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9:30–10:15 am

Views in the News

Start your morning with a lively, thought-provoking conversation about today’s biggest headlines and the stories shaping our world. This panel unpacks the narratives that impact women’s lives—what’s making waves, what’s being overlooked, and how media shapes the way we see ourselves and our futures. Join leading voices for a dynamic discussion that will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and ready to dive deeper into the day.

Main Stage

10:30–11:30 AM

Men’s Role in Society

Raising Boys, Leading Change:

What does it take to raise a generation of boys who challenge outdated norms and become true partners in progress? This conversation explores how fathers, mentors, and male leaders can reshape ideas about strength, leadership, and responsibility. From tackling online misogyny to fostering respect in relationships, this panel offers powerful insights into building a world where all genders thrive together.

Main Stage

12:00–1:00 PM

Views in the News

9:30–10:15 am

Beyond Boundaries:

Honoring Excellence & Resilience

An afternoon of inspiration and celebration. Join us as we honor Olympian and trailblazer Dominique Dawes, a champion whose impact transcends sports. As a gymnast, she broke barriers and redefined excellence, and today, she continues to uplift others through her advocacy and leadership. This special moment recognizes her perseverance, passion, and commitment to creating opportunities for future generations. In an intimate conversation following the award, Dawes will share insights on resilience, overcoming challenges, and pushing beyond boundaries in every aspect of life.

Main Stage

3:00–4:00 PM

WOW Sounds

A soul-stirring fusion of poetry, rhythm, and movement, WOW Sounds is an electrifying tribute to the power of creative expression. Experience an unforgettable performance that honors the voices, beats, and stories that define our culture.

Main Stage

2025 schedule

9:30–10:15 am

Views in the News

Main Stage

10:30–11:30 am

Raising Boys, Leading Change: Men’s Role in Society

Main Stage

10:30–11:30 am

Baltimore’s City Makers: Leading the Build Toward Equity

Atrium one

10:30–11:30 am

WOW Bites

Atrium two

11:30 AM–12:00 PM

NDMU Student Group

Movement Stage

12:00–1:00 pm

Go Beyond: Honoring Excellence and Resilience with Dominique Dawes

Main Stage

12:00–1:00 pm

Rooted and Rising: Women Reimagining Land, Care, & Community

Atrium one

1:30–2:30 pm

Evolution of Women in the Arts

MULTIPURPOSE

1:30–2:30 pm

Childcare as Critical Infrastructure

Atrium two

1:30–2:30 pm

Breaking Bread: Women Redefining Food and Power

Atrium one

3:00–4:00 pm

WOW Sounds

Main Stage

2025 SChedule

9:30–10:15 am

Views in the News

Main Stage

10:30–11:30 am

Raising Boys, Leading Change: Men’s Role in Society

Main Stage

10:30–11:30 am

Building Baltimore Better

Atrium One

10:30–11:30 am

WOW Bites

Atrium Two

12:00–1:00 pm

Beyond Boundaries: Honoring Excellence and Resilience

Main Stage

12:00–1:00 pm

Rooted and Rising: Women Reimagining Land, Care, & Community

ATrium One

1:30–2:30 pm

Evolution of Women in the Arts

MULTIPURPOSE

1:30–2:30 pm

Childcare as Critical Infrastructure

Atrium TWo

1:30–2:30 pm

Breaking Bread: Women Redefining Food and Power

Atrium one

3:00–4:00 pm

WOW Sounds

Main Stage
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9:30–10:15 am

Views in the News

Main Stage

Start your morning with a cup of coffee and an engaging conversation with panelists as they dive into today's most topical news. This panel examines how current events impact women and girls, setting the stage for deeper discussions throughout the festival. From culture to everyday life, explore how media narratives shape our understanding of gender and the opportunities for creating a more inclusive future.

10:30–11:30 am

Raising Boys, Leading Change: Men's Role in Equity

Main Stage

The role of men in shaping a more inclusive society is more important than ever. This conversation explores how fathers, mentors, and male leaders can challenge outdated gender norms, counteract the rise of online misogyny, and foster healthier relationships within families and communities. From raising boys with a strong sense of respect and responsibility to standing up as allies in workplaces and social spaces, this discussion will examine the tangible ways men can take action. Panelists will explore the pressures and expectations placed on men and boys, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how shifting long-standing narratives can create stronger, more connected communities.

