Transforming Tomorrow Today: IWF conference in Boston

I was proud to be one of 850 women from 31 countries at the International Women’s Forum annual conference and gala in Boston on October 29 to 31.

I’m active in the Chicago chapter, but this was the first time I’d attended IWF’s biggest annual event. I was impressed by the diversity of the women in attendance – high-level executives and leaders in a variety of fields including business, education, medicine and politics.

The program was also diverse, and highly interesting and educational, with speakers and panels on such subjects as alternative energy, online education and new solutions to world hunger.

In addition to discussions and workshops, we were offered a choice of behind-the-scenes experiences. I chose to visit the Massachusetts State House. Watching government in action, I was reminded of how strongly I identify with my adopted country. I no longer think of myself as an immigrant from Russia, because to me “home” is the place where you’re involved in the community.

After discovering how uplifting and inspiring an IWF conference is, I’m very glad to be serving on the planning committee for next year’s event, which will take place in Chicago. Along with my fellow chapter members, about 150 in all, I take great pride in the organization and look forward to highlighting our city, just as this year’s conference highlighted Boston.

With me in photos: HBS classmate Sushil Tuli and IWF Boston co-chair Priscilla Douglas; IWF president Sein Chew; Iram Shaw; Olga Bessolova from IWF Moscow