A chance to celebrate, empower and accelerate action for women
On Tuesday, 4th March 2025, Birmingham Adult Education Service proudly hosted their second International Women’s Day conference at the Birmingham City University Conservatoire.
The day featured an array of inspirational speakers and engaging tasks. First, renowned for her motivational speeches and advocacy for women’s rights, Councillor Nicky Brennan delivered an electrifying keynote address. Her insights into gender equality and personal empowerment were particularly impactful, as learners in attendance felt represented by her story.
Abda Khan, an award-winning author, lawyer, and advocate for women’s rights, then took to the stage to share her inspiring journey. Her debut novel, Stained, tackled issues of abuse and resilience, reflecting Abda’s commitment to giving a voice to silenced women. Her words resonated with all who listened.
The Founder of Iron Lady Fitness CIC, Nazia Nureen, known for her remarkable strength and resilience, shared her journey of overcoming challenges and breaking barriers. Her story inspired attendees to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.
Code Your Future followed with a technology workshop. The organisation emphasised the importance of digital skills for women in the modern workforce, encouraging attendees to embrace tech opportunities. Many attendees connected the difficulties of moving to a new country and the peace learning can bring to a challenging time.
Later, Channa Payne-Williams, Birmingham City Council Public Health Programme Officer, gave an insight into her life and differences between women’s roles where she grew up, Jamaica, and in Birmingham where she now lives. By sharing her wealth of public health knowledge, especially for women, she empowered the audience with an easy three step system of breathe, reflect, move forward.
Adding a unique cultural dimension, Joyce and her Capoeira class showcased the Brazilian martial art that combines dance, acrobatics, and music. The performance was a celebration of physical strength and artistic expression. Attendees enjoyed a fabulous display before being invited onto the stage to engage in the beautiful and empowering art.
BAES’ performing arts group closed the event with the poem, Still I Rise, by Maya Angelou. They also performed a powerful piece without dialogue that embodied the demands of a mother, and the expectations and constant buzz that women face daily.
The event was superbly organised by the International Women’s Day Committee at Birmingham Adult Education Service. The committee’s dedication and vision brought together diverse speakers, creating an atmosphere of empowerment and action.
