Fiesta Mexicana: A Night of Culture and Celebration

The Inner Wheel Circle Singapore Central (IWCSC) hosted a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture, marking the installation of its new board with the esteemed presence of the Mexican Ambassador, His Excellency, E. Agustin García-Lopez Loaeza, Ambassador of Mexico to Singapore and his wife, Mrs. Katya Anaya de García Lopez, as the Guests of Honour. 

The event, a fiesta, showcased traditional Mexican decor with the theme dedicated to Frida Kahlo, one of Mexico’s icon.  Attendees were treated to a lively dance that captured the energetic heritage of Mexico. The Ambassador's address highlighted the spirit of community and service that the Inner Wheel Circle embodies.  He stressed upon Kahlo's indomitable inner strength and passion for life which shone through her art, making her an enduring symbol of perseverance and self-expression.  

With the Ambassador of Venezuela, Jessica Maria Lopez Pina, in attendance, the evening was a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the importance of international camaraderie.  The District Chairman, Maria Hassanbhai and Lorraine Lim, Deputy CEO, Singapore Council of Women's Organisations (SCWO) were among other dignitaries, who attended the event.

Amidst the flurry of fun, a momentous ceremony, marked by dignity and respect, was when IWCSC’s new president was sworn in, receiving the mantle of responsibility and the club's short, albeit impactful legacy from its outgoing president, Neeta Kapoor.

Lipika Bhattacharya, President IWCSC, 2024-25, dedicated her tenure to continued stability, deepening ties with CPAS and NParks, as she earmarked projects for the same associations as last year.

In the happy din of laughter, chatter and raffle wins, the unspoken commitment of another year of service, fellowship, and making a difference was the sublime message that transpired among the members of the IWCSC, both old and new. 

Pic 1 Caption:  Celebrating the colours, cultures, and connections that bring us together! Seated are the Mexican Ambassador to Singapore, His Excellency, E. Agustin García-Lopez Loaeza, and his wife, Mrs. Katya Anaya de Garia Lopez, as the Guests of Honour with (standing L-R) IPP Neeta Kapoor, Dr. Lipika Bhattacharya, President, IWCSC 2024-25; Dr. Lucy Ooi, IWCSC Club Advisor and Rati Asrani, Charter President

Pic 2 Caption: With heartfelt gratitude, we embrace new beginnings and the promise of continued service and unity, Immediate Past President Neeta Kapoor (left) honouring Incoming President, Dr. Lipika Bhattacharya (right)

Pic 3 Caption: Together, we are the heartbeat of humanity…Standing (L-R) Bharti Surtani, Member IWCSC; Dr. Lipika Bhattacharya, President IWCSC, 2024-25; Janet Lim, District Treasurer with guests and Maria Hassanbhai, District Chairman; and Neeta Kapoor, IPP (seated, extreme right)

Pic 4 Caption: Standing tall are the Executive Committee Members IWCSC 2024-25, hailing their new term and their pledge to service

Pic 5 Caption: Contributing to our shared mission of service and community, welcome, new members of the IWCSC! 

Pic 6 Caption: An iconic artist who transformed personal pain into vibrant and enduring works of art, the 2024-25 IWCSC installation was themed on Frida Kahlo, whose commitment to social justice form the seeds of activism for the IWC.