Pakistani Women Pioneers Podcast

Her Zameen Her Asman: Celebrating Pakistani Women Leaders
 
Join us at the Spirit of Pakistan for an inspiring event, "Her Zameen Her Asman," as we proudly profile the remarkable journeys of talented female leaders within the Pakistani community. This vibrant celebration of the successes achieved by women of Pakistani origin in British society will be hosted by the internationally recognized Pakistani journalist, Saima Haroon.
 
Prepare to be moved by inspiring stories of success from women who have blazed trails, overcome challenges, and shattered stereotypes. Through intimate conversations and engaging presentations, they'll share their unique paths, the pivotal moments that shaped their careers, and the wisdom gained along the way. This isn't just about recognizing achievements; it's about understanding the dedication, resilience, and vision behind them.
 
Our aim is to empower the next generation by connecting them with these incredible role models. Hear firsthand how these leaders navigate their professional and personal lives, balancing heritage with modern aspirations. "Her Zameen Her Asman" offers a unique opportunity for networking, mentorship, and igniting the spark of ambition in young minds. Come and be part of a movement that champions strong, successful Pakistani women and helps pave the way for future leaders.

Pakistan Cultural Fashion Show

Geet Kahani

Geet Kahani: A Journey Through Pakistani Heritage
 
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Pakistani culture with Geet Kahani, a captivating 3-hour workshop celebrating the heart and soul of Pakistan's musical and storytelling traditions. As a highlight of Spirit of Pakistan Week, this interactive event invites you to explore the rich artistic legacy of a nation through an engaging blend of folk songs, ancient oral traditions, and compelling cultural narratives.
 
Led by talented artists, Geet Kahani offers a unique opportunity to experience live performances and participate in interactive storytelling sessions. Discover the rhythms that have echoed through generations and the tales that have shaped a people.
 
This workshop is more than just a performance; it's a creative space designed to honour, explore, and connect with Pakistan's profound and diverse heritage.
 
Join us for an unforgettable cultural journey right here at the Spirit of Birmingham Festival!

Pakistan Truck Arts / Calligraphy Workshops

Islamic Calligraphy for Kids: A Creative Journey
 
Join us for a vibrant and engaging workshop, hosted by the wonderful Sameea Rahat, where young artists can discover the beauty of Islamic calligraphy! As part of the Spirit of Pakistan Festival, this session is perfectly tailored for kids and young girls to learn and express their creativity.
 
We'll start with a super fun, speedy 15–20 minute introduction to the fascinating history and origins of Islamic calligraphy – don't worry, it's anything but boring!
 
Then, the true artistic adventure begins! Each child will receive their very own mini art kit, complete with a brush and colourful paints. Together, we'll dive into the enchanting world of Arabic letters, exploring their three fundamental shapes through hands-on painting, colour, and boundless imagination. It’s an unmissable opportunity for your child to learn a beautiful art form in a playful, interactive environment!
 
Truck Art Fun Workshop for Kids! by Sima Yacoob
 
Come and enjoy a fun, hands-on workshop inspired by the bright and beautiful world of South Asian truck art!
 
Kids will get to:
 
🖌️ Stamp Colourful Truck Art Designs – Use stamps and bold colours to decorate a truck illustration with traditional patterns.
 
📚 Design a Truck Art Bookmark – Create your own bookmark using truck art shapes, stamps, and uplifting words to take home.
 
🖍️ Colour-In Truck Art Sheets – Relax and enjoy colouring fun truck-inspired designs with your own creative flair.
 
📸 Pose at the Selfie Truck Spot – Snap a fun photo in front of our colourful truck art backdrop!
 
Suitable for ages 5–12. All materials provided – just bring your imagination!

Pakistan Tourism Workshop

Is Pakistan on Your Travel Map? Discover the Unseen!
 
Step beyond the headlines and explore the true essence of Pakistan at this captivating event. Curated by Anam Hussain, award-winning founder of Capra Falconeri Traveller magazine and Al Jazeera instructor, this immersive experience invites you to rediscover Pakistan.
 
