August marks a significant moment on our shared journey – a time for reflection and the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

For the United States, August 26th is recognized as Women’s Equality Day, commemorating the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote…well, some women. As we know, not all women received that measure equally or immediately. It was and is a reminder that progress often comes in stages or steps. Some of those steps are bold, some unfinished And that we are called to keep moving forward toward full equity for all.

Internationally, August 26th also holds a special meaning as the founding day for BPW International in 1930. What Americans celebrate as Women’s Equality Day, BPW members around the globe (including us) as BPW Day – a day to honor our international sisterhood. As part of that celebration, BPW International encourages members to wear yellow and share photos on social media to raise visibility and joy and solidarity.

This month has already brought powerful reminders of what we can accomplish when we come together. Saturday (July 26th) BPW International’s UN Standing Committee, led by our International 1st Vice President Neelima Basnet, held a remarkable meeting, featuring all of the BPW International Standing Committees. Each Chair introduced themselves and their programming. I came away with at least 4 or 5 takeaways from each committee- that’s how energized and solution-focused the work was. It was 7am for me…and worth every moment. But BPW wasn’t done with my Saturday yet!

BPW California North District hosted a dynamic Zoom Training Day, filled with practical tools and generous sharing opportunities. The spirit of innovation and collaboration was truly energizing. If you weren’t there – you missed something terrific.

Ad hoc Letter on UN80 Initiative In keeping with our commitment to global engagement and advocacy, and with the support of your Board of Directors, I have signed the UN 80 Civil Society Declaration on behalf of NFBPWC. International President, Diana Barrigan has also signed on behalf of BPW International.

Here is the link: https://mailchi.mp/ngocsw.org/july2023-monthly-newsletter-10639558?e=e35388b7f8

You can sign in support of this letter as individuals. I encourage you to read it for yourself and decide whether you want to sign in support of this as individuals.

Another month, another amazing issue of NFBPWC’s Magazine – another opportunity to thank Michele Guarino, our Extraordinary Magazine Editor. We only have one issue left before she moves to Italy. Her creativity, commitment and deep love for this organization have left an indelible mark. Michele – Thank you!!! You are so very much appreciated.

There’s something powerful about this time of the year. – mid-summer, where reflection and momentum meet. I see our members stepping into leadership, raising their voices and building bridges across generations and borders. You remind me daily of why I am proud to serve as your President.

Speaking of being proud to be your President, and midsummer momentum….

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE!!!

About a year and two weeks ago, you elected a new administration for NFBPWC – and we in turn, selected a new group of committee chairs, making up the 2024-2026 Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Right out of the gate, we faced a massive and exciting shift in the US political landscape, prepared to represent USA at the International Congress and defend our members against difficult accusations, a national election and everything that came – and continues to come with it.

One year in and I am excited and motivated and looking forward to what the next year brings! I hope you all are too!

Welcome to August!!!

BARBARA BOZEMAN, PRESIDENT, NFBPWC, 2024-2026

Inspiring the Next Generation of NFBPWC Leaders

The world is evolving, and so must our leadership. As members of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women (NFBPWC), we are more than professionals, we are catalysts for change. Today, more than ever, we must invest in our greatest asset: future generations of feminist leaders. Since its founding in 1919, the National Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs has been unwavering in its mission: “to develop women’s professional, business, and leadership potential at all levels” (nfbpwc.org). As we embrace the 2024– 2027 triennium under BPW International’s theme, Inspire, Innovate, Empower, Transform, we must actively prepare the torchbearers of tomorrow: the next generation of feminist leaders (bpw- international.org).
Feminist leadership is about more than personal ambition—it’s a movement rooted in inclusion, equity, and transformative vision. It equips women to break down systemic barriers and amplify collective potential while embracing personal growth. BPW

International’s mission unites us globally to “develop the business, professional and leadership potential of women on all levels through advocacy, education, mentoring, networking, skill building, and economic empowerment programs and projects around the world” (bpw-international.org). In today’s world—marked by renewed threats to justice and equality—empowering women at all levels of their careers and lives is not optional; it’s essential.

