About the Author: Yasmin Alibhai-Brown
Yasmin Alibhai-Brown is a world acclaimed journalist who writes a weekly column for i. She was awarded Broadsheet Columnist of the Year at the 2017 Press Awards and was Highly Commended in the same category at the 2018 Press Awards, Yasmin has written for The Guardian, Observer, The New York Times, Time Magazine, Newsweek, The Evening Standard, the Mail and other newspapers. She is also a radio and television broadcaster and author of several books.
Speaker Series Inspired by
Ladies Who Punch by Yasmin Alibhai-Brown
🔸 Talk 1: Women Who Dare – Speaking Up and Standing Out
Summary:
Throughout history, progress has often depended on women who refused to stay silent. This talk celebrates the firebrands, truth-tellers, and everyday heroines who have dared to challenge injustice—from suffragettes and whistle-blowers to local campaigners and outspoken grandmothers. We explore the courage it takes to be “difficult” in a world that too often rewards female compliance—and how WI members can harness that spirit in their own communities.
🔸 Talk 2: Punching Through the Glass Ceiling
Summary:
Why do women still hit invisible barriers in politics, business, and the media? This session traces the journeys of trailblazing women—from MPs and CEOs to broadcasters and activists—who’ve broken through, despite enormous odds. It also looks at the quieter battles: raising your voice in a board meeting, running for parish council, or managing a community project. It’s a call to action for women of all ages to lift each other up and step into leadership with confidence.
🔸 Talk 3: Disagreeing Without Dividing – The Power of Honest Debate Among Women
Summary:
We often hear that women should “support other women”—but what happens when we disagree? This thought-provoking talk explores how healthy disagreement is not only inevitable but essential in a thriving community. Drawing from examples in Ladies Who Punch, we explore how women have clashed over politics, feminism, faith, and identity—while still working together for change. The WI has always been a space for diverse voices, and this session honours that tradition with tools for respectful debate.
🔸 Talk 4: Being Brave, Not Perfect – The Quiet Strength of Outspoken Women
Summary:
This gentle yet empowering talk speaks to women who might not see themselves as “rebels,” but who demonstrate courage every day. Whether it’s standing up to a family member, advocating for a neighbour, or sharing an unpopular opinion—these acts of bravery matter. Using stories from Ladies Who Punch, this session inspires WI members to value their own voices and recognise that change doesn’t always roar—it sometimes whispers.
🔸 Talk 5: From Polite to Powerful – Redefining the ‘Respectable Woman’
Summary:
For generations, women were praised for being “nice,” “modest,” and “respectable.” But what if those labels have held us back? This talk explores how strong women—from Emmeline Pankhurst to Malala Yousafzai—have often been branded “difficult,” “loud,” or “unwomanly.” We’ll look at the tension between how women are expected to behave and who we really are when we speak from the heart. It’s a celebration of dignity, not decorum—and of progress over politeness.
🔸 Talk 6: Outspoken and Overlooked – Voices from the Margins
Summary:
This inclusive session highlights the stories of women who are doubly silenced—because of race, class, disability, or religion. From immigrant women fighting for basic rights to working-class activists leading local change, we celebrate voices that challenge not just patriarchy but inequality in all its forms. Inspired by Yasmin’s own experience as a Ugandan-Asian woman, this talk honours the richness and resilience of women too often pushed to the edges of public life.
🔸 Talk 7: Sisterhood in Action – What Divides Us, What Unites Us
Summary:
What makes a strong sisterhood? This interactive talk explores what connects women across generations, backgrounds, and beliefs—and what sometimes threatens to divide us. Using real-life examples and thoughtful reflection, we’ll explore how empathy, listening, and shared purpose can heal rifts and build solidarity. Perfect for WI groups looking to deepen bonds and grow stronger together in challenging times.
🔸 Talk 8: Ordinary Women, Extraordinary Impact
Summary:
Not all heroes make headlines. This uplifting talk spotlights the quiet changemakers—like WI members—who volunteer, organise, campaign, and care for their communities. With examples drawn from across the UK, it’s a reminder that even the smallest actions can create ripples of change. A perfect closing session for a series, this talk leaves audiences energised, proud, and ready to make their own mark.
Tweets by @Yasmin Alibhai Brown