10:30-12:00 | Representative, Diverse and Inclusive Boards – a win-win-win

A keynote and panel discussion led by Bristol Women in Business Charter CIC on how boards and senior teams in Bristol can get better at recruiting, retaining and bringing to the boardroom more women and people with other gender identities and intersectionality.

12:15-13:45 | Global Feminism: joining the dots between work for women’s equity across the world

Hear from inspiring women who have worked and campaigned for women’s rights in Afghanistan, Kurdistan, Kenya and the USA.

Panellists: Faith Barorot – founder of African Feminist Collective involved in the #endfemicideKE march; Arifa Omarzada – a midwife from Afghanistan; Kwestan Omer – founder of Aynda Group for Kurdish women in Bristol; Orgena Rose – artivist who has used song and the arts to create change in the USA

Chair: Kamaljit Poonia. Coach, Facilitator and Diversity Consultant

14:00-15:30 | Are we doing enough to improve women’s health?

Karin Smith, MP and Minister of State will give an introductory talk on the national picture of women’s health. This will be followed by a panel discussion on key issues for women’s health in Bristol. Is medical misogyny prevalent? What is the local women’s health hub? Are women still living longer lives in poorer health? Is women’s mental health taken seriously?

Panellists: Kyra Bond- CEO, Womankind; Joanna Copping (or representative)- Consultant in Public Health; Dr. Geeta Iyer – GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer, BNSSG ICB; Sonah Paton (or representative)- Founding Director, Black Mothers Matter; Karin Smyth MP and Minister of State

Chair: Dr. Penny Gane- Chair, West of England Women’s Commission and Health Task Force co-chair

15:45-17:00 | Women in STEM

Our Women in STEM Panel will highlight key themes and insights about improving representation, accessibility, and relatability for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. The participation of women in STEM is not just a matter of equity but a necessity for innovation and progress. The panel discussion will address systemic barriers, celebrate success stories, and show how we can foster inclusive environments to empower more women to excel in STEM and shape the future of these critical fields.

Panellists: Dr. Neha Chandarana – Engineering Lecturer, UOB; Cathy Coldrey – Associate Geographic Information Systems Consultant, AECOM; Carla Denyer – Green MP Bristol Central and co-Chair of the Green Party; Helen Barrow, Managing Director for Power Generation UK, Ireland and Africa; Kaz Self – Labour Councillor South Mead Ward in Bristol

Chair: Alice Hulme – Global Client Engagement Director, Rise Technical and Bristol Women’s Voice Trustee

10:30-12:00 | Women and Faith

This panel brings together inspiring women of different religions to talk about their experiences of the barriers and opportunities for women in faith settings. As more people are turning to religion in urban and youth settings, they will discuss the particular opportunities for women to lead in community development, cohesion and harmony.

Panellists: Abir Ahmed, Director of Home 2 School Link and Teacher at Tawfiq Mosque and Centre, Barton Hill; Reverend Dr Dawnecia Palmer, Peacemakers Prayer Patrols; Reverand Sally Spencer, Bedminster Methodist Church

Chair: Lahkraj Minhas, sustainability lead, lawyer, Bristol Women’s Voice trustee

12:15-13:45 | Women and Economic Justice

The cost-of-living crisis is gendered, and it is intersectional. As Bristol City Council tightens its belt, what does this mean for women’s inequality? Our panel of experts, academics and decision-makers discuss their own lived experience and that of the communities they work with, to explore how we can support and hold each other accountable for creating greater economic equality for women.

Panellists: Carina Andrews – Carer and Co-Director, Invisible Army CIC; Sara Davies – Associate Professor in Household Finance, Bristol Poverty Institute; Tony Dyer – Leader of Bristol City Council; Sado Jirde – CEO, Black Southwest Network; Sado Jirde – CEO, Black Southwest Network; Katy Taylor – Director, Bristol Women’s Voice

Chair: Aisha Thomas – Founder, Representation Matters

14:00 – 15:40 | Women in Media

The media panel will explore the challenges women face in the media industry, focusing on areas where change is needed to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women. This discussion will also highlight inspiring examples of women who have achieved success in the field, offering hope and motivation for those navigating similar challenges.

