In August, fifteen years ago my husband, Nadir, myself and our twins arrived in Budapest from the Congo. Looking back today makes me realize we have seen so many changes in this city we now call our home.

As a newcomer, the IWCA welcomed me and this is where I met some amazing women who till today are my best friends. After having my third child, I got more involved with the club.

My first position on the board was ‘Hospitality’ chair. I really enjoyed this position as it gave me an opportunity to give back to the club what I had once received. I was able to help newcomers and take them on some fun trips around Hungary.

By then the War in former Yugoslavia had become worse and the refugees were increasing in numbers. As founders of the Charity Action team (CAT, as most of you know it) Rose Swinburn and I worked with the Red Cross to help these refugees. We then went on to work with Family Centres and Orphanages. It gives me such joy to see The Charity Action Team having blossomed to what it is today under the leadership of many dedicated women.

Under the Chairwomanship of Agnes Neider I was able to serve the club as First Vice chair. Together we were able to organize some of the most memorable meetings. Aysenur Birch, the previous Chairwoman, and I go back since then as she was our very capable treasurer.

Being a full time mom took a lot of my time and I spent ten years running the British school PTA. Then three years ago I was asked to chair the Ball committee and have been able to organize some of the most successful events in the history of the Club. With my twins now off to Universities in Canada and the USA, I feel I am once again ready to serve the IWCA. I truly believe we can make a difference.

So with your support I look forward to us moving together from strength to strength …… .

August 2006

You can contact Tasleem by sending an e-mail to: tashu@lalji.hu

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Tasleem Lalji