International Women’s Group brings Hawaiian vibes to Kuwait

• Hawaiian Day featured dazzling traditional costumes, vibrant outfits, floral wreaths, and a themed village with photo stations for attendees to explore.

The International Women’s Group (IWG) Kuwait recently kicked off its 2024/2025 season with a lively Hawaiian Day celebration at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

The event featured vibrant costumes, traditional Hawaiian dances, and cultural activities, celebrating Hawaiian culture and promoting cross-cultural understanding among its diverse members.

The Executive Board member, Mrs. Aziza Khan, served as the lively MC of the event, welcoming everyone and introducing the diverse program, starting with the new IWG President.

In her opening speech, Mrs. Polina Dlamini, IWG President and wife of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Eswatini, warmly greeted the attendees, including the ambassadors of Kenya, H.E. Halima Mohamud; Turkey, H.E. Tuba Nur Sonmez; and Sierra Leone, H.E. HajaIshata Thomas, as well as other distinguished guests and members of the press. She emphasized the importance of embracing Hawaiian culture, stating, “Today is a day for us to embrace the spirit of Aloha, which embodies love, peace, hope, and compassion amongst us.”

Mrs. Dlamini expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming season, highlighting the significance of cultural exchange and solidarity among women from different backgrounds.

She also thanked the IWG Executive Board and her three vice presidents—Mrs. Baigal Bayantsagaan, wife of the ambassador of Mongolia; Mrs. Laura Duclaud Vilares, wife of the ambassador of Mexico; and Mrs. Rana Abu Shakra, wife of the ambassador of Jordan.

Additionally, she expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event’s success, including the Crowne Plaza Hotel for its continued support and key contributors such as Lulu Hypermarket, Suma, Lama Company, Al Refai, and BSK.

The Hawaiian Day festivities featured a dazzling display of traditional costumes, with some participants donning vibrant Hawaiian outfits and floral wreaths. The venue included a Hawaiian-themed village, and attendees were encouraged to explore and take pictures at various photo stations set up around the area.

Live music by Kuwaiti guitarist Hassan Joumah and performances of traditional Hawaiian dances delighted all present.

Short films showcased the beauty of natural sites and magnificent tourist destinations. Mr. Abdulwahab Al-Mutawa spoke about various water sports, focusing on Hawaii’s renowned surfing locations.

At the elaborate lunch buffet, participants enjoyed a wide array of Hawaiian cuisine, including tropical fruit dishes and refreshing coconut drinks, specially prepared by the chefs at the Crowne Plaza.

To the delight of members and guests, the Hawaiian Day celebration successfully brought together women from across Kuwait, setting the tone for an exciting season ahead. As the season progresses, more cultural events filled with activities aimed at fostering understanding and exchange are anticipated.