Festival celebrating achievements of women and girls returns to city

A HOST of prominent activists, speakers, businesswomen, artists and sports people will be celebrated when the Women of the World (WOW) Festival returns to Bradford next month.

The event, being held in the city for the second year as well as in other cities around the UK, recognises the achievements of women and girls and takes a look at what stops them from achieving their goals.

Since it was founded in London in 2010, organisers say WOW has become the largest women’s festival movement in the world and has now happened in 20 cities across five continents. Events take place at Kala Sangam Arts Centre and Bradford Cathedral on November 18 and 19. Among the highlights are ‘vloggers’, or video bloggers Hannah Witton, inset, and Grace Victory sharing their experiences of the highs and lows of life in front of the camera and discussing issues pertinent to the ‘selfie generation’. The festival offers people a chance to hear compelling stories based on real experiences, on topics such as the housing crisis, domestic abuse and ‘honour’ crimes.

Festival programmers Saliha Rubani and Laura Brooks said: “Each city that hosts a WOW festival ensures that it reflects the personality and unique joys. So WOW Bradford is truly reflective of our amazing city.

“Not only does it shine a light on the challenges that women face, but also the beauty and power of our city – particularly the people.

“Throughout the programme, as well as showcasing amazing international women, every single panel and workshop features a woman from Bradford who is doing something to help her community.

“We’re thrilled that the festival will fully represent our diverse and vibrant city.”