Who's in Charge

Alejandra Ruiz, President

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Five. This is the number of times that I have relocated “permanently” from abroad to Barcelona during my life. My last arrival was on New Year’s Day 2008, as a Colombian-born full-time mother with a German husband, a US American son, and, by now also, a Spanish daughter. Ever since that day, BWN has turned out to be a blessing in little disguise: I have met people that have similar backgrounds, share common interests, and face the same challenges. I have always had access to somebody who gave me – or who needed from me! - a great tip, a useful phone number, a reliable contact, or just a good time! BWN immediately makes anyone feel at home – whether one plans to stay “permanently” or only for a while, whether one arrives here for the first time … or for the fifth.

Cristina Vallet, First Vice-President

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I was born in Barcelona and lived here until my Senior Year of High School, which I spent in the US. Following my time in the US, I returned to study a Business degree at the American University in Barcelona. Having graduated, I worked in marketing and as a management consultant, and completed a Management Development Program (PDD) at Spain's leading business school, IESE. I met my English husband and moved to London for about six years, returning to Barcelona in 2006. We have two wonderful children who occupy most of my time. I also do some translation work and help with various charities. BWN offers a great opportunity for me to remain in a truly international environment whilst living in my home city, the best of both worlds!

Diana Mahmoud, Second Vice-President

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Professional vagabond. I considered this my new career path after leaving my family, friends, job, and country in 2007. Ever since marrying and following my Egyptian husband across the pond, I have moved to two countries (Germany and Spain) in less than 3 years, with Barcelona being the most recent in May 2009. I loved this city from day one, but have come to enjoy it even more since joining the BWN and meeting all the wonderful women from all over the globe. It's been personally inspiring to meet others who, for one reason or another, gave up established lives, only to reinvent themselves in their new surroundings. Through my association with the group, I've learned not to define myself based on what I've done in the past or where I lived, but who I am today. When I am not tweaking the BWN website, I enjoy writing, traveling, salsa dancing, and walking my high-maintenance cocker spaniel, Charlie, through the streets of this vibrant city.

Peggy Bosch, Treasurer

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Barcelona? A for almejas, b for butifarra, c for chorizo or cava…Then there is the relatively moderate weather. Cultural events abound. What’s not to like? My life was quite pleasant in Barcelona for the first year I was here. I was practically running a Bed & Breakfast, which didn’t leave much downtime. The guests couldn’t stay forever (which is ok) and I needed to put down some roots. Discovering the BWN opened a wonderful dimension of both friends and things to do. Taking advantage of the city’s offerings is much more fun in the company of the women I have met here. It has enriched my life so much. Like so many other expats we came for “six months”, and then it was “ok, we’ll stay for a year”, and then “ok, for two years”. I am an expat, not an emigrant; but now I understand how there is a continuum and the line can blur quickly in this wonderful city.

Susan Rodd, Secretary

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I have lived in Barcelona on and off for 24 years. I became a member of the BWN 8 years ago when we arrived back from Italy. I live in the Maresme and I am married to a great guy who is Spanish, we have two grown up sons, one living in Madrid and the other on his way to Germany. I joined the BWN because in my travels I was very much helped to settle into different countries, thanks to joining International clubs. When we arrived back I thought it would be nice to help newcomers adapt to Barcelona, having been a stranger many times in my life, in a new enviroment.

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	detailed view

Upcoming Events

Fri, 24.02.12 | 21:00h – 23:30

BWN Winter Party

LOCATION

Club Astoria C/París 193-197, 08036 (Near the Metros Diagonal and Provença‎) http://www.clubastoriabcn.com

DESCRIPTION

Get your party dresses on and warm up from the winter cold with drinks and dancing! The 1889 constructed Belle Epoque theatre, turned cabaret, turned 70s iconic cinema, is now the Club Astoria and is ours for this one special night. Think Moulin Rouge meets modern funky…

Please note any Registration and payment after February 21st will imply a higher price: 20€ Member and 30€ as a Non-member.

So, hurry and sign up today!!

•What to expect: Our own Carrie Lewis has offered her jazz band “Carrie Lewis and the Levitators” to sing at the event for us. So plan for a very festive time with the chance to dance. Look out for a separate BON from Carrie regarding the song contest and free massage!

Drinks and a delicious selection of appetizers will be served. There is plenty of comfortable seating.

You are welcome to bring guests!

See the story and photos of the club here: http://diariodesign.com/2011/04/un-cine-reconvertido-en-el-nuevo-mouline-rouge-de-la-mano-de-futur2/
Registration and Payment:

RVSP: We would appreciate it, by Tuesday, February 21st, 2012. Please include the names of your guests and the name of your song request for Carrie’s contest.

COST

Members 15€ Non-members 20€ for registrations up to Tuesday, February 21st

Contact Organizer