Wander through our "Must-Do Pakistan" exhibit, a visual feast showcasing 10 incredible travel experiences with stunning visuals, engaging story hooks, and QR codes for deeper dives. Capture your memories at our Pakistan-themed photo wall, and explore unique souvenirs.
 
Anam Hussain delivers a powerful keynote: "Why I Started a Pakistan Travel Magazine," sharing insights on storytelling and personal connections. Join our insightful panel discussion: "Is Pakistan on Your Travel Map?" featuring travel experts, diaspora members, and seasoned travelers. They'll debunk myths, share real stories, discuss safety, and offer fresh perspectives on first-time visits and rediscovering Pakistan through a new lens. An audience Q&A will bridge the gap between fascination and any lingering concerns.
 
Professor Mike Robinson will then explore "Reconnecting with Heritage Through Tourism," offering empowering perspectives for diaspora youth on why revisiting the 'homeland' can foster new connections to heritage, identity, and belonging. Conclude with a beautiful video or poetry performance. This event is perfect for all, especially diaspora youth, students, and travel enthusiasts looking to be inspired and plan their next adventure!

Pakistan Bazaar

Musical Concert

An Evening with Mazhar Rahi
 
Get ready to experience the vibrant heart of Pakistani music as we welcome the sensational Mazhar Rahi for an unforgettable concert! As a true highlight of our Spirit of Pakistan Week, this is your chance to witness one of Pakistan's most beloved stars live on stage.
 
Mazhar Rahi, renowned for his captivating voice and a string of chart-topping hits such as "Khandani Nawab" and "Menu Lay Chal Us Mulk Tu Sath," promises an evening filled with powerful melodies and soul-stirring performances. From his biggest anthems to his latest tracks, prepare to be swept away by the energy and passion that define his unique sound.
 
This isn't just a concert; it's a celebration of Pakistani culture and musical artistry that you won't want to miss.
 
Join us for a night of rhythm, harmony, and pure entertainment!
 
BUY TICKETS HERE

Photo Exhibition Launch and Panel Discussion

Morgah Memories: A Photo Exhibition by Mukhtar Dar
 
Discover "Morgah Memories," a deeply personal and poetic photo exhibition by celebrated Birmingham artist and cultural activist Mukhtar Dar, premiering this month as part of the Spirit of Birmingham Festival.
 
This evocative collection of 30 full-colour photographs offers a rare glimpse into Morgah, Mukhtar's ancestral village on the outskirts of Rawalpindi, known in folklore as "the Land of Peacocks." Through his lens, Mukhtar captures the quiet beauty of sunlit courtyards, weathered doorways, and the silent grace of ordinary people. He beautifully portrays the mystical light of Pakistan, particularly the dusty, red glow of the ancient Raja Bazaar in Rawalpindi.
 
More than just a visual journey, "Morgah Memories" is a heartfelt tribute to the unsung stories etched into the fabric of everyday life. For Birmingham's large Pakistani diaspora, it’s a mirror, connecting two homes and two heartlands. This exhibition beautifully reclaims the narrative of Pakistan—multi-faceted, poetic, and powerful.
 
Join us for this visual meditation on memory, belonging, and the enduring spirit of a nation.

Mango Festival

Experience the Taste of Pakistan at the Soho Road Mango Festival!
 
Get ready for a vibrant celebration of the king of fruits! The Spirit of Pakistan Festival, in collaboration with the Soho Road Business Improvement District, is thrilled to present a unique Mango Festival right here in Birmingham.
 
Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary journey featuring the sweetest, most succulent mangoes imported directly from Pakistan – a country renowned globally for producing the finest varieties. Local businesses along the bustling Soho Road will be showcasing their incredible talent, creating an array of delicious food and drinks, all crafted with these exquisite Pakistani mangoes.
 
This is your chance to savor the authentic taste of Pakistan and discover innovative mango-infused delights, all while supporting the fantastic businesses that make Soho Road so special. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to experience the true spirit of Pakistan through its most beloved fruit!

Independence Day Cricket Match - High Commission XI v Birmingham XI

Celebrate Independence Day with an exhilarating 20-over cricket match! Witness a thrilling showdown between the Pakistan High Commissioner's XI and a star-studded Birmingham team, featuring former professional and international cricketers.
 
