Bringing International Women together since 1961
H.R.H. Princess Lilian, Duchess of
Halland — Patron of IWC Stockholm, 1982–2013
Photo: by Chris Jackson/Getty Images
How It Began
In 1961, Sissi Rasmussen and nine other young wives and mothers who were new to Sweden met through school and social circles and became friends. Sharing the experience and challenges of living abroad, they wanted to learn from one another and, most of all, meet and make friends during the shorter or longer time they lived in Stockholm. This is how the International Women’s Club of Stockholm was born.
The Club grew quickly into a unique international community. Luncheons with prominent speakers and performances, coffee mornings, afternoon teas, and visits to museums, historic places and art exhibitions introduced members to Swedish culture and society — traditions that continue today.
Princess Lilian
During the presidency of Ingegreta Håkansson in 1982, Princess Lilian of Sweden was invited to become Patron of IWC. Her acceptance marked an important chapter in the Club’s history and reflected its growing recognition within Stockholm’s international community.
As Patron, Princess Lilian supported the Club and its initiatives and attended signature occasions and luncheons. Her patronage brought distinction to IWC and remains a memorable part of the Club’s heritage.
Philanthropy
Philanthropy has been an important pillar of IWC since its early years. Today, the Club organizes fundraising events with the support of members, embassies, and Swedish and international companies. Charities are selected by the IWC Executive Board to ensure that contributions make a meaningful difference.
Running the Club
IWC has been run entirely by volunteers since 1961. Today, its 11-member Executive Board is supported by an International Coordinator and a separate Nominating Committee, which helps ensure continuity in the Club’s leadership.
Friendship and Goodwill to All
IWC is a social club with no religious or political affiliations. Over the past 65 years, it has welcomed hundreds of members representing more than 75 nationalities.
Guided by its motto, “Friendship and Goodwill to All,” IWC continues to offer what its founders sought in 1961: a home away from home, where women from different backgrounds can meet, build friendships, discover Sweden and contribute to the wider community.
More than six decades later, that spirit continues: Fun, Friendship, Fundraising.
65 Years of Friendship, Culture and Connection
Meet our members
The International Women’s Club of Stockholm brings together a vibrant community of approximately 300 women representing more than 60 nationalities. It is a unique meeting place where cultures, experiences, and perspectives come together.
Our members come from diverse professional and personal backgrounds, including business, diplomacy, education, science, and the arts. We are also proud to include Swedish women who have returned to Stockholm after living abroad for many years, bringing with them a truly international outlook.
What unites us is a shared curiosity about the world, a passion for cultural exchange, and the friendships that enrich our lives. Meet some of the members whose stories reflect the international character of our Club.
Dajana Jakovina
Member since 2025
Growing up in a culturally homogeneous environment, my world expanded at 16 when I joined an international boarding school. That experience opened my eyes to different ways of living — teaching me not only about the world, but about myself and how my own culture had shaped me. Since then, I have called the United States, Spain, Brazil, and now Sweden home.
Discovering the IWC Stockholm felt serendipitous. What I didn't anticipate was how instantly warm and welcoming it would be — how quickly you feel part of something. The more you engage, the more you receive. Meeting women from all walks of life has been genuinely inspiring, and I look forward to continuing to do so through the rich tapestry of events and activities the club offers.