Dear Members,
Warm greetings from Washington, DC.
March invites us to celebrate Women’s History Month, a moment to honor the extraordinary contributions women have made across our histories, cultures, and communities. On March 8, colleagues and families across World Bank Group locations will join the world in celebrating International Women’s Day. At WBFN, we’re proud to mark the month by welcoming Dr. Cynthia Austin, a dedicated OB‑GYN, for a special talk on women’s health on March 11. The event will be hosted in Washington, DC and livestreamed for our global community. Wherever you are, we hope you’ll join us.
We’re also excited to introduce Global Connect, our new worldwide newsletter designed to bring voices from every corner of our network to the forefront. It’s a space for members outside HQ to share stories of resilience, community, and everyday life around the world while staying closely connected to the WBG family. Our inaugural issue features Vienna, Austria, home to a vibrant WBFN chapter. We’re eager to glimpse life in Vienna through members’ photos and reflections, and we hope it inspires more chapters to share their own perspectives next.
The Children’s Art Prize, now in its third year, is underway, and we invite you to encourage your children to participate. This year’s theme, “The World of Work,” aligns with the WBG vision to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity on a livable planet, grounded in sustainability, jobs, and climate-resilient development. In Lusaka, Zambia, children recently gathered at the WBG office to create art together, an inspiring model of creativity and connection. If your chapter hosts a similar event, please tell us about it and share photos so we can showcase your efforts.
These initiatives highlight what makes our global community unique. WBFN thrives because of your energy, ideas, and willingness to show up for one another. Thank you for your support and dedication.
How you can take part this month:
- Attend Dr. Cynthia Austin’s women’s health talk on March 11 (in person in DC or online).
- Read and share the first issue of Global Connect and consider submitting a story from your chapter.
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Invite your children to enter the Children’s Art Prize under the theme “The World of Work,” and tell us about any local art gatherings.
With appreciation,
Joel and Milka