Needless to say, the last IWAK year, and the end of the previous one, have been a challenge! A social organisation based on organising regular events and activities for our members, we were suddenly forced indoors often with Zoom as our only option… no more regular coffee mornings, parties, museum visits, charity balls, ladies’ nights… IWAK faced losing its identity along with most of the world. We suspended the membership fee for continuing members and worked in line with pandemic restrictions to provide our members with entertainment and social contacts in whatever way was possible.
Aside from the Zoom Coffees, where we were able to meet some lovely new members and tell them all about IWAK, we tried our hand at online dance class, coaching workshops and inspirational talks, as well as the creative and inspiring Zoom Pyjama Kitchen Club, where we even had a guest hotel chef hosting! Outdoor activities such as bike rides and walks around Kraków, outdoor coffees, the popular botanical garden visits and Glam Squad with its slow fashion creativity also operated whenever possible. Towards the end of last IWAK year we managed to host a ladies night, a big newcomers’ lunch and several outings without masks! The new Active IWAK WhatsApp group organised powerwalks and SUPing sessions for the brave!
During a year where IWAK was unable to organise fundraising events (part of our statutory activity), our members got together to support the newly forming Shelter ran by the Women’s Rights Centre for women (and children) escaping various forms of abuse, by donating an incredible range of high quality goods. Carloads of donations went to this worthy initiative, and the Shelter has been opening its doors to those in need since June! IWAK was also able to donate a symbolic amount of money left over from previous charity fundraising events.
Please enjoy the photos of what we got up to despite the pandemic madness, while not losing our good cheer (most of the time!).
Anna
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