GM4Women2028’s annual event to feature Oldham councillor

GM4Women2028 is bringing its annual Dialogue, Deeds & Determination event to Rochdale tomorrow (Sat, July 4) uniting women, girls and male allies from Greater Manchester for a day of discussion, collaboration and action focused on advancing gender equality.

Taking place at Rochdale Library, the free event forms a pivotal part of GM4Women2028’s mission to make Greater Manchester a safer, fairer and more equal place for women and girls.  

While attendance is free, those registering are invited to make a voluntary contribution to support the charity’s ongoing work. 

Labour Councillor Arooj Shah is expected to attend and lead a workshop about women's participation in politics. It's called 'Rise, Roar, Represent: Participation pathways to politics' and is about getting more women into public life. 

With only three Dialogue, Deeds & Determination events remaining before the conclusion of the charity’s 10-year campaign in 2028, this year’s gathering is an important occasion to reflect on progress and shape future priorities. 

The event will assemble community organisations, charities, policymakers, equality advocates, local leaders and residents to examine the issues that matter most in GM4Women2028’s five thematic areas of education, employment, safety, participation, and culture and active lives. 

Attendees can expect a varied programme featuring thought-provoking discussions, practical workshops, creative performances, networking opportunities, and presentations exploring the latest findings from GM4Women2028 campaigns and initiatives. There will be breakout sessions targeting key problems affecting women and girls, including honour-based abuse, political leadership and public life, and leading healthier lives through better-designed facilities and services. 

Helen Pankhurst CBE, Convenor of GM4Women2028 (pictured below) who is carrying on the legacy of her great grandmother Emmeline and grandmother Sylvia Pankhurst, said: "Dialogue, Deeds & Determination is about people turning dialogue into deeds. We make real headway when communities listen, learn from one another and commit to practical change. As we enter our final years, these in-person events are critical in understanding strides forward, recognising where challenges remain and deciding next steps towards an equitable Greater Manchester." 

Other guests attending on the day will be Kate Green, Deputy Mayor for Greater Manchester, Councillor Faisal Rana, Mayor of Rochdale, and Councillor Iram Faisal, Mayoress of Rochdale, alongside local councillors, political leaders, community representatives and equality advocates from across the city region. 

The charity is also delighted to welcome Hannah Spencer MP, Green Party MP for Gorton & Denton, who will deliver the event’s closing speech, reflecting on the day’s discussions and the actions needed to keep the momentum going. 

Dialogue, Deeds & Determination is being made possible thanks to the support of organisations dedicated to improving gender equality, including venue partner Rochdale Library and a number of regional sponsors whose backing ensures the event remains accessible to all. 

Businesses from Rochdale and other Greater Manchester boroughs are offered a range of sponsorship packages to demonstrate their allegiance to the cause while enabling the charity to deliver one of its flagship annual events. Organisations interested in sponsorship are encouraged to contact info@gm4women2028.org. 

The event is free to attend with optional donations. Registration is required and early booking is recommended as places are capped. 

Event details 

Event: Dialogue, Deeds & Determination 

Date: Saturday 4th July 2026 

Venue: Rochdale Library 

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/gm4women2028-dialogue-deeds-determination-2026-tickets-1788636864009 

Visit www.gm4women2028.org for further information about GM4Women2028 and visit: www.gm4women2028.org/rochdale-dialogue-event for event details.