NFBPWC has a strategic role in nurturing feminist leadership. There are opportunities to expand our engagement.

Mentorship by design: Seasoned members actively guide aspiring NFBPWC leaders—sharing insights, contacts, and tools. As exemplified by our Young BPWs on the Executive Committee, VP Advocacy Emily VanVleck and Young BPW Bryn Norrie, mentorship has the propensity to foster intergenerational collaboration and equip emerging women with a global vision (bpw-international.org

Amplifying young voices: Young BPW members are bringing fresh perspectives to global forums, national events, and local meetings. By including Young BPW members in leadership roles and international forums we are ensuring their voices shape BPW’s strategic direction (bpw-international.org).

Education & leadership programs: Our Lifelong Leadership & Learning (L3) modules, Young BPW events, and international event opportunities (both in person and online) empower young and seasoned professionals with the skills to lead with confidence and purpose (nfbpwc.org).

Global advocacy for equality: From BPW's consultative role at the UN Commission on the Status of Women to national public policy platforms focused on pay equity and health care, we’re modeling what feminist leadership looks like—from local chapters to international networks (bpw-international.org, nfbpwc.org). By continuing to share our experiences and provide a “brave space” for people from all walks of life, we increase our influence as an organization and expand our engagement.

Every interaction, whether leading a workshop, amplifying  public  policy,  or  supporting  a  fellow member, is part of a larger promise: the next generation will not walk alone. We’ll walk alongside them, listen, learn, and uplift so they can lead with purpose, drive, and impact.

The future of BPW isn’t just about sustaining our legacy, it’s about evolving it. It’s about ensuring that the next generation of feminist leaders is not only ready but resourced. With our support, they can build a world that is more just, more inclusive, and more equitable than the one we inherited.

Let’s lead them there.

Please continue to reach out to me personally or professionally as we continue our work to make NFBPWC a better organization, because together we are stronger.

Best Personal Wishes,

Megan Shellman-Rickard
Immediate Past National President
immpastpresident@nfbpwc.org

As your Secretary I would like to use my voice to provide my fellow sisters with helpful hints for a rapidly changing world.
Do you have a go-bag?
Most of my friends laughed at me for having a go-bag at home. They would say: You live in the US now, why do you need that? Well – on 9/11, I left my office near the Pentagon, to go home, collect the go-bag and drive to Baltimore. I spent the next few weeks there, out of harm’s way, with a working airport and more. But – a go-bag is useful when there is an extended electric cut, when bad weather hits, when there is police action stopping you from accessing your home or office. It takes little time to put together, and – if there is a need – you are so much better off than many others.
The FEMA recommendations for a go-bag are a good starting point, and you can search for additional recommendations on-line. In addition, consider the virtual go-bag noted below – that can be on the cloud,
on an external drive, or any means you consider secure and protected.
Virtual Go-Bags
Providing you have sufficient security for your data; I think it is prudent to back your valuable and important information up with digital copies and/or images. Examples:

• ü  Copies of your identification (license, passport, school, work, military, other id cards). If you lose the actual ones, the copies will make recovery easier.

• ü  Copies of your latest medical tests and reports, as well as of your latest scrips. I encourage people to make a narrative account of any medical issues, doctors seen, actions taken, medicines used, reactions if useful.

• ü  Copies of your home lease/purchase documents, insurance, mortgage documents, warranties, etc.

• Copies of your last will, health proxy, birth/death certificates, Marriage/Divorce papers, etc.

• ü  Photos of your valuables (for insurance estimation), of your mementos (which are irreplaceable), and of your important photographs.

• ü  Anything else that could be important for you to re- establish a sense of normalcy in your life.

Remember – if your house burns down, and you have a mortgage, your will still need to make your payments. Have all the needed documentation so the insurance company can step in for you as rapidly as possible.
My email – secretary@nfbpwc.org is always open! Thank you!
 
Good to Know: Essential Items for a FEMA Go Bag:

• Water and Food:A 3-day supply of water (at least one gallon per person per day) and non-perishable, high-energy food items like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit.

