style.
- A mesmerizing female qawwali performance curated by the talented musician Arieb Azhar. This performance will also feature a beautiful tribute to the late Haniya Aslam, delivered by the renowned Rakae Jamil.
- Suhai Abro, a renowned performer, will captivate the audience with an unforgettable dance performance.
- Literary giants like Attiya Dawood and Zambeel will share their work through inspirational readings that will ignite creativity and reflection.
- Khaled Anam will engage families and children with a fun and interactive pop-up session filled with stories and songs.
- Art lovers will witness the creation of a stunning public mural, highlighting the stories of impactful women, created by the talented Summaiya Jillani.
- The festival will also feature a powerful film about women in the arts by Destination Media, showcasing the journeys of resilient women in creative fields.
This year’s theme, Surkhaab, holds a special meaning. It symbolizes women’s inherent value and their strength in overcoming societal norms that often demand women prove their worth. Surkhaab encourages a shift in the narrative, challenging the traditional views that undermine women’s potential. It’s a call to celebrate women’s equality and the undeniable impact they have in all areas of life.
Through this festival, the British Council continues its mission to provide a platform for women to voice their concerns, challenge barriers, and celebrate their achievements. The WOW Festival is an important space for empowering women, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring that the voices of women from all walks of life are heard and valued.
The WOW Festival in Lahore is an event not to be missed. With a wide array of activities and performances, it promises to be a vibrant and unforgettable experience for all. Join the celebration of women’s strength, resilience, and future at the WOW Pakistan Festival 2025 in Lahore!
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