Panellists: Sian Norris – Journalist and copywriter specialising in reporting and investigations into women’s rights; Jheni Osman – Science journalist, author and presenter; Miranda Rae – Founder of Sound Women SW, Station Manager of Ujima Radio; Dr Theresa Trimmel – Film and television scholar, The University of Bristol; Shanay Bowen, Creative Multi-Media Producer, Ujima Radio

Chair: Priyanka Raval – reporter at The Cable specialising in the world of work, race and racism, and social movements.

15:45-17:00 | Women in Art

This panel will explore the ways we can reshape the arts industry to be more accessible for women. Panellists will address key issues such as underrepresentation, economic barriers, and the impact of caring responsibilities on women’s arts careers. The discussion will also highlight the importance of female role models, the power of art to challenge inequity, inspire change, and look at ways that we as women can redefine what constitutes as success in the arts.

Panellists: Ros Martin – award-winning playwright, poet, artist, experimental theatre & film maker based in Bristol; Vandna Mehta – Co-founder, Diverse Artists Network; Jo Plimmer – Senior Arts Development Officer, Bristol City Council
Clare Reddington – CEO, Watershed; Ani Stafford-Townsend – Green Councillor and Chair of the Culture Board at Bristol City Council

Chair: Alice Ballantine Dykes – Founding Director, Mama Coaching and leader of Mothers in Music Network

10:30-11:15 | Can We Make Change Happen? Learning From and With Older Women

Join the Bristol Older People’s Forum (BOPF) Trustees for a workshop and conversation for older women exploring this question in a supportive space. BOPF advocates for equality, challenges ageism, and promotes an age-friendly city.

11:30-12:15 | Annie Townley: A Life

Professor of Modern British History, June Hannam shares the inspiring journey of Annie Townley, a Lancashire textile worker turned suffragette and Labour Party organiser. This talk highlights the challenges and opportunities for working-class women in activism, focusing on Townley’s personal and emotional struggles within the suffrage and labour movements. It has been arranged by the Bristol Radical History Group.

12:30-13:15 – Child-free Women: An interactive discussion with Cactus Counselling

A discussion with Hayley Watkins about what it means to be childless or childfree, and how we can all support each other in choosing and maintaining an alternative life path.

13:30-14:15 – Community Leadership & The History of Rastafari Women in Bristol

This workshop, led by Emperess from the Kuumba Centre, explores the vital role of Rastafari women in Bristol, highlighting their leadership and influence within the community. Attendees will gain insight into key cultural values, including hair, clothing, diet, language, and traditional practices.

14:30-16:15 – Women’s Open Mic

Hosted by youth-led charity Integrate UK, this event celebrates incredible emerging and established female talent in Bristol. Registrations from 2:30pm, performances from 3:00pm. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, come showcase your skills—rhymes, rhythms, and more. All women performers welcome! A guitar and mic provided.

11:30-12:15 – Latin-American Women’s Activism: Mothers and Grandmothers of Plaza de Mayo

In this workshop ran by Latinas in Bristol, learn about a women-led peaceful resistance movement against the military dictatorship and repression in Argentina and their powerful legacy.

12:30-13:15 – A Day in the Life of a Kurdish Woman

This workshop is led by Kwestan Omer from Aynda Group; it offers a unique chance to learn, share, and celebrate the vibrant experiences of Kurdish women and their diverse contributions. Explore the daily life of Kurdish women, from the differences between employed and unemployed women to the rich culture, lifestyle, and cuisine.

13:30-14:15 – ‘Ten outstanding Polish women who changed the world for the better’

Join Polish women’s organisation, Opoka, as they celebrate International Women’s Day by recalling the profiles of ten outstanding Polish women who have changed our world for the better through their exceptional work.

14:30-15:15 – Heart Felt Crafting with Mothers for Mothers

Join us to make and decorate a purple felt heart. As we craft together there will be opportunity to discuss and share understanding and experience of perinatal mental illness and isolation, as well as how creativity can help us discover or rediscover new ways to be.

15:30 -16:15 – Menstrual and Reproductive Health

Rebel Girls Club’s Hannah Burton, a holistic women’s health practitioner, will be exploring menstrual, reproductive and menopausal health. She’ll share how understanding our cycles empowers action toward health equity. Together we can accelerate progress towards equality by championing education and tailored care for women’s unique health needs.

10:30-11:15 – Family Nature Art Workshop

Explore nature through art in this fun, hands-on, creative workshop led by Black2Nature for children and parents. Using natural materials like leaves, flowers and sticks, you and your child will connect with nature to create a nature-inspired art piece.

