About – Spirit of Pakistan

Unveiling the Spirit of Pakistan in the UK!

The UK thrives on its diversity, and at its heart are over 1.6 million British Pakistanis, forming the nation’s second-largest ethnic minority. This vibrant community enriches every aspect of British life, yet their profound contributions in arts, culture, heritage, and sports often remain unsung on a national stage.

It’s time to change that.

Prepare for Spirit of Pakistan, a groundbreaking, seven-day national celebration from August 8th to 15th. While designed to attract audiences from across the UK, all our events will be proudly hosted in Birmingham. As a central hub with the UK’s second-largest Pakistani community, Birmingham is the perfect place to showcase the incredible talent, rich traditions, deep heritage, and spirited dynamism of British Pakistanis.

We’re building a unique platform, uniting established artists with emerging stars, seasoned athletes with passionate fans, and diverse communities. Spirit of Pakistan will forge connections and foster respect for every facet of Pakistani identity, right here in the heart of the UK.

Our ambitious programme is designed for everyone: captivating art exhibitions, soul-stirring music, thrilling sports, and vibrant cultural festivals. This is more than just a celebration; it’s a vital opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and showcase the boundless creativity and enduring legacy of the Pakistani community.

Spirit of Pakistan will be a truly unforgettable experience, enriching the UK’s cultural landscape for all, right here in Birmingham.

Come and celebrate with us!

When

Friday 8th August until Friday 15th August

Where

At various locations around Birmingham

Who

John Cooper Founder / Author

Message from the High Commissioner for Pakistan to the United Kingdom

I am delighted to endorse Spirit of Pakistan—a landmark festival celebrating Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and marking its Independence Day through a vibrant week of events and commemorations. Taking place in Birmingham from 8th to 15th August, this national celebration will showcase the many facets of Pakistani culture —including art, music, and sports —and pay powerful tribute to the remarkable contributions of British Pakistanis.

At the heart of the UK’s multicultural fabric are over 1.7 million British Pakistanis—one of the nation’s most accomplished and dynamic communities. Their contributions to every aspect of British life—across the arts, academia, business, politics, and sport—are both profound and enduring.

Birmingham, home to the country’s largest Pakistani community, provides the ideal setting for this vibrant celebration of talent, tradition, and heritage. Spirit of Pakistan reaffirms our collective commitment to embracing diversity and strengthening cross-cultural understanding.

Spirit of Pakistan is more than just a celebration—it is an inclusive platform that brings together international and home-grown talent, athletes, and communities. With captivating art exhibitions, soul-stirring music, thrilling sports events, immersive cultural programmes and vibrant street carnivals, it celebrates the richness of Pakistani culture and the enduring legacy of our diaspora.

This landmark initiative honours the resilience, generosity, and creativity at the heart of British Pakistani identity. By showcasing the full spectrum of Pakistani cultural expression—from the traditional to the contemporary—Spirit of Pakistan offers a dynamic space for our community to celebrate its heritage, reconnect with its roots, and share its story with pride. In doing so, it educates and inspires, forging meaningful engagement across Birmingham’s diverse communities and beyond.

This festival promises to be a truly unforgettable experience—enriching the UK’s cultural landscape and strengthening the enduring bonds between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. I commend the organisers for this important initiative and warmly invite everyone to be part of this inspiring celebration, showcasing the very best of Pakistani culture on this national stage.

Dr Mohammad Faisal

High Commissioner for Pakistan to the UK

A Message from the Chair

It is with immense pride and excitement that I introduce 'Spirit of Pakistan' – a celebration that truly embodies the vibrant essence of British Pakistani identity. This seven-day festival, rooted in the heart of Birmingham, is far more than just a series of events; it's a powerful statement about the incredible journey, profound contributions, and boundless potential of our community.

We are passionately dedicated to unearthing, nurturing, and championing the next generation of British Pakistani talent across the rich tapestries of arts, culture, heritage, and sports. This platform will provide vital, unparalleled opportunities for aspiring individuals to showcase their creativity, passion, and unique perspectives, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions not only recognised but celebrated on a grand stage.

Equally, 'Spirit of Pakistan' is a momentous occasion to honour our established success stories and the inspiring role models who have tirelessly paved the way. We celebrate those at the heart of government, shaping national policy and leading the biggest cities with integrity; individuals who have risen to the pinnacle, even captaining the English cricket team, uniting a nation with their skill. We recognise the countless dedicated professionals who are so prominent in our beloved NHS, working selflessly on the front lines and across the public sector, and the visionary leaders driving innovation and growth in the business sector.

British Pakistanis are not just succeeding; they are actively and positively transforming the very fabric of the UK. Their achievements are a testament to our community's resilience, hard work, and an unwavering, dynamic spirit.

Join us as we collectively celebrate this rich legacy, acknowledge the present triumphs, and inspire a future filled with even greater accomplishments. The Spirit of Pakistan is alive, thriving, and ready to shine for all to see!

Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE JP

Chair - ‘Spirit of Pakistan’

Event Speakers