This highly anticipated match promises an afternoon of top-tier cricket, showcasing incredible talent and competitive spirit. Join us at the home of Pickwick Cricket Club in Birmingham for a fantastic day out, perfect for all cricket enthusiasts and families. Come and cheer on your favourite players in what's sure to be a memorable fixture!

Qawalli Performance - Sayarts

Qawwali in the Sun: Chahat Mahmood Ali
 
Experience the soul-stirring power of Qawwali with Chahat Mahmood Ali, a rising star from a celebrated musical lineage, trained by Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. As part of Spirit of Pakistan Week, this open-air concert invites you to witness an authentic and electrifying performance at the Outdoor Theatre in the MAC.
 
At just 21, Chahat's mastery of traditional Sufi poetry and his dynamic ensemble—featuring harmoniums, percussion, and chorus—builds from meditative melodies to ecstatic crescendos.
 
Expect beloved classics like "Dum Mast Qalandar" and "Tumhe Dillagi" in a truly immersive experience. Having graced stages at the Southbank Centre and Bristol Beacon, Chahat now brings his heartfelt tribute to Qawwali legends like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to you.
 
Join us for a vibrant, communal evening perfect for both new audiences and long-time Sufi music fans!

Business Breakfast

Flag Raising Ceremony

Celebrate Pakistan Independence Day in Birmingham!
 
Join us for a momentous occasion as we proudly commemorate Pakistan Independence Day with an official flag-raising ceremony right outside the Birmingham City Council House. This special event will take place on August 14th, a day of great significance for the Pakistani community worldwide.
 
We are honored to host esteemed guests including the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, local councillors, and the Consul General from the Pakistan High Commission in Birmingham. Their presence underscores the strong bonds between Birmingham and Pakistan, and the importance of this celebration to our city's diverse communities.
 
This ceremony is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together, witness the raising of the Pakistani flag, and show solidarity with the Pakistani diaspora in Birmingham. It's a chance to reflect on the history and achievements of Pakistan, and to celebrate the vibrant culture it brings to our city. Don't miss this poignant and inspiring event!

Independence Day Reception

Celebrate Pakistan Independence Day at the Consulate!
 
Get ready for an evening of fun, excitement, and delicious food as the Pakistan Consulate in Birmingham, on behalf of the Pakistan High Commission, hosts a special reception to celebrate Pakistan Independence Day!
 
Join the vibrant Pakistani community and friends at the Consulate offices for an unforgettable evening commemorating this significant day. It's a fantastic opportunity to mingle, connect, and celebrate the rich culture and heritage of Pakistan right here in Birmingham.
 
Indulge in a delightful array of authentic Pakistani cuisine, soak in the festive atmosphere, and be part of a joyous gathering that brings everyone together in a spirit of unity and celebration. Don't miss this chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Pakistani community as we mark this important occasion. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

Aston Villa Academy v Pakistan Street Kids Team Football Match

Spirit of Pakistan Week: Aston Villa Academy vs. Muslim Hands Street Football Team
 
As part of Spirit of Pakistan Week, join us for a truly special football match at the Aston Villa Inner City Academy. Witness an inspiring encounter as an Aston Villa Academy team takes on the incredible Muslim Hands Street Football Team, also known as Muslim Hands FC.
 
This remarkable team of street-connected children from Pakistan participates in international tournaments like the Norway Cup. They're supported by Muslim Hands, a UK-based humanitarian organization, through their "Maidaan" project, which champions "Sports for Development."
 
Come and experience an afternoon of exciting football, celebrating talent, resilience, and the power of sport to change lives. It's an event not to be missed!

Performance Finale

We are pleased to host a finale of Spirit of Pakistan at Soul City Arts – following a week of celebrating Pakistan’s rich musical heritage and culture – an evening filled with the traditions of Ghazal and Qawwali singing, as well as spoken word and poetry.
 
Artists from Birmingham will bring these legacies to life through the flute, harmonium, and tabla in our ‘Port Hope’ warehouse venue in Sparkbrook, Birmingham.
 
We set an immersive and intimate setting for this showcase, welcoming guests from across the city and beyond in a celebration of Pakistan’s culture and its impact on Birmingham.