September, like January, is a month of new beginnings, but why? Is it because children start a new year at school and we feel like we want a new start too? Is it because we’ve had the opportunity to spend time away from work, away from the usual routine, and end up reflecting on ourselves, our life and work? Whatever the driver, I’d like to reflect on the first nine months of 2008 and then share future plans.First, I have to say congratulations! Over the past nine months we’ve achieved some great things, including:

• Being cited on Il Mondo as one of the leading women’s networks in Italy
• The phenomenally successful coaching series – over 60 women have actively participated and all sessions have sold out quickly;
• The “Women on Boards – Moving Mountains” event brought more than 170 people together to learn what’s happening across Europe and identify ways we can improve the horrible Italian situation;
• Hosting the WIN Mobilizing Women Tour where we heard inspiring women share their stories and got to know new people better.

And what’s more, all of these are on top of our regular activities: networking aperitivi, speaker meetings and our monthly newsletter. Thank you, PWA members, for your active contribution to these achievements.

So what does the rest of the year have in store and what are we planning?

• In October we’ll have another special event with a top class panel of speakers. All I can say now is that it will be open to men and I promise you’ll get all the information very soon
• We are also currently developing a unique and breakthrough project around Women on Boards in partnership with Rosanna D’Antona and Laboratorio Armonia. If you want to take part or contribute, either talk to one of the board or contact me directly at president@pwa-milan.org
• Members only: please reserve 29 October in your agendas for the PWA General Assembly. The assembly is where we will discuss what we’ve achieved in 2007/08, review our financial situation and give 2009 board candidates the opportunity to present themselves.

That last sentence may have caught you by surprise but we’ll soon be having our annual elections for the 2009 PWA Milan Board. If you are a PWA Milan member, start thinking about whether you’d like to be on the board and keep an eye on the website in the coming weeks to read about the positions available.

I look forward to sharing more on our initiatives in the next months and announcing some important partnerships. Please continue to share you thoughts, suggestions and energy with us so that together we make PWA Milan an open environment for the free exchange of ideas, advice and support.

I wish you all a great new beginning,

Monica Pesce
President, PWA