WOW Dhaka 2019 is a festival! With the help of our curators, we hoped to build a place of warmth, fun, and respect in our celebration of womanhood.
Despite the gravity and seriousness of the issues that hold women back, the festival - bold and broad-based in its approach - feed the demand to discuss anything and everything, bringing people together from all corners of society by energising and providing the inspiration and tools to make change happen.
WOW Dhaka 2019 was open for all. However, due to capacity restrictions, some sessions required pre-registration.
The festival featured:
Panel Discussions on
- Social norms, body, taboo
- Violence against women
- Men and masculinity
- Feminism
WOW Bites
Short talks, stories and performances on over 20 diverse themes were delivered by women from different walks of life. The subjects were either about women or subjects relevant to women. Speakers shared success stories, achievements, learnings and challenges that they have faced or are facing in their lives.
Marketplace
The WOW marketplace was home to a range of carefully selected stalls providing information, raising awareness, showcasing work, and selling their goods. Visitors could access information, do some shopping, participate in activities, discover creative products, network with others and enjoy the gerenal feel of the festival.
Pop-up performances
Curated exhibitions, film-screenings, performance arts and a full-fledged theatre production awaited visitors throughout the WOW Dhaka festival.
Under 10’s Feminist corner
WOW says feminism isn’t just for grown-ups and teenagers. It is also for young budding feminists aged 6 -10, who believe girls should have the same opportunities in life as boys. Interactive workshops, drumming and fun performances awaited all participants!
Speed mentoring
Participants enjoyed the rare opportunity of joining experts from across many fields including sports, mental health, digital and the arts, for 10 minutes one-on-one mentoring sessions.
Workshops
- Active Citizens
- Crowdfunding campaigns for a social cause
- I Can Protect Me (self-defence)
- Career counselling
- Behind the mixing board (sound designing)
- Let’s talk about consent
- Is cyberspace meant for women?
Live concert
WOW Dhaka 2019 featured some of the most talented local and international emerging artists performing on stage, with specially curated storytelling using lights and sounds.