WOMEN IN THE SHADE CONFERENCE 2025

On Thursday 16th of January 2025, we will host our second conference in Birmingham. The title of the conference ‘The Power of Colour – What happens when we are not in the room.’

This unique and high-profile event will bring together people from a variety of uniformed services, other agencies and organisations, and the community to discuss and shape actions towards a future where every Black woman feels empowered, respected, and valued for her contributions. The gathering aims to foster meaningful dialogue, share experiences, and develop strategies that promote equality and inclusion within these sectors. 

Participants will include representatives from the police, fire services, military, health services, education, and community organisations, all working collaboratively to create a supportive and inclusive environment for Black women.

Using the skills, knowledge, experience and thought leadership we aim to deliver facilitated sessions, and panel discussions, we aim to:

• Empower Black Women: Highlight the achievements and      potential of Black women in uniformed services and other sectors,      fostering an environment where they feel empowered and confident to      contribute their best.
• Promote Respect and Recognition: Address the need for respect and      acknowledgment of Black women's contributions, ensuring their efforts are      valued and celebrated within their respective fields.
• Encourage Dialogue and Understanding: Facilitate open and honest      conversations about the challenges and opportunities Black women face,      promoting a deeper understanding and collaboration among participants.
• Shape Future Actions: Develop actionable strategies and      initiatives that organisations can implement to support and uplift Black      women, driving systemic change towards greater equality and inclusion.
• Build a Supportive Network: Create a robust network of allies and      advocates committed to fostering an inclusive environment where Black      women can thrive professionally and personally.

By addressing these goals, the event seeks to make a significant impact on the experiences of Black women in various professional and community settings, paving the way for a more inclusive and respectful future.

The conference will feature panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive sessions aimed at engaging participants in meaningful dialogue and action planning. It will be an opportunity for raising awareness, sharing experiences, and advocating for positive change. 

Key topics covered will include systemic biases, microaggressions, and strategies for promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity in organisational setting.

This event is primarily aimed at Black women working in uniform organisations, and the wider community. However, we encourage those in leadership positions from all levels and backgrounds who share a desire to heal division, eliminate racism, and advance anti-racism to create and sustain a more equitable society.

We welcome individuals and organisations across various sectors, including public and private sectors, civil society, and specialist areas such as education, health, and creative industries. 

This diverse group of participants will engage in discussions, share experiences, and develop actionable strategies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in their respective fields. Through collaboration and shared commitment, they aim to drive systemic change and create a more just and equitable society for all.

EARLY BIRD UNTIL 15TH DECEMBER 2024

Single Ticket - £99.00 per delegates

Group booking - £85.00 per delegates when booking 10 places or more

We anticipate a high demand for this key event, so make sure to book your place as soon as possible to secure your spot. 

We have various opportunities and packages dependant on your needs – with speaking, branding, and exhibition packages available. 

Sponsors and Partners are a key feature of the WITS. Sponsors and Partners help to keep the delegates’ fees as low as possible.  WITS will provide a high level of visibility to Sponsors and Partners.

By supporting Women in the Shade and our activities provides evidence of your ongoing commitment to corporate and social responsibility agenda.

 Join us by becoming a Friend of Women in the Shade, and stand as a supporter and advocate for our mission. 

With a £250 donation, you will not only contribute to the ongoing work of our organisation but also sponsor a young Black woman (aged 16-25) from the community to attend the Women in the Shade Conference 2025. 

With your consent, we will gratefully acknowledge your contribution in the conference programme and the post-conference report.