by Kimberly Andersson, AWC Stockholm FAWCO Rep
115 Years of AWC Stockholm, 95 Years of FAWCO, and One Unforgettable Region 2 Weekend
What happens when women from across Region 2 come together in Stockholm to celebrate history, exchange ideas, strengthen friendships and imagine what comes next? Three days of connection, inspiration, and laughter!
Our Region 2 Meeting and Anniversary Celebration brought together members from across the region to celebrate 115 years of the American Women’s Club of Stockholm and 95 years of FAWCO. It was a wonderful opportunity to honor the women who built these communities while looking ahead to the next chapter of our shared story.
We began by stepping back in time, exploring AWC Stockholm’s rich history through photographs, stories and memorabilia. It was a reminder of the friendships, resilience and international spirit that have connected women living abroad for generations.
The program then turned to the present and future of our clubs. During our Local Connections session, members shared what is working in their clubs and communities, the challenges they face and the ideas they are developing. Several attendees later told us this was a highlight of the weekend, a lovely reminder that some of our best inspiration is already happening close to home.
We also explored global perspectives, including State Department Federal Credit Union (SDFCU) and the practical realities of managing finances while living internationally. Conversations about global citizenship, philanthropy and opportunities for collaboration reinforced how much we can accomplish when we learn from one another.
Stockholm itself provided a magnificent backdrop. Our visit to Stadshuset (Stockholm City Hall) connected us with the city's history and civic heritage, including its spectacular Blue Hall and Golden Hall. We also explored how art creates belonging across borders through a session inspired by Nobel Week Lights, celebrating the power of ideas to illuminate our world quite literally!
As evening arrived, we gathered for dinner at the beautiful Swedish Society of Medicine (Läkaresällskapet), where great company was followed by an absolutely off-the-charts music trivia challenge! A little friendly competition, plenty of laughter and some surprisingly impressive musical knowledge made for a memorable evening.
And we weren't quite finished! Sunday brought a cozy brunch, courtesy of Costco, followed by a relaxed tour of Biomedicum. It was the perfect opportunity to wind down, enjoy a few final conversations and end our three days together on a warm and welcoming note.
Of course, the moments between the scheduled sessions were just as meaningful: the spontaneous conversations over coffee, the hugs between old friends, the new introductions and the countless “We should definitely do this together!” moments.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who traveled to Stockholm, shared their expertise and experiences, and helped make this celebration so special. 115 years of AWC Stockholm. 95 years of FAWCO. One region, countless connections, and a future we continue to build together.
Stockholm provided the setting. History provided the perspective. FAWCO and Region 2 provided the magic.
