The International Women’s Group (IWG)- Kuwait recently marked the beginning of its 2024/2025 season with a vibrant Hawaiian Day celebration, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The event was filled with colorful costumes, traditional Hawaiian dances, and cultural activities that showcased the spirit of Hawaii while fostering cross-cultural understanding and community among its diverse members.
Executive Board member, Mrs. Aziza Khan, acted as the lively MC of the event welcoming all and introducing the varied program, commencing 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 Haja Ishata Thomas and all other distinguished guests, and members of the press. She emphasized the significance 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 excitement for the upcoming season, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and solidarity between women from different backgrounds. She expressed her gratitude to 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. Dlamini further expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in making the event a success; 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 included a dazzling display of traditional costumes with some participants donning vibrant Hawaiian outfits with floral wreaths on their heads and around their necks. The venue included a Hawaiian-themed village and attendees were encouraged to explore the and take pictures at the various photo stations set up around the venue.
Live music by Kuwaiti guitarist Hassan Joumah and performances of traditional Hawaiian dances, delighted all present.
Short films highlighted the beauty of the natural sites, and magnificent tourist destinations. Mr. AbdulWaahab AlMutawa spoke about different types of water sports, focusing on Hawaii’s magnificent surfboarding locations.
At the elaborate lunch buffet, participants had the opportunity to enjoy a wide array of Hawaiian cuisine, including tropical fruit dishes and refreshing coconut drinks, especially prepared by the chefs of 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 exciting cultural events filled with activities aimed at fostering cultural understanding and exchange are expected.
