Liz - joined 03/06
"Having experienced several country moves in the last few years, I was already aware of the advantages of International Women’s groups in helping to establish yourself quickly into the community.
Moving to Sydney with a 17 year old meant school contact would be at a minimum. SWIC therefore became my primary way of meeting other ladies. I can honestly say that from the first contact to this day one year and three months later, it has been the most stress free transition into Australian life. The SWIC ladies have provided me with a wonderful circle of friends, endless amount of activities, and when I eventually move to my next country, lots of happy memories."
Lili - joined 02/06
''When I arrived in Sydney I didn't know anyone, anywhere, and anything about the city. I came from an active life in Los Angeles to a halt in Sydney. The first few months were extremely difficult until I met a wonderful lady at a thanksgiving dinner at the American Club. She introduced me to SWIC and literally my life changed. It was an immediate access to over 200 friends. I went from not having anything to do to not having time to be at home. It has been a great experience. I have found wonderful friends. I have learned new things. Without a doubt it has helped me to fit in, adjust, and cope with a new environment and city. I am very grateful to SWIC."
Jina - joined 11/05
"When I first came to Sydney in 2000 I wanted to learn, as much as possible, everything about living in Sydney. Although I’ve traveled extensively, settling down in a new country has always been quite a challenge; for eg, you have to get used to the new culture, people, food, school system etc. Fortunately I learned quickly that there were women that had gone down this path before and their experiences were going to be very timely and valuable for new-comers like myself. That was why I joined SWIC.
SWIC is a great place to make friends (from all over the world)! I’ve since developed a great and enduring friendship with some of our members. I’m very grateful for their support, advice and encouragement, especially when I first came to Sydney."
Chris - Joined 02/05
"When my husband retired we returned to our home town Sydney after living for 25 years as expatriates in Malaysia, Indonesia and the USA. It proved to be a transition that was made 100% easier by my finding out about SWIC soon after we arrived. I felt welcomed and at ease with women whose attitudes had been shaped by similar experiences, whether expats from other countries, or those like myself, who at first felt like "strangers in their own land". SWIC has been an entry back into Sydney that has provided me with many new friends and also the opportunity to help newcomers settle in quickly and take advantage of all the joys of this wonderful city."