IWAP – Celebrating 30 years of International Friendship

By Kim Strebel (US)

IWAP was founded in 1991 by an energetic and nationally diverse group of 10 women. The founding group was determined to be a resource and support for each other to manage their way through a new country. Throughout the years, many women of diverse backgrounds have been fortunate in the founding group’s vision to establish such a wonderful organization; one that continues today to support the international community of Prague.

Brief History Lesson

In 1991, a group of 10 women from different nationalities, formed the International Women’s Club of Prague. Women, from many different countries, were welcomed to join as the demand for a non-Czech speaking support group was evident. A few firsts from 1991:

• Official start date: 11 January 1991.
• Initial goal of the club was to be open to “active and interested women living in Prague who are willing to contribute their time and effort to the activities of the club”.
• First Meeting was conducted at the Canadian Embassy Residence with 88 ladies attending from 22 countries.
• First Newcomers’ Meeting was held on 16 April 1991 at the Diplomatic Club in Prague 1.

IWCP Committee Meeting March 1991

In 1997, the International Women’s Club of Prague ceased operations due to legal compliance requirements. Determined to meet the legal requirements in the Czech Republic the organization leaders carried to be compliant.

In 1998, the International Women’s Association of Prague (IWAP) was created in compliance with Czech laws. The Association drafted bylaws and operating guidelines for establishment that created the foundation of the wonderful group that exists today.

In 1999, President Václav Havel gave official recognition to IWAP for outstanding efforts of the organization.

The structural aspects of IWAP have evolved through the years from neighborhood coffees to general meetings, participation in the Rotary dragon boat race to the interest groups changing as members arrived and departed Prague. The Bridge has evolved over the years from a typewriter 5 page print format to a monthly magazine then to a quarterly magazine and now to a web based format. What remains consistent through the years, is the desire to meet other women for support, friendship and share in the local culture and life of Prague, while also having opportunities to support local charities.

IWAP Membership Benefits

• Meeting interesting women from many corners of the world.
• Support & friendship.
• Smooth transition into the Prague / Czech Republic environment.
• An opportunity for regular participation in interest groups, social and cultural events.
• A place to go when you want to be amongst friends.
• A way to engage in local community service.

By Lia Cordery

IWAP Vision at the 30th Anniversary

Joining IWAP is about friendship and good company with a healthy dose of support. IWAP encourages meeting new friends and deepening bonds through the general meetings, coffee meet ups, interest groups as well as through sightseeing and cultural events. Today, IWAP has members from over 30 countries.

• General Meetings – while currently held on zoom, meetings will move to in-person as soon as possible.
• Charity / Community Service – a cornerstone activity of the IWAP organization. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local community in Prague and the greater Czech Republic.
• Interest Groups – IWAP offers a broad selection of interest groups. Members who are keen to share their skills or have an interest in trying something new with friends are encouraged to create an interest group.
• Social and Cultural Events – from walking tours, to museums to nights out in the city; you can expect to be out and about as soon as reasonably possible.

The IWAP website is a wonderful resource that outlines all the activities available through the organization. Under the Member section you can find business recommendations from fellow members as well as other resources to stay connected with your fellow IWAP members. Check the website regularly as we continue to celebrate 30 years of International Friendship!

Thank you to all our photographers over the years.