12:00–1:00 pm

Dominique Dawes and Denise Koch

Main Stage

"Join us for an inspiring celebration as Notre Dame of Maryland University President Marylou Yam presents the Go Beyond (Go Be) Award to Dominique Dawes, Olympian, trailblazer, and advocate for perseverance and excellence. This prestigious award honors individuals who embody the spirit of pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and uplifting others through their work and leadership.

 

Following the award presentation, veteran journalist Denise Koch will sit down with Dominique Dawes for an intimate conversation on resilience”what it takes to navigate challenges, redefine success, and create lasting impact. From her historic journey as an elite gymnast to her advocacy for mental and physical well-being in sports, Dawes will share powerful insights on perseverance, self-belief, and inspiring the next generation to go beyond expectations.

 

This is a must-attend session for anyone seeking motivation, wisdom, and a reminder that true strength comes not just from achievement, but from the ability to rise, rebuild, and lead."

3:00–4:00 pm

WOW Sounds

Main Stage

Immerse yourself in a celebration of poetry, movement, and sound that honors the power of storytelling and creative expression. WOW Sounds Baltimore brings together artists who use words, rhythm, and movement to inspire, connect, and reflect the spirit of the city.

10:30–11:30 am

Building Baltimore Better

AUDITORIUM

Baltimore's future depends on who shapes it. This panel explores what our city could look like if women held greater influence in fields often dominated by men: architecture, construction, and community infrastructure. Our panelists will share their journeys, highlight the challenges they've faced, and discuss the power of bringing more women's voices to the table. From design to development, we'll dive into how these leaders are building not just structures but a more equitable and inclusive Baltimore.

12:00–1:00 pm

Rooted and Rising: Women Reimagining Land, Care, & Community

AUDITORIUM

This panel brings together leaders and visionaries to explore the intersections of Afrofuturism, sustainability, and community care. We'll dive into themes of food sovereignty, environmental justice, and how bold imagination and action can create a more equitable future. 

2:00–3:00 pm

Evolution of Women in the Arts

MULTIPURPOSE

Baltimore is a city shaped by its artists and visionaries who use their creativity to define its identity, challenge norms, and build inclusive cultural spaces. This panel explores the evolution of women in the arts and their role in creating a more dynamic, equitable Baltimore. From public murals to design, storytelling, and artistic advocacy, these creatives share their journeys, challenges, and successes in carving out spaces where art meets activism and community building. Join us for a discussion on how the arts continue to shape the city's future and how women are leading this cultural transformation.

9:30–10:00 am

WOW Bites

WORKSHOP ROOM

Start your morning with a cup of coffee and an engaging conversation with panelists as they dive into today's most topical news. This panel examines how current events impact women and girls, setting the stage for deeper discussions throughout the festival. From culture to everyday life, explore how media narratives shape our understanding of gender and the opportunities for creating a more inclusive future.

2:00–3:00 pm

Childcare as Critical Infrastructure

WORKSHOP ROOM

Childcare is a critical yet often overlooked foundation for thriving families and communities. This panel explores the challenges of parenting stress, inadequate childcare, and their impact on youth outcomes like development and education. Join experts as they discuss systemic barriers, innovative solutions, and the economic and emotional importance of accessible, equitable childcare. Discover how prioritizing childcare as essential infrastructure can strengthen communities and create better futures for all.

1:30–2:00 pm

Breaking Bread: Women Redefining Food and Power

AUDITORIUM

Food has always been a source of connection, culture, and creativity. But it is also deeply intertwined with systems of domesticity, gender equity, and liberation. This panel brings together culinary artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators to explore how women are reclaiming food as a space for empowerment, representation, and change. From the lack of women in high-level food careers to the challenges of entrepreneurship, we'll discuss the paths these remarkable leaders are forging in an industry that still has far to go in achieving true gender equity.

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