• First Aid:A well-stocked first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

• Light and Communication:A flashlight with extra batteries, a hand-crank or battery-powered AM/FM radio, and a portable cell phone charger.
  

• Shelter and Warmth:An emergency blanket, a change of clothes, sturdy shoes, and rain gear.
  

• Sanitation:Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation. Menstrual care items.
  

• Important Documents:Copies of important documents like identification, insurance cards, and medical records in a waterproof container.
  

Tools and Miscellaneous:

• A manual can opener, a whistle, a dust mask, local maps, and a multi-tool or knife.

• Cash:A small amount of cash in small bills, as electronic payment systems may be down.
  

Additional Tips:

• Customize: Tailor the contents of your Go Bag to your specific needs and the potential hazards in your area.

• Update Regularly: Check expiration dates on food and water and replace items as needed.

• Practice: Familiarize yourself with the contents of your Go Bag and practice using the items in a safe environment. Prepare each family-member.

Nermin K. Ahmad NFBPWC
Secretary
2024-2026

1st Vice President of Membership

The Membership Committee has been meeting monthly now on the third Monday of the month. The current main focus is to standardize the membership forms so that important information such as age range and birthday is included. This information is vital to create age-specific programs and recruit new members.
Please update your profile on the NFBPWC website.
Looking forward to your participation at our next membership meeting on July 21, 2025.

MARIA CECILIA DESOUSA
1ST VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP
NFBPWC 2024-2026

July is a powerful month for us – as Americans, as women and as members of NFBPWC.

In the summer of 1776, delegates from the thirteen colonies gathered to formally declare their independence from British rule. On July 4th, the Continental Congress adopted the declaration, marking the birth of a new nation.

In July of 1848, a group of women and men gathered in Seneca Falls, New York for the first women’s rights convention in the United States. Led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott, the attendees debated and adopted the Declaration of Sentiments, a powerful document modeled after the Declaration of Independence that called for equal rights for women, including the right to vote. Signed by 100 supporters, the declaration marked the formal beginning of the organized women’s rights movement in the United States.

In July of 1919, Dr. Lena Madesin Phillips brought together representatives from business and professional women’s clubs across the country to a national convention in St. Louis, Missouri. Recognizing the need for a unified voice to advocate for working women, they founded the National Federation of Business & Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc was established. The organization grew quickly, championing women’s financial independence, professional development and equal rights both nationally and internationally.

These three events – each born in July – are connected by more than dates on a calendar. They are bound by a common thread: a courageous act of naming injustice and declaring a vision for something better. The language may vary across the centuries, but the purpose remains the same – we stand for freedom, we stand for equality, and we stand for the rights of individuals to fully participate in society.

It is for this reason; you will find the full text of both the Declaration of Independence and the Declaration of Sentiments in this issue. Too often, these foundational documents are reduced to soundbites or inspirational quotes. They deserve more than passing attention – they deserve to be read in full, with the weight and seriousness they command.

These declarations are not just historical artifacts…yellowing with age. They are reminders of where we began, how far we’ve come and the work that still lies ahead. By reading them, we honor the voices of those who dared to speak boldly – and we prepare ourselves to carry that legacy forward with clarity, courage and conviction.

Happy Birthday to us all!

Warm regards,
Barbara Bozeman
President, NFBPWC
2024-2026

Women in Diplomacy – Esther Hymer’s Legacy

Esther Wanner Hymer (1898–2001) was a pioneering figure in international diplomacy and women's rights advocacy. As a representative of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (IFBPW) at the United Nations, she played a crucial role in promoting gender equality on a global scale. (nfbpwc.org)

Hymer's activism began early; as a student at the University of Wisconsin in 1920, she marched for the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Her commitment to peace and women's rights led her to become an aide to Margaret Hickey, who represented the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) at the 1945 San Francisco conference that established the United Nations.

