This panel aims to shed new light on the Muslim female world of the Arabian Gulf, given the rising role of women in education, politics, culture and the media in this region. The relationship between culture and communication has been changing, and women are more and more active protagonists of this process.

The three speakers, Dr. Rafiah Al-Talei, Dr. Hend T. Alsudairy and Dr. Mira Al Hussein from Oman, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are researchers specializing in feminist movements and women’s rights. They will discuss their direct and personal experiences, and their research on feminist trends in the Gulf Arab region, addressing the social reactions to feminism in their respective countries, more and more involved within the international debates and intercultural dialogue, at the global level. All of this makes the panel of interest both to the lay person and to experts of the region.

Hosted by: Dr. Elena Maestri, – Catholic University of the Sacred Heart – Italy

Speakers:

Dr. Hend T. Alsudairy – Saudi Arabia

Dr. Mira Al Hussein – UAE

Dr. Rafiah Al-Talei – Oman

Chief Guest: High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Lorraine Worsley-Carter, MBE DL.

MACFEST’s mission is: celebrating arts, diversity and connecting communities. MACFEST, a winner of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, offers a rich feast of over 75 events from 18th February to July 30th, celebrating the rich heritage of the Muslim diaspora communities. It is founded and directed by Qaisra Shahraz MBE FRSA, British-Pakistani novelist, peace activist and culture champion.

www.macfest.org.uk