Women from Iranian Diaspora in Mijas

by Lene Thygesen
(Mijas, Spain)

Women from across the Iranian diaspora came together in Mijas for a day of dialogue, solidarity, learning and cultural exchange at the conference “Women Solidarity for a Better World,” organized by WISE and Soroptimist International Costa del Sol, in collaboration with the Foreigners Department of Mijas Town Hall.

The conference brought together more than 50 WISE members and around 30 local members of Soroptimist International and representatives of various local women’s organisations, like Sembrando Sonrisas, Costa Women, Plataforma Violencia Cero (Málaga), Programa Ödos (Cordoba), Fundación Idiliq and Mujeres en Igualdad.

The event provided an important opportunity for women from different backgrounds, organizations and communities to meet, exchange ideas and explore ways of working together for a better future. The organizers were pleased to welcome Mario Bravo, Councillor for the Foreigners Department of Mijas
Town Hall, whose presence demonstrated the municipality’s support for the conference and its message of solidarity and cooperation.

Participants gathered in the morning at the Town Hall in La Cala de Mijas and the Culture House, where they took part in a varied programme of talks and presentations. The speakers addressed a range of important issues concerning women, society, human rights, solidarity, and the role of working women in society.

Attention was given to the Woman, Life, Freedom movement and the killing of Mahsa Amini 4 years ago, which had a significant impact in Iran, across the region, and on the global stage. The event concluded by giving a voice to the next generation, who were invited to take the stage and share their
perspectives on the world.

Following the morning program, participants shared an Iranian home-cooked lunch, providing a warm and informal moment for conversation and cultural exchange. The afternoon continued with a series of interactive workshops, allowing participants to move from discussion to active exchange of ideas. The workshops created space for deeper conversations, collaboration and the development of new perspectives and possible future initiatives.

The conference concluded with a vibrant musical celebration featuring a mix of Spanish, English and Iranian music. Local singer Mami Curl, as always, got everybody dancing. The atmosphere was filled with music, dancing and emotion. The situation in Iran remains deeply distressing for many members of the diaspora, and many shared heartbreaking stories. Some songs honoured women who have been killed by the regime, while others, such as the iconic Bella Ciao, expressed a shared hope for a better world.

The final moments of the day reflected the spirit of the entire conference: women from different backgrounds coming together, not only to discuss the challenges facing our world, but also to celebrate the strength that comes from solidarity, cooperation and mutual understanding. “Women Solidarity for a
Better World” demonstrated the importance of creating spaces where women can meet, share their voices and build bridges across cultures and organizations. The organizers hope that the relationships and ideas generated during this event will lead to continued cooperation and meaningful initiatives in the future.

For more information about Soroptimist International Costa del Sol: https://costadelsol.soroptimist.es/