11:30-12:15 – Self-care Tools and Techniques to Calm the Nervous System

Looking after ourselves is integral to our mental health and wellbeing. Women’s busy lives and caring responsibilities often get in the way of this. This workshop ran by Womankind will explore exercises and activities you can use to calm your nervous system. Come prepared to try some calming techniques and get creative!

12:30-13:15 – Sound Waves of Change

Join Mose-Issie in this dynamic workshop celebrating storytelling, activism, and community. Share your voice, create a mini-podcast, and discover the power of sound in amplifying the stories that matter and the powerful voices of women of colour in LGBT+ spaces. Let’s make noise together, with passion and pride!

13:30-14:15 – Glimmers and Hacky Sacks

In this calming activity hosted by SARSAS (Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support), you will learn about ‘glimmers’ the opposite of a trigger, as well as how to create and use hacky sacks – round bags filled with colourful sand that are great for squishing, catching and throwing that activate the brains pause button.

14:30-15:45 – TBA soon

10:30-11:15 – Spice making with Somali Kitchen

The workshop is a fun, interactive way to deepen your knowledge of the spices and flavour of Somali food. Guided by expert instructors, this workshop provides tools and tips for making signature blends, perfect for elevating home-cooked meals. Learn about the different spices used in Somali cuisine and beverages, the benefits, and the techniques of crafting aromatic spice mixes using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

11:30-12:15 – An introduction to trauma-informed practice

What does it mean to be ‘trauma-informed?’ This interactive session will explore how to make your spaces and ways of working more supportive for people who have experienced trauma. Led by One25, a Bristol-based charity with 30 years’ experience of working with women who street sex work.

12:30-13:15 – Feminist Leadership in Practice

This interactive taster workshop invites you to self-reflect, collectively explore and discuss feminist leadership principles in practice. We will be looking at power dynamics in society, tools and skills to be feminist leaders e.g. active listening, communication styles, consent, boundaries and more. No prior knowledge of feminist principles is necessary. Led by Bristol Women’s Voice.

13:30-14:15 – Shade: A Discussion on Colourism

The workshop offers a discussion on youth-led charity, Integrate UK’s latest resource on colourism. The resource explores the story of two friends who face increasing pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty ideals when experiencing colourism from society, peers and family as well as within their respective communities.
14:30-15:15 – Collaging for Sisterhood with Next Link

A chance to get creative in a safe listening space, where we will discuss the impact of male violence on women’s lives. You’ll be provided with all the materials to create a postcard to give to an inspiring woman in your life, or to keep for yourself – you are inspiring after all!

15:30 -16:15 – The Powerhouse Voice of Women

Join Orgena Rose for a singing workshop to honour and amplify the unstoppable force of women’s voices. Orgena’s artivism through song has inspired change—find out how you can do the same. Honour voices that have been silenced, doubted, and oppressed by connecting with your powerhouse voice. Through this workshop, we also invite you to participate in the closing performance with the women’s choir Orgena runs in association with Bristol Women’s Voice.

10:30-11:15 – Bristol Women’s Voice roundtable consultation

Come and find out more about who we are, what we do, what we’re working on and why. This is also your opportunity to give us feedback and to tell us about the issues important to you that you think should be raising with decision makers in the city.

11:30-12:15 – Sadaga Group Henna Workshop

This workshop explores the artistic and cultural significance of henna in Arab countries, covering its history, symbolism, and the process of creating henna paste. Participants will then design their own henna patterns, followed by a Q&A session to share experiences and insights, inspired by these rich cultural traditions.

12:30-13:15 – Even More Women Who Built Bristol

This week, the third volume of Jane Duffus’ series ‘The Women Who Built Bristol’ is published, celebrating another 250 overlooked sheroes from our city’s past. Join Jane for this brand new talk where she will share more of the forgotten women who helped shape our city.

13:30-14:15 – ‘Hidden voices’ Performance with the Misfits poetry group

Misfits poetry group is a creative, inclusive space for learning disabled adults to explore their voices through poetry. Their performance celebrates empowerment, individuality and stories that resonate to the wider world, showcasing voices that inspire connection and understanding. Together, they create a vibrant celebration of resilience, creativity and community.

