The International Women's Club in Montenegro has been bringing together women from different countries and cultures for years, creating a space for friendship, exchange of experiences and joint action. The club has become recognizable for its contribution to society, especially for the humanitarian actions and cultural events it organizes.
Why is the club important?
- connects women of different nationalities and professions;
- contributes to the local community through humanitarian projects;
- promotes cultural diversity and mutual understanding.
Organized activities
Over the past years, the club has organized numerous events: cultural evenings, educational workshops, gatherings and, of course, the traditional Diplomatic Bazaar - the event for which the club is most recognized.
Donations and support
Thanks to the joint work and generosity of the members, significant funds and donations were collected and directed towards schools, hospitals, social institutions and individuals who needed help the most.
Plans for 2026
In the year ahead, the International Women's Club of Montenegro will expand its activities and launch projects dedicated to women and cybersecurity, as well as one of the most significant projects in partnership with UNICEF: "Joining Forces for a Better Tomorrow" - a project intended for babies and young children who are at risk of or already have developmental disabilities, with the aim of supporting the realization of their rights.
By the end of 2026, the project will:
• empower and support around 1,000 children and their families in Montenegro to reach their full potential;
• train 60 professionals to provide high-quality early development and support services.
As part of this project, the International Women's Club in Montenegro, together with the Women's Club of the Parliament of Montenegro, will organize a gala event at Villa Gorica in 2026, in order to further draw public attention to the importance of early development and support for the youngest.
The beauty of togetherness
Women come and go – the hardest thing to say goodbye to is when members leave Montenegro, but the feeling of gratitude for the shared moments remains. Of particular value are those who are there constantly, actively participating in social life:
• Jana Cvijic Rodic, PhD in Economics, President of IWCM and Professor in Belgrade. She was a member of international clubs in Austria and Azerbaijan, bringing valuable experience to our work.
• Zorica Mišković Pavićević, the founder of the club in 2009, the biggest supporter and, in one word – the heart of the club. As the general manager of the Big Fashion Center, the place where the Diplomatic Bazaar is held, she is a pillar of continuity and strength:
"What motivates me most is the feeling that we are doing something together that really changes people's lives. As the founder of the International Women's Club, it is wonderful to see different cultures unite around humanity, and as the director of Big Fashion, I am proud that our space is becoming a place of kindness. This energy, solidarity and the results we achieve every year give me the strength to continue."
• Elena Gabriela Sekulovic, responsible for the club's financial operations, an English teacher and a dedicated activist. She is passionate about improving the position of women and children through various support and empowerment projects. She is a promoter of healthy living habits and a balanced lifestyle, and as a devoted mother, she nurtures the values of care, dedication and personal development in her work and everyday life. Always ready to selflessly share her knowledge, she often holds free English lessons for members of the most vulnerable communities.
• Enisa Murseli Gjokaj, a club project coordinator, women's rights activist, and international migration consultant. Her energy and vision connect local and international initiatives.
• Danica Ponomarev Candela, an EU expert, with a wealth of experience gained through diplomatic life. As the wife of an Italian diplomat, she brings with her knowledge of the importance of women's gatherings and friendships abroad.
• Ivana Kovac Beret, a university professor of Spanish and honorary consul of Spain in Montenegro. She lives between Montenegro and the Dominican Republic, connecting cultures and strengthening international ties.
Their dedication and constant presence make the club vibrant, dynamic, and recognizable – a place where the beauty of togetherness is affirmed daily.
Bazaar – the symbol of the club
The Diplomatic Bazaar remains the central event of our club – a place where funds are raised, but also where people gather to donate, have fun and learn something new about the cultures of the world. In the end, everything collected always goes to those who need it most – because solidarity is the foundation of our work. Last year's bazaar in Podgorica was attended by 26 embassies, and according to media reports, tens of thousands of euros were collected – a figure of around €59.000 was mentioned. This year, our goal is to surpass last year's results, both in the number of visitors and in the funds collected. Because our goal is not just numbers, but to help those who really need help. The bazaar is organized with the support of 28 embassies, the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, the Council of Europe Office in Podgorica, the Association of Women Leaders – showing women's solidarity – as well as numerous institutional and media partners. This event brings together cultures from all over the world in one place. The embassies will showcase the authentic products and traditions of their countries, giving visitors the opportunity to experience true cultural diversity while supporting the humanitarian mission.
All proceeds will be donated to humanitarian initiatives, including:
- support for children with developmental disabilities and their families through UNICEF's "United for a Better Tomorrow" program;
- for two elementary schools in Gusinje and Petrovac;
- for the Children's Hospital in Podgorica;
- for the Department of Nephrology of the Croatian Cancer Society, and
- for the animal shelter in Podgorica.
The program will also include cultural performances, children's activities, as well as a charity lottery - making the bazaar an event that combines charity, entertainment, and the beauty of togetherness.
(International Women's Club in Montenegro)
