London’s Southbank to host Women of the World festival

Iraqi-American activist Zainab Salbi set to hold a talk during WOW London – Monira Matin More than a hundred events will take place at London’s Southbank Centre as part of the Women of the World (WOW) festival, to celebrate International Women’s Day, it has been revealed. The four-day event, set begin on Wednesday, will coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8 .It will feature nearly 300 speakers and performers in a mix of topical talks, workshops, comedy and concerts.
The annual festival is aimed at celebrating “emerging female talent” and discussing the obstacles that prevent women from achieving their full potential, said the organisers.
“Women and girls hit the global news daily with examples if their achievements in every sphere, as well as devastating examples of how inequality and prejudice continue to blight their potential,” said Jude Kelly, Artistic Director of the South Bank Centre.
“WOW has become the global festival that most reflects this as girls and women, boys and men come together to shift the debate, celebrate the progress and enjoy themselves,” she added.
Kelly also confirmed that this year’s event is set to feature prominent female figures from Iraqi- American activist and founder of Women for Women International, Zainab Salbi to Ethiopian singer-songwriter Meklit Hadero.
Other well known figures will include Ziauddin Yousafzai, the father of shot Pakistani schoolgirl, Malala Yousafzai, who is set to hold a talk on Friday with Britain’s former prime minister Gordon Brown about the importance of education for women.
The WOW – Women of the World festival will run between March 6-10 at London’s Southbank Centre.
Passes cost £12 each day (£6 concessions) or £30 for a three day pass (£15 concession).