WOW Alexandria

A group of people sat down in a large historical room with big windows, gold details on the walls. They are sat in a semi-circle, and one person is speaking and is holding a microphone.

WOW Alexandria took place on 24 September 2014 as part of the BAB ELBAHR Festival, marking WOW’s debut in Egypt and Africa. This one-day festival unfolded against a backdrop of urgent political and social shifts, including the passing of a landmark law criminalising sexual harassment.

In partnership with the Agora Centre for Arts and Culture and the British Council in Egypt, WOW Alexandria provided an open, public platform for discussing how these legal changes were affecting women’s lives across Egypt. Community leaders, grassroots activists, artists, and cultural practitioners came together to reflect on the power of civic action, legislation and creative expression in the pursuit of gender justice.

About the organisers

WOW Alexandria was produced by the Agora Centre for Arts and Culture.

The BAB ELBAHR Festival was first held in Alexandria in 2014 as part of an initiative launched by the Agora Center for Culture and Arts. BAB ELBAHR (which means 'Sea Gate') aims at strengthening cultural tourism and embedding culture in the daily life of people. The Festival featured discussions, debates, workshops and exhibitions and performances. It took place during 20-26 September 2014.

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