14:30-15:30 – Q&A with the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner

Join us to put your questions about women’s safety directly to Police and Crime Commissioner, Clare Moody. This is your chance to engage in a meaningful conversation and gain insights into the steps being taken to ensure safety and security for women and other marginalised people in our communities.

10:30-11:15 – Latin American Dance Workshop with ‘Latin Folk’

An engaging Latin American dance workshop that invites participants to explore the vibrant rhythms and dynamic movements of different regions. This immersive experience combines cultural storytelling with step-by-step guidance, making it perfect for dancers of all levels.

11:30-12:15 – Seated Pilates with Mim

This chair-based class offers a low-impact, gentle Pilates session for people who find it difficult to get down to the floor and prefer the support of a chair. The class focuses on improving strength, balance, coordination, and mobility to enhance everyday activities and help you feel good in your body!

12:30-13:15 – Bristol Girl First Mates

Come and join us at one of our flagship events, for a fun, easy way to meet new people in Bristol. Think speed dating—but for friends! With cue cards to spark conversation and friendly hosts to help, this event brings the fun back into meeting people for the first time.

13:30-14:15 – My Body Moves: Body Positive Dance Class with Libby Farrow

My Body Moves is a carnival dance, burlesque and cajon drum fusion, promoting body positivity and self-confidence. Taught with zero judgement, much respect and buckets of humour, this is all about feeling good and enjoying yourself. My Body Moves…… So does yours.

14:30-15:15 – Introduction to Laughter Yoga

Join Sophie Shirt in taking a few minutes out of the day to feel your feet on the ground, connect with your breath and get your feelgood vibes flowing. Laughter has so many benefits; come along and find out more

15:30-16:15 – The Rhythm of Rising: Spotlight on Black Women who have accelerated change

Black Women Let Loose Theatre Company will deliver an interactive performance to unearth the stories and highlight the accomplishments of Black Women who gave accelerated change.

10:30-11:15 – Why Women’s Centres work as an alternative to prison

This workshop ran by the Nelsons Trust will discuss what women’s centres are, why are they needed and why do they work. We will also consider how a women’s centre could be used as an alternative to custody and look at why supporting from a Women’s Centre could be a more suitable pathway than prison.

11:30-12:15 – Radical Retiree: Re-imagining the narrative for older women

Join Elanora Ferry, an age activist, as she discusses her journey as co-researcher on Connecting Through Culture As We Age, a Bristol University research programme (2021- 2024). Elanora will share films that illustrate creative ways of subverting popular negative images and prejudices around ageing, particularly for women.

12:30-13:15 – Understanding and Managing Menopause

In this workshop, Hazel Hayden, Consultant Nurse and British Menopause Society Registered Specialist will explore what menopause is and how to manage symptoms physically, mentally and medically. The talk will be followed by a Q&A at the end.

13:30- 14:15 – Healing Through Poetry: The Unspoken Stories of Refugee Women

Listen to long-term supporter and friend of Refugee Women of Bristol, Kaltun Duale read a collection of poems which highlight the varied and diverse experiences of refugee women and explore how poetry can be a powerful tool for healing and coping with past trauma.

14:30- 15:15 – DIY Body Butter Workshop

Join Wadziie’s little shop for a hands-on workshop where you’ll customise pre-made, all-natural body butter. Take home your handmade creations and enjoy the ultimate self-care experience! Suitable for children, but all ages welcome.

15:30-16:15 –BLAST! From the Past: Bristol Lesbians and Self-Organised Tales

Come along and learn about the history of self-organised lesbian groups in Bristol from the 1970s to the present. Gain insight into these vital movements, whilst also sharing your own stories and memories to add to BLAST’s collective map.

10:30 – 15:00 – Shining a Light on Care: All Day Lantern Making

Join Bristol Women’s Voice and Lamplighter artists CIC to get involved in creating Protest Lanterns for the upcoming shining a light on care lantern procession on Saturday 22nd March . An opportunity for Mothers, carers, those receiving care, to have your voices heard & seen. Drop-in throughout the day. All ages welcome, no experience needed, materials provided.

