The British Council’s WOW – Women of the World Festival, held in collaboration with Standard Chartered, Shan Foods, UNFPA, ECDI Pakistan, and Olomopolo Media, concluded triumphantly on March 3, 2024, at the Alhamra Arts Council in Lahore. Marking its first appearance in Lahore after successful events in Karachi and gatherings in Hunza, the two-day festival drew hundreds of attendees, offering a diverse and engaging program that celebrated and empowered women.
The festival’s opening speech, delivered by British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, and the closing remarks by Deputy Chief Executive of the British Council, Kate Ewart-Biggs, highlighted the significance of the event. Dr Paul Thompson, Chair of the British Council, was also in attendance, commending the enthusiasm and passion of participants.
The WOW Festival featured a unique program comprising panels, workshops, film screenings, immersive performances, vibrant marketplaces, and puppet shows, alongside films catering to children. Noteworthy performances by popular music artists Natasha Noorani and Eva B captivated the audience. The festival’s grand finale showcased an ensemble of artists, including Amna Riaz, Romaisa Tariq, Annural Khalid, Natasha Baig, Hassan, and Roshan.
Addressing the gender issues of the day, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott emphasized the festival’s role in pushing boundaries and defending women’s rights globally. Kate Ewart-Biggs, Deputy Chief Executive of the British Council, highlighted the importance of women’s contributions for a nation’s success and expressed ongoing support for the WOW Festival in Pakistan.
Presented in collaboration with the WOW Foundation, this year’s theme, “Sakhiyan” (Friends), celebrated the bonds of friendship among women. The festival covered diverse topics, including mental health, climate change, education, women in public spaces, the digital divide, power, patriarchy, and disability.
For more information, visit:
- Instagram: @wow.pakistan @britishcouncilpakistan @olomopolo @ecdipakistan
- Facebook: @womenoftheworldfestival
About WOW Pakistan 2024: The WOW Festival in 2024, developed by curating partners and influenced by a diverse group of stakeholders, focused on addressing various issues impacting women. It provided a platform for discussions, performances, and empowerment initiatives.
About The WOW Foundation: Established in 2018 by Jude Kelly CBE, The WOW Foundation runs the global WOW – Women of the World Festivals, celebrating women’s achievements and addressing obstacles they face. The festivals, initiated in the UK in 2010, have reached five million people in 45 locations across six continents.
About the British Council: The British Council, the UK’s international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities, actively contributes to building connections, understanding, and trust between people globally. Engaging over 80 million people directly last year, the British Council continues to promote cultural exchange, education, and language development.
