These conversations will explore some of the pressing issues of our time, offering an opportunity to listen, share and learn from those with deep insight, imagination and lived experience.

Themes will include global conflict, climate emergency, the role and future of faith / inter-faith in today’s world, the changing face of entertainment, local park history and the unifying power of sport.

This event is part of Tent of Hope – a day bringing together people of all faiths and none to reflect, connect, and celebrate Bradford’s rich diversity.

We’re delighted to have a brilliant range of contributors to this event:

• Professor Paul Rogers says “At times like this, it is more important than ever to look toward a hopeful future and to reflect on what we can do to bring it about”
• Professor Fozia Bora and Yahya Birt will provide insights about the Bradford Exhibition of 1904 that took place in Lister Park featuring the Somali Village. What can we learn from the past?
• Dr Kuldip Kaur Bharj, OBE, DL will be sharing her personal journey as a Sikh woman navigating a lifelong career in health care and reflecting on her hopes for the future.
• Ishtiaq Ahmed asks, “Faith has long played an integral role in shaping our city, but what role will it have in the future, if any?”
• Khalida Ashrafi explores how faith, the arts, comedy and activism are finding powerful expression through these mediums.
• The Dean of Bradford, Revd Andy Bowerman, invites us to reflect on the role of food and football in bringing people together, asking whether these connections are “frivolous or foundational?”

The Beacon is a custom-made touring venue for Bradford 2025.

From 28 August – 28 September, The Beacon will be at Lister Park.

Plan your visit below, or get in touch with us on [email protected] for more information.

Lister Park
North Park Road,
Bradford,
BD9 4NS