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“Through learning from each other, we gain a deeper understanding of the world and appreciate the beauty of our differences. This welcoming spirit is what makes Kuwait such a special place,” said H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Bader Al Mohammed Al Sabah.
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The 35th anniversary of the IWG was a testament to the strength and solidarity of women leaders and members who have contributed to the organization’s rich history
The International Women’s Group (IWG) celebrated its 35th anniversary with a spectacular event, uniting members, dignitaries, and leaders to celebrate the organization’s legacy of empowering women and building global connections. The event, held at The Crowne Plaza on May 19, was a great success, showcasing the achievements and contributions of both past and present members.
The evening began with Mrs. Antonia Dimitrova, spouse of the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria and IWG President for 2023-2024, extending a warm welcome to the Honorary President of IWG, H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Bader Muhammad Al-Sabah, along with five former IWG presidents.
As VIPs entered, uplifting music filled the room. The audience greeted the five distinguished IWG presidents with enthusiastic applause as they took the stage, each adorned with a sash symbolizing their leadership and contributions to the organization.
The formal program was hosted by Mrs. Layla Boulos, who introduced the Honorary President H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Al Sabah and the former presidents: Mrs. Jasmin Shuhaibar, Mrs. Rima Khaldi (Palestine), Mrs. Ghada Shawky (Egypt), and Mrs. Antonia Dimitrova.
After the introductions, Mrs. Dimitrova delivered a heartfelt welcome speech, highlighting the significant milestones achieved by the IWG over the past 35 years. She spoke of the organization’s role in uniting women from diverse cultural backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and support.
“We are reminded of the remarkable journey that began three and a half decades ago,” said Mrs. Dimitrova. “In 1989, IWG started as a small group of visionary women, led by the spouse of the then Ambassador of the Netherlands, Mrs. Hanneke Veling, may her soul rest in peace. Those energetic ladies planted the seeds of initiative and laid the foundations of this group, which has overcome the challenges of time and grown stronger with each passing year.”
She extended sincere compliments and blessings to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and congratulated His Highness the Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on assuming his duties at the head of the new government. She wished him success in his mission.
Mrs. Dimitrova emphasized the dedication of IWG members, stating, “IWG owes its remarkable viability and success to you, dear members, to your commitment and dedication. You are the core of IWG, and with your enthusiasm and creativity, our group will continue to pursue its noble objectives of promoting cultural exchange and friendship.”
She also expressed special gratitude to Honorary President H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Bader Al Mohammed Al Sabah for her continuous support. “We are immensely happy that Her Excellency has joined us today for this celebration,” she said.
Furthermore, Mrs. Dimitrova thanked Kuwaiti institutions, civil society organizations, and private entities that support IWG’s initiatives, as well as the diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited to the State of Kuwait for their ongoing cooperation. She also expressed appreciation to the media and press for their support.
In turn, H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Bader Al Mohammed Al Sabah addressed the group, saying: “For many years, Kuwait has welcomed people from all over the world. This diversity enriches our culture and strengthens our nation. The International Women’s Group celebrates this diversity by bringing together women from different backgrounds to share their stories. Through learning from each other, we gain a deeper understanding of the world and appreciate the beauty of our differences.
This welcoming spirit is what makes Kuwait such a special place.”
The celebration continued with a historical video featuring several former presidents representing the Netherlands, Malta, Pakistan, Italy, Palestine, and Egypt. This highlighted the international and interconnected nature of the group by bringing voices from around the world to the event.
To commemorate IWG’s 35th Coral Anniversary, Dr. Shaker Hamza Al Hazeem from KISR delivered an enlightening presentation on Kuwait coral, followed by an award ceremony recognizing his contributions. The audience then enjoyed a special video showcasing a dive conducted by Dive 36 to display the IWG banner underwater.
A commemorative song specially written for IWG’s 35th anniversary was sung by member Mrs. Shireen Hattar, accompanied by musician and composer Mr. Joudat Marrash. The duo’s performance, with lyrics displayed on stage and screen, resonated with the audience, and other musical performances added a lively and festive atmosphere to the evening. Both artists were later honored with special awards for their contributions.
In a special segment, three outstanding IWG members—Mrs. Jasmin Shuhaibar, Mrs. Vera Al Mutawa, and Mrs. Farah Attai—were recognized with special awards for their exceptional dedication and service throughout the years.
Mrs. Dimitrova then took the stage to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the outgoing Vice-Presidents, Mrs. Polina Dalmini and Mrs. Saia Berdibay. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the remaining seven ladies of the Executive Board: Mrs. Veara Al-Mutawa, Mrs. Farah Attai, Mrs. Kamelia Al-Mutawa, Mrs. Aziza Khan, Mrs. Layla Boulos, Mrs. Manar Alamat, and Mrs. Afi Khan, for their unwavering support and tireless dedication.
The evening then proceeded to the announcement of the new IWG board. Mrs. Dimitrova introduced Mrs. Polina Dalmini, spouse of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Eswatini, as the new president, along with three vice presidents: Mrs. Rana Abu Shakra, spouse of the Ambassador of Jordan; Mrs. Laura Duclaud, spouse of the Ambassador of Mexico, and Mrs. Baigalmaa Bayantsagaan, spouse of the Ambassador of Mongolia. Mrs. Dalmini shared her vision for the future of the IWG, promising to build on the strong foundation laid by her predecessors. She also expressed gratitude to the Executive Board and members for their trust and support.
The celebration culminated with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony featuring H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Al Sabah and both the outgoing and incoming boards. The specially designed cake was a highlight, immensely admired by all.
The evening ended on a high note with a special raffle for members. The event concluded with a sumptuous buffet dinner prepared by the chefs of the Crowne Plaza, accompanied by live music, allowing guests to continue celebrating and networking in a festive atmosphere.
The 35th anniversary of the IWG was a testament to the strength and solidarity of women leaders and members who have contributed to the organization’s rich history. It was a night to remember, filled with reflection, recognition, and anticipation for the future, with all attendees wishing for many more years of growth, mutual understanding, and community.
