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.

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.

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.

Both Western and Indonesian women come to Bali for many reasons. Some come with their husbands 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.

BIWA has a nine member board of directors. Each director is elected annually by the membership and the organization operates according to the guidelines set out in its constitution and by-laws.

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.