Our Misssion

Bali International Women’s Association (BIWA) is a women’s organization whose goal is to foster friendship and engagement between women of different nationalities while contributing to the social welfare, education, and improvement of the lives of underprivileged people living in Bali.

Established in 1974 by seven resourceful women from various cultures and nationalities, BIWA was originally formed as a response to a natural disaster in the northern part of Bali. Since then, the organization has grown and its members, all women, come from all over the world, including Indonesia. As volunteers, members pool their resources and give their time, money and expertise to help achieve the objectives of the organization.

Though Bali is not considered to be a poor part of Indonesia, there are still people and groups that are vulnerable to poverty. BIWA contributes time and raises money to assist women and children of Bali. Our activities range from hands on assistance to fund raising events that support our projects as well as those of other local charitable organizations.

Social Welfare Support

Working for Children

Our outreach programs in education and health for children help disadvantaged families to access resources they need. BIWA works with various schools and organisations to deliver these vital programs. 

Emergency Support

BIWA responds with community support in times of disaster. We are proud to be among the first to act, delivering food, water, clothing and supplies to those in desperate circumstances.

Healthcare Outreach

We partner with some of Bali’s premier healthcare institutions to offer support to those who may find access difficult or unaffordable. Critical health checks are among many of the services we offer during Healthy Day visits to remote communities.

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More about BIWA

BIWA was established in 1974 by what is known as the Seven Fearless Sisters, an eclectic mix of Indonesian and foreign women who came together regularly to support each other as they faced the challenges of a developing society. Over the years the organization grew as its support network resonated with more women. The members did activities together and sought simple solutions to problems they shared. To raise funds they would sell the goods they made from their activities. Logically, they focused their charitable efforts on women who lacked the same access to society as men.

The concept of a money society came to Bali quite late. For years the Balinese conducted commerce through a barter system, which meant most jobs were related to the daily needs of life. There was less debt, more food and very little stress. The transition to a money culture has been difficult for an agrarian based society like Bali where the Subak system is the security of the banjar; a clear priority to please the Gods, the ancestors and the harmony of life.

Continuing these traditions in a modern capitalist economy has many challenges. BIWA has developed into a resource for women in Bali who have been left indigent as the result of the rapid changes of a modern society. BIWA helps women access what they need. Its social welfare efforts encompass health and education for women and children, assistance for HIV/AIDS prevention and rehabilitation programs as well as environmental projects and education.

BIWA is a secular, non-profit and non-political charity association for women from different nations and cultures residing in Bali. Its record of social welfare assistance is impressive, spanning more than four decades.

From Social Welfare to Social Events

In addition to the many social welfare projects BIWA undertakes, we also host luncheons, outings and tours to help us connect with the Balinese culture. We also host social events because sometimes we just want to have some fun.

Here's where YOU fit in

Both Western and Indonesian women come to Bali for many reasons. Some come with their families for work. Others are here to find new experiences. Regardless of the reason, BIWA provides a friendship network for women of all nationalities to get together, build relationships and work toward improving the lives of people less fortunate than themselves.

Board and Constitution

BIWA is a registered, Not-For-Profit organisation that is guided by a Board of Directors who serve a 5-year term. The Committee, which works under the Board’s guidance, is chosen from our Membership on an annual basis. If you would like to offer your services to the Board (Indonesian citizens only) or to the Committee (all members welcome to apply), please contact us to register your interest.

Membership - Eligibility and Joining

Membership is open to women from across the world and is not exclusive to nationality or religion. If you are over 17 you are welcome. To become a member of BIWA, please visit our membership page or come to our next meeting. You will be asked to fill out the membership form and pay membership fees.