Birmingham professionals plan “first ever” International Women’s Day event for Muslims

A gathering claiming to be Birmingham’s “first ever” Muslim focused International Women’s Day event is set to take place in Moseley next month.

Aiming to bring together inspirational female speakers for an evening of networking and motivational talks, the six-hour public showcase hopes to highlight the the achievements of Muslim women from Birmingham and provide career advice and leadership guidance to attending guests.

The line-up of speakers includes radio presenter Shabina Qayyum, solicitor Khatiza Bawa, professional coach Ambreen Khan, spoken word artist Hafsa Rehman, community pharmacist Gadah Agel and psychotherapist and social activist Salma Yaqoob.

While it’s billed as a ‘Career, Confidence and Leadership’ mini conference, organiser Rosie Khan from the Lunar Network hopes the event will encourage and inspire a new generation of women and girls to branch out into mainstream professional industries.

“I set myself the Challenge of putting together an evening of inspirational speakers in leadership from the Muslim community for the first ever Muslim focused International Women’s Day event in Birmingham.

“It was so hard to find Muslim women in leadership roles in Birmingham. I was surprised to see how few females are in senior roles in corporations, but Alhamdulillah (All praise to God) the women that I did contact across agreed to come on board with my initiative.

“This is a great evening for our community to recognise the achievements of these women and a true inspiration to many young professionals to help them in their careers whatever sector they may be in.”

The Lunar Network is a welcoming group for city professionals which uses social gatherings as a means of engaging conversation and promoting entrepreneurial dialogue.

Joining seasoned events organiser Rosie as co-host of the event will be charity head Zaheer Khan, who currently works as fundraising chief for Human Appeal UK.

The fun-filled evening – which has a “smart with something purple” dress code – will also include live instrumental music, a three-course halal authentic Indian cuisine menu, stalls from local businesses and inspirational speeches to empower young professionals.

International Women’s Day, celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, takes place annually on March 8.  With #PressForProgress as this year’s theme, the day marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

‘Career, Confidence and Leadership’ is being held at the Piquant Restaurant in Moseley Village on Sunday 11th March and will be open to men and women. Tickets are available here.