The International Women’s Forum of Bologna (IWF) is a non-profit organization founded in October 1998, in Bologna, Italy, for English speaking women of all nationalities. The group serves as a professional, cultural, and social resource where members have an opportunity to exchange experiences, make professional contacts, find support and friendship, and speak English. The diversity of our membership reflects the founding spirit of the IWF with more than 100 members of all ages, backgrounds and professions, originating from more than 20 different countries. Members range from recent arrivals in Bologna to long term residents who value the international community offered by the IWF. The IWF also has numerous Institutional Members, including associations, companies and universities who wish to extend the benefit of IWF membership to the English-speaking women in their organizations.
The IWF hosts general meetings once a month featuring a presentation by an invited speaker. Members also have the opportunity to get together in smaller groups organized around specific interests. These various “interest groups” meet to run, hike, chat over coffee or an aperitivo, discuss books, organize activities for children, and find language exchange partners. Special events include an annual holiday party and a family picnic. Dates and event descriptions may be found on the IWF calendar.
The IWF operates a dynamic website that allows users to easily connect with one another and the association. Members may visit the website to learn about upcoming activities, search the member directory and view photo albums of IWF events. Among the most useful tools is the online Forum and IWF Social Boards, interactive bulletin boards where members can read and post messages on any number of topics ranging from employment opportunities to health care and apartment hunting.
Annual membership in the IWF Bologna runs from 1 July to 30 June. Membership fees are used to support the operation of the association and members to attend IWF-sponsored activities, gain access to the password-protected areas of the online community and participate in interest groups. New visitors are invited as guests to their first general meeting or interest group activity. Information on membership fees and payment options may be found on the IWF website.
Whether you have just landed in Bologna or have called it home for decades, the IWF offers an enriching experience for all members. Download the IWF tri-fold brochure for a friend.
For full access to our site, please login using your unique username and password. If you are not an IWF member, find out how to join us.