Members came together in September to raise a glass to 35 years of International Women in Portugal, celebrating the friendships, shared experiences and community that make IWP special.

Beautiful weather set the scene for our first anniversary gathering. Louise Strasenburgh reflected on the importance of our members and the friendships formed through IWP as we toasted the past 35 years and looked ahead to many more.

The anniversary also gave us a chance to revisit our history through two photo albums filled with members’ memories, articles from early Janela newsletters, and photographs of events and activities over the years. Together, they celebrate the many women whose time, talents and enthusiasm have helped shape IWP into the community it is today.

And a little perspective from those early days: IWP ended its first year with 85 members, each paying 4,000 escudos, approximately €20. Today, we have around 950 members, with annual membership still just €25. A much bigger community, with the same spirit of friendship at its heart.

Thank you to everyone who joined the celebration, and to all the members, past and present, who have been part of our story.

IWP members stepped into centuries of Portuguese history on a guided tour of Mafra National Palace, exploring its grand rooms, remarkable library and hidden corners.

Organized by our wonderful Martina, the visit took the group through the palace’s vast halls, royal reception rooms, historic infirmary and billiard room before reaching its magnificent library.

It was another memorable opportunity to discover Portugal’s history together, enjoy good company and experience one of the country’s most extraordinary landmarks up close.