By: Melanie Cahani
TWIG member
9 June 2011- More than 40 women from across the globe gathered at the Rogner Hotel last week to celebrate another successful year of charity work and friendship building through TWIG Albania.
The Tirana Women’s International Group is an independent, non-profit organisation which promotes friendship and support among women of all nationalities, living in Albania.
Board member Madlyn Paresi says one of the group’s aims is to help expatriate women and their families settle into Albanian life by introducing them to the life and culture of this country.
“Our members come from countries as far away as Australia, Israel, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and USA to mention a few – we also welcome our Albanian members.
“Our end of year celebration lets these members and their partners come together to have fun and enjoy each other’s company while sharing our Albanian experiences”, said Madlyn.
Charity work and giving back to the community also plays a strong role in the group’s agenda with significant donations made this year to four local charities who work with the disabled, the elderly, and at risk women and children.
Among the recipients at the end of year party were Bethany House, the Sue Ryder Foundation Albania, the Jonathan Centre, Tirana and Partnere de Femijet.
The group raises money through membership fees, special occasion event fundraising and the annual Christmas Bazaar. Members work tirelessly throughout the year designing and creating a range of Christmas craft products through weekly craft groups. The goods are later sold at the Christmas Bazaar with all proceeds going to charity.
Board member, Ruth Covington says TWIG members are kept busy throughout the year with regular day trips, coffee mornings, ladies nights, cooking classes and monthly meetings which often feature special guests.
“The group recently did a great day trip to Berat where our members were treated to a guided tour of historical sites and the museum as well as a traditional Albanian lunch followed by wine tasting at a local vineyard.
“By holding these regular activities, we give our members the opportunity to interact with the community in a positive way and make living in Tirana a rewarding and fun experience,” said Ruth.
Tirana Women’s International Group is open to women of all nationalities living in Tirana. The group’s main meeting is held on the first Wednesday of every month at the Rogner Hotel.
The group always breaks for the summer – from June to September, and the first meeting of the New Year will be held on the Wednesday 14 September 2011.
For more information on membership or how you can contribute to the TWIG event calendar, please contact the board at: twigboard@gmail.com
