19 August 2014 – The spotlight on the closeness and connectivity among women around the world shone brightly during the first candle lighting ceremony of the Business and Professional Women (BPW) Wellington hosted by Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez at “Ang Bahay” (Philippine Ambassador’s residence) on July 5.
Nearly 45 women from New Zealand and the Philippines led by BPW NZ Federation President Ms. Vicky Mee, BPW NZ Federation Immediate Past President Ms. Carolyn Savage, BPW NZ Federation 2nd Vice President-Issues and Chair for Legislation and Upper Hutt City Councillor Ms. Hellen Swales, BPW Wellington President Ms. Billie Searle, officers and members of BPW Wellington and Upper Hutt and representatives from other organizations attended the solemn and meaningful candle lighting ceremony which symbolized the continuing glow of unity and solidarity among dedicated women from New Zealand, the Philippines and over 98 countries. Each candle representing the International bonds of BPW organizations across six continents, the USA where Dr. Lena Madesin Phillips founded the BPW, countries with at least one Associated Club, individual members and the future were lit and messages from the BPW International and BPW NZ Presidents were read.
Ambassador Benavidez warmly welcomed the BPW officers, representatives and members on this significant occasion which she described as a moving and heartwarming ceremony that captured the strong spirit of togetherness among committed and dedicated women to make a significant difference in people’s lives. “The Philippines joins hands and stands shoulder to shoulder in contributing to making this 21st century the Women’s Century,” she stated.
The BPW Wellington Candle Lighting Ceremony marked another milestone in highlighting the determined purpose, dedicated efforts and dynamic influence of women leading the way and going forward in the local, regional and global arenas collaborating closely with stakeholders in the collective pursuit of peace, progress, equality and empowerment. END