Chaudhry Tabraiz Aurah
London:Pakistanis for Labour, an official organisation representing Pakistanis within the Labour Party, hosted a historic event in the British Parliament to mark International Women’s Day. The event, titled “Empowering British Pakistani Women: Breaking Barriers in the UK Economy,” attracted a diverse audience, including human rights activists, community leaders, and professionals from various fields.
Councillor Shahid Nadeem, Chair of Pakistanis for Labour, welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for their strong support. The gathering featured prominent Members of Parliament (MPs) and influential figures who underscored the vital role of women in society and the importance of gender equality.
Among the distinguished speakers were The Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State for the Department for Work and Pensions and MP for East Ham; Yasmin Qureshi, MP for Bolton South and Walkden and British Trade Envoy for Egypt; Imran Hussain, MP for Bradford East; Afzal Khan, MP for Manchester Rusholme and British Trade Envoy for Turkey; Mohammad Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston and British Trade Envoy for Pakistan; Tahir Ali, MP for Birmingham Hall Green; Bayo Alaba, MP for Southend and Rochford East; Natasha Irons, MP for Croydon East; Steve Witherden, MP for Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr; and Baggy Shanker, MP for Derby South.
Additionally, legal and community leaders, including Romana Kousar, a lawyer and businesswoman,Shagufta Nasreen, a community activist; Councillor Shahid Nadeem; and Alderman Mushtaq Lasharie CBE, addressed the audience, reinforcing the message of empowerment and progress.
Speakers highlighted the significance of International Women’s Day, emphasising that while women make up more than half of the population, they remain underrepresented in wealth, power, and leadership roles. They stressed that women, as the backbone of communities, deserve greater recognition for their contributions—both paid and unpaid—and called for economic justice, equitable access to opportunities, and increased support for women’s advancement in all sectors.
A key message from the event was the need for more platforms to encourage women from British Pakistani and other ethnic minority backgrounds to step forward, take leadership roles, and actively engage in politics and public life. The speakers urged communities to empower women, ensuring their voices shape the nation’s future.
The event concluded with high praise for Pakistanis for Labour and its organisers, with attendees lauding the initiative for its inspiring discussions and meaningful impact. The strong turnout and engagement reflected the community’s dedication to fostering change and breaking barriers for women in the UK economy.
Beyond a celebration, the event served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing work required to achieve true gender equality. It called upon all members of society to support and uplift women, ensuring their contributions are acknowledged and valued at every level.
