The International Women’s Group (IWG) celebrated its 35th anniversary with a spectacular event that brought together members, dignitaries, and its leaders in a grand celebration of the organization’s enduring legacy of empowering women and fostering international connections. Held on the evening of May 19, 2024, at The Crowne Plaza, the event was a resounding success, highlighting the achievements and contributions of past and present members.
The evening commenced with Mrs. Antonia Dimitrova, spouse of the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria and IWG President for 2023-2024, warmly welcoming the Honorary President of IWG, H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Badar Al Muhammad Al Sabah, along with five former IWG presidents.
The VIPs entered to the sound of uplifting music. 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 emceed 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.
Following 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 Dimitrova. “In 1989, IWG began as a small group of visionary women, headed 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 Mishal 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, wishing 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 the 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 brings together a richness of cultures that strengthens our nation. The International Women’s Group celebrates this by bringing women together from different backgrounds to share their stories.
By 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 then continued with a historical video featuring several former presidents, representing the Switzerland, Netherlands, Malta, Pakistan, Italy, Palestine and Egypt; past underscoring the international and interconnected nature of the group by bringing voices from around the world to the event.
To mark IWG’s Coral Anniversary of 35 years, Dr. Shaker Hamza Al Hazeem from KISR delivered an enlightening presentation on Kuwait coral, followed by an award ceremony recognizing his contributions. The audience was then treated to a special video showcasing a dive conducted by Dive 36 to display the IWG banner underwater.
A commemorative song especially written for IWG’s 35th anniversary was sung by member Mrs. Shireen Hattar, accompanied by musician and composer, Mr. Joudat Marrash. The duo’s songs, with lyrics displayed on stage and screen, resonated with the audience, and the rest of the 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 her 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 her gratitude to the Executive Board and members for their trust and support.
The celebration culminated with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony featuring Sheikha Hanouf 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.
