Celebrating unity: IWG farewell event 2025 honors sisterhood with a ‘Golden Africa Theme’

The International Women’s Group (IWG) brought its 2024–2025 season to a memorable close with the IWG Farewell Event 2025, a heartfelt and vibrant celebration held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Under the powerful theme of unity, culture, and sisterhood, the event paid special tribute to the African continent while also honoring a year of shared accomplishments and unforgettable friendships.

With the rich rhythms and sounds of Africa playing, guests were welcomed into a ballroom beautifully adorned with iconic scenes of the African continent, immediately immersing them in an atmosphere of wonder, celebration, and connection.

The day began with an inspiring welcome speech by Mme Polina Dlamini, 2024–2025 IWG President and spouse of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Eswatini. In her passionate address, she took the audience on a stirring journey across Africa’s 54 diverse nations, calling it “the cradle of humankind, the mother continent, a land of promise and power.”

With captivating clarity, she described Africa’s five regions and their unique cultures — from the Arab-influenced North to the richly traditional South — emphasizing the continent’s essential place in the global community. “Africa is not just a land of history — it is a land of potential,” she declared.

Immediately following the African welcome, Mme Polina invited IWG Honorary President Sheikha Hanouf Al-Bader Al-Sabah to the stage for a heartfelt surprise tribute. The audience applauded Sheikha Hanouf’s steadfast support and contributions to IWG’s mission, marking a moment of sincere admiration.

Africa then came to life in one of the day’s most powerful segments, as the wives of African Ambassadors proudly took to the stage. One by one, they introduced their respective countries, shared reflections, and danced together to the joyful rhythms of Africa — enveloping the room in unity, pride, and vibrant energy. The collective presentation included: Burkina Faso, Egypt, Eswatini, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tunisia, and Zimbabwe. Each participant wore her national colors, danced with joy, and embodied the cultural richness of her homeland.

Adding an interactive element, the crowd then took part in a lively African-themed quiz, “How Well Do You Know Africa?” The game sparked laughter, friendly competition, and a deepened appreciation for the continent.

The celebration continued with the globally beloved song “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” followed by a sing-along and dancing — blending cultures and voices in joyful harmony.
In a moment of pride and excitement, the IWG Board for 2025–2026 was introduced. The stage erupted in applause as a commemorative photo was taken — capturing the spirit of leadership, legacy, and continuity that defines the IWG.

A surprise tribute video followed, drawing both laughter and a few tears. The compilation celebrated the events, friendships, and efforts that shaped the season, with a special touching highlight honoring Mme Polina Dlamini’s heartfelt presidency.

Mme Polina then returned to the stage for her farewell speech — an emotional and gracious reflection on her time as President. She spoke candidly of her initial nervousness, the lessons she learned, and the profound connections she formed.

“I was never a solo player,” she said. Speaking of the IWG Executive Board, she shared, “I was lifted by my ‘Super 7’ — Farah, Vera, Afi, Aziza, Layla, Kamelia, and Manar — and my ‘Fantastic 4’ — Baigal, Rana, Laura, and Sheikha Hanouf. Together, we created something meaningful, something magical.”

She extended thanks to everyone who contributed behind the scenes — from the hardworking Crowne Plaza team and embassy staff to family members, drivers, photographers, and supporters. Welcoming the new leadership, she added, “You are inheriting something beautiful. I know you will lead with integrity, energy, and love.”

The celebration continued with an exciting raffle draw, featuring generous prizes donated by participating countries. Cheers and laughter echoed through the hall as winners were announced.

In a final and deeply personal moment, Mme Polina took the stage once more. As the powerful song “Tigi” by Sands played, she offered a heartfelt presentation — a symbolic and emotional farewell to her IWG sisters, embodying the joy, unity, and unforgettable spirit of the year.
The afternoon concluded with a delicious African-inspired buffet lunch, where guests mingled, shared stories, and savored traditional flavors — a final nod to the continent and a fitting close to a remarkable season.

The IWG Farewell Event 2025 was not just the end of a season — it was the celebration of a journey, a commemoration of cultural pride, and a powerful reminder of the beauty found in unity.