Dear WBFN Members,
Warm greetings from the Presidents. To those who have recently relocated, we extend a special welcome. Moving to a new country brings both challenges and rich opportunities for growth, new cultures to explore, communities to join, and skills to learn as a family. We look forward to meeting you at one of our gatherings this year and supporting you as you settle in and thrive.
Thank you for your thoughtful responses to our survey conducted in the last quarter of FY25. Your feedback directly informs a new three-year strategy that addresses the priorities you highlighted. This year, we will focus on expanding opportunities for members in Country Offices to connect, both with WBFN and with one another across our global community. We encourage you to attend any events or virtual sessions organized by WBFN in your regions that are of interest to you and, where possible, to volunteer to make them a success.
Volunteering remains at the heart of WBFN. Our programs and events are powered by members who generously contribute their time to welcome newcomers, whether they have just relocated or have recently joined the World Bank Group (WBG). Volunteering is an excellent way to meet peers on similar journeys, share experiences, learn from one another, and build lasting connections. If you are navigating a new location, please reach out to your local connectors in the Country Offices to learn about available resources, exchange experiences, and access support that can ease the transition. If you are already settled, consider becoming that welcoming presence for others, your guidance can make a meaningful difference for new WBG families.
You also told us that visibility is a priority. In response, we are enhancing our website to make it more intuitive, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. With support from our WBG partners, our communications team is working to ensure you can find what you need quickly and understand who we are from the moment you join the community.
As we implement this strategy, we welcome your continued feedback on how we can better meet your needs. Please write to us at familynetwork@worldbank.org.
In this month’s article, we’re shining a light on colleagues who’ve embraced learning—whether by mastering a new skill or returning to school. Their stories reflect resilience, curiosity, and commitment to personal growth. For many, especially those who’ve paused promising careers to support a spouse’s professional journey, these experiences may serve as a powerful reminder: professional development doesn’t have to stop—it can evolve. By investing in new skills and education, these individuals are redefining what it means to grow, adapt, and thrive in changing circumstances.
Looking ahead, please expect expanded outreach and tailored engagement opportunities for Country Offices, and consider volunteering, your participation is vital to our shared success and collective learning.
With appreciation and warm regards,
Joel and Milka
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