THE INITIATIVE to form International Women in Portugal (IWP) was taken in 1991 by a group of ladies who felt that none of the existing clubs met their needs and that an international forum would benefit many women coming to live in Portugal.
Today, the group has approximately 380 members of different nationalities, ages and religions, with very varied interests. The club serves many purposes, the most important being the hub of the organisation of around 40 activities, including language conversation, baby and toddler groups, arts and crafts, Bible discussion, sports activities, cultural tours and many more. The club also holds regular lunches. The IWP serves as a vehicle for socialising with other women, helping create friendships and pursuing special interests. One occasion, where old and new members have a chance to get together and learn about the activities, is at the monthly coffee mornings held every last Thursday of the month at Buchanan’s Restaurant in Cascais.
The car boot sale is another of the larger annual events organised by the IWP. This year, it will take place on May 21 at the car park of St. Julian’s School in Carcavelos and the proceeds will be donated to the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service. This reflects another facet of the IWP as a non-profit making organisation that donates money to a variety of charities every year, such as Aldeia SOS in Cascais that received money to purchase play equipment last year.
The club also publishes a monthly magazine, A Janela, featuring articles from members, interesting places to visit in Portugal, health issues, book reviews, information on activities taking place within the club, among others.
• If you would like to know more about the IWP, visit www.iwponline.org, contact their office (214 683 925), or joint vice president Anne Mette Bang (969 771 673).
