A FESTIVAL reflecting some of the most pressing women’s issues of today will take place in Bradford this weekend.

The Women of the World Festival will celebrate successes of women from all walks of life, as well as tackling issues like domestic abuse, body identity and honour-based violence.

Held at Kala Sangam arts centre on Saturday and Sunday, the festival is returning to Bradford after a successful debut last year.

Like last year, the line-up has been shaped by women from Bradford, including teens from Bradford’s schools known as the Wowsers.

The latest line-up announcement includes fashion blogger and youtuber Nabiila Bee who will be talking about the highs and lows of life as an online celebrity, on the Taking on the Trolls panel, which will also include online stars Hannah Witton and Grace Victory.

Other speakers include acclaimed author Reni Eddo-Lodge, who will speak about racism, and online star Harnaam Kaur, who wears a beard due to her polycystic ovary syndrome and is part of a panel talking about how women are defined by their hair. There will also be an all-male panel, featuring poet Anthony Anaxagorou, that will look at how men view feminism, and talks about women in politics and street harassment.

As well as the numerous panels, there will be events including a Beyonce dance class, a flashmob and an evening of dance by Ella Mesma and Hannah Buckley.

The festival is run by the Southbank Centre, although every panel will feature at least one local person.

Teenage campaigner and Wowser Mehmoona Pervaz is involved with the festival for a second year, and said: “So many positive things have come out of WOW Bradford. My own personal confidence has boosted because of it. Since the WOW festival, it has made me realise I’m not alone because it really brings women and girls together.

“WOW Bradford gives people space to share their stories, and speak about their scars, because that’s what makes them beautiful. WOW shines a light on everything that is positive about Bradford and it is amazing that one thing has changed so many lives in the city.”

On the Saturday evening there will be a party in the Brick Box Rooms on Ivegate. The all-female line-up for the evening will include DJs, music, dance and poetry performances and installations.

For more information visit kalasangam.org/box-office/wow-women-world-festival/