15:15 – 16:30 – DIY Confidence: Skills for Your Home talk & Drop-In

Caroline from Be Practical DIY will share how mastering DIY skills can empower you to manage home issues proactively. From 3pm onwards there will be a drop-in where you can get hands-on experience learning the drilling basics and discuss any DIY dilemmas and issues you might have. Limited capacity

FOYER

In Our Image – Bristol Women’s Voice Younger Women’s Forum

Through powerful visuals of women’s hands and the heartfelt words of young women who have shared their experiences and thoughts on safety in the city, this interactive exhibit invites you to connect, reflect and add your voice to the conversation. Together, we can imagine a safer Bristol for all.

Feminist Archive South – The Southern Branch of the Feminist Archive

Explore a display of books featuring replicas of posters from the Feminist Archive South collection. These posters highlight key feminist events, marches, and demonstrations, including international solidarity marches and iconic movements like Greenham Common and Reclaim the Night. Visitors can view the materials and engage in discussions with the curator throughout the day.

THE VESTIBULES

The Vestibules are two former entrances located at either end of City Hall. The venues, run by Artspace Lifespace, aim to showcase Bristol talent and give cultural and community groups unique environments to display their work.

Bristol Women’s Voice thank Artspace Lifespace for their help with making these events happen.

To access the exhibitions, please use the former vestibule entrance to City Hall on Park Street. There will be a board outside directing you to the space.

Accessibility Information: the Park Street Vestibule is fully wheelchair accessible. Unfortunately, there is no toilet access for visitors through the Vestibules, toilets are located inside City Hall.

The Voices of Carers (Unpaid) – Invisible Army

This exhibition features 32 carers’ stories told through photographs and written narratives, highlighting the diverse experiences of young, elder, Global Majority, LGBT+, male and female carers. This exhibit seeks to show a true representation of the caring community and to raise awareness of the often-unseen contributions of carers in our communities.

Instructions not Included – Amanda Hall

This collaborative intergenerational art project delves into the experiences of women and girls with ageing. Launched in September 2023, it invited more than 60 women to transform old, worn swimming costumes, embellishing the fabric as a way to explore their feelings and the societal assumptions that are made about ageing.

OUTSIDE

Raising the Red – The Red Dress Crafters  

Raising the Red is an outdoor art installation inspired by Indigenous artist Jaime Black’s work and created by Ros Martin to honour women affected by violence. Featuring 34 red dresses made by 20 different crafters, each dress represents a story of a woman impacted by violence.

10:15 – 11:15 | Guided walk to Brandon Hill with Girls Who Walk Bristol

Join Girls Who Walk Bristol, a Bristol-based, women-led collective who host fortnightly walks, providing a safe space for women to be active and make new friends. Meet at College Green at 10:15am, where the team will be wearing lanyards and pink hi-vis. Enjoy a relaxed, social, circular walk around Brandon Hill, lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, before heading to City Hall to attend the event together. Please note that there are some steep hills along the route, but they will do their best to adjust the path to suit everyone’s needs. If you have any accessibility needs or concerns, please contact Girls Who Walk Bristol before the walk, and we’ll be happy to assist. For more details on the walk, visit @girlswhowalkbristol on Instagram.

13:00- 14:00 | Chalk for Change | Outside City Hall

Join Ros Martin, one of the artists involved in Raising the Red Project, outside City Hall for some chalk craftivism. We will represent ourselves and the women in our lives that inspire us, past and present, in symbols, quotes, drawings using chalk. All ages and persons welcome.

13:00 – 16:30 | Reflection Zone | The Foyer

At Bristol Women’s Voice, we value your feedback—share your thoughts and reflections on this year’s event and suggest what themes you would like to see from us for next year’s event using our interactive feedback boards. Your feedback helps shape future celebrations and ensures we keep connecting and inspiring our community.

10:00 – 10:15 | Opening Remarks

We are pleased to welcome Councillor Lisa Stone, Green Party Lead Elected Member for Women, to deliver an opening address alongside Shoba Ram, Bristol Women’s Chair co-chair and Katy Taylor, Bristol Women’s Voice Director.

10:15 – 10:30 | Opening Performance

Dancers from Latin Folk, a women-led, Bristol-based Latin American dance group, will kickstart the day with a vibrant performance, bringing the region’s rich cultural heritage to life through dynamic rhythms and colourful costumes.

16:15 – 16:30 | Close: Choir Performance

Orgena Rose will lead the women and non-binary choir she runs in association with Bristol Women’s Voice, in songs of freedom to close the day. The performance will be held in the Foyer.