British Council to Host WOW Pakistan 2025 in Lahore

The British Council, in partnership with the WOW Foundation, UNFPA, and Entrepreneurship and Community Development Institute (ECDI), is set to host the 8th annual WOW—Women of the World Festival Pakistan. The festival will take place at the Alhamra Arts Council, Lahore, on February 1st and 2nd, 2025. It will celebrate women’s achievements, foster dialogue, and address their challenges. The festival invites women, girls, and families to enjoy a diverse and inclusive program.

James Hampson, Country Director, British Council Pakistan said: “Celebrating the role of women and championing the empowerment of Pakistan’s girls is at the heart of WOW 2025 in Lahore. If you support what WOW stands for, there is no better place to be this weekend than at Al-Hamra with the British Council and our amazing partners.”

Jude Kelly, CEO & Founder of The WOW Foundation, said: “The brilliant team at the British Council and local voices have ensured that WOW Pakistan will be a joyful, heady, heartfelt festival that supports bold dreams, and also understands that we need patience that lasts years and not just a few months in order to make real and lasting change.”

The festival promises an inclusive experience for all with sign language interpretation, Braille resources, wheel-chair friendly ramps and walkways ensuring participation for everyone.

The festival’s vibrant lineup includes:

• The launch of the British Council’s Sustainable Fashion Report, which explores the intersection of style and environmental consciousness.
• A female qawwali performance curated by musician Arieb Azhar, alongside a touching tribute to Haniya Aslam by Rakae Jamil.
• Renowned performer Suhai Abro will captivate audiences with an enthralling dance performance, while readings by literary icons Attiya Dawood and Zambeel will inspire thought and reflection.
• Families and children can enjoy Khaled Anam’s interactive pop-up featuring stories and songs, and art enthusiasts will witness a collaborative creation in the form of a public mural of impactful women by Summaiya Jillani.
• A compelling film on women in the arts by Destination Media which will highlight the narratives of talented and resilient women.

This year’s theme, Surkhaab, symbolizes women’s inherent worth and resilience, challenging societal norms that compel women to prove their value. Surkhaab is a call to recognize the equality and self-worth of women and to reshape narratives that often marginalize them.

Through the WOW Festival, the British Council continues to create platforms for women to voice concerns, challenge systemic barriers, and celebrate their accomplishments.