Hymer served as the Director of International Relations for IFBPW and was its nongovernmental representative to the UN for six decades, focusing on women's issues. She was instrumental in the formation of the UN Commission on the Status of Hymer's legacy continues to inspire generations of women leaders and advocates for gender equality worldwide. Sylvia G. Perry and Livia M. Ricci published a book, Esther Hymer: A Bus to 42nd Street, in 1999 that details more about her efforts and experience as a diplomat representing BPW at the United Nations. NGO CSW/NY has also published a digitally accessible PDF that has more details about Hymer’s work with that organization and the United Nations: https://ngocsw.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FINAL-HISTORY-PROJECT- 2-compressed.pdf. Both highly recommended reads for BPW members from around the world and at all walks of life.

Sources for reference:

• https://ngocsw.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FINAL-HISTORY-PROJECT-2-compressed.pdfhttps://www.abebooks.com/first-edition/Esther-W-Hymer-Bus-42nd-Street/31209849305/bd
• https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2001-jun-01-me-5152-story.htmlwww.nfbpwc.org
• www.bpw-international.org

Please continue to reach out to me personally or professionally as we continue our work to make NFBPWC a better organization,

because together we are stronger.

Best Personal Wishes,

Megan Shellman-Rickard
Immediate Past National President
immpastpresident@nfbpwc.org

As your Secretary I would like to use my voice to provide my fellow sisters with helpful hints for a rapidly changing world.

Did you know your phone also was an emergency notification tool?

SOS – Emergency alert. I have looked at Samsung and Apple. This information is available online for all devices and systems. I have used it, and it works very well in the US (the blue article discusses innovations in South Africa!

Did you know that on a Samsung phone, an SOS can be triggered when you click the power button three or four times? Your emergency contacts will receive an SOS message, links to a map and the audio clip, photos and auto call (if those features have been activated).

To set up the SOS feature on a Samsung phone, follow these steps12345:

1. Pull down your notification bar and open "Settings."

2. Scroll down and select "Safety and emergency."

3. Select "Send SOS messages."

4. Toggle it on and choose your emergency contacts.

5. Choose if you want the SOS triggered by pressing the side button three or four times.

6. Select what you want your phone to do when you trigger the SOS.

This is useful if you are attacked, in fear of your life, if you are lost, or if you are being approached by people who give you reason to be concerned (including

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Good to Know: In addition (as of May 1, 2025):

Samsung has launched a free-to-use emergency subscription service called SOS+, exclusive to its Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 devices as part of a partnership with Aura for South Africa.

Built into the Samsung device, the SOS+ service uses geolocation technology to give users immediate access to security and medical services regardless of location. “Samsung isn’t just offering a service, we’re embedding access to safety directly into the everyday lives of our customers,” it said. “Samsung’s SOS+ is designed for instinctive use; it’s accessible with just one tap from the In Case of Emergency contact list, and there are multiple ways to access the service.”

The tech giant noted that only 17% of South Africans can access private ambulances through private aid schemes. It added that less than 13% have access to private security services, with this number falling to 1.2% in the country’s poorest communities. However, Samsung said it aims to change this by making emergency support more accessible in South Africa.

By dialling a toll-free number, an alert shares the user’s live location with Aura’s secure platform. The service can also be accessed via its app, SMS, or website with data-free functionality. Aura then dispatches its closest vetted medical or armed response service from its nationwide network of over 3,500 professionals, said Samsung. Those in distress also have the ability to track the arrival of the emergency services in real time using the app.

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This is useful if you are attacked, in fear of your life, if you are lost, or if you are being approached by people who give you reason to be concerned (including immigration agents for example, when you cannot pull your phone to make a call but must hand it over).

Further ( to turn setting on/off or to modify countdown feature)

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap Safety and emergency.

3. Tap Emergency SOS.

4. Tap the switch button to turn Emergency SOS on or off. Or to change the emergency countdown feature.

On an Apple:

How does Apple emergency contact work? Apple's Emergency SOS feature, when activated on iPhone or Apple Watch, automatically dials the local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the US) and shares your location with emergency services. It also alerts your emergency contacts with a text message containing your location and provides ongoing location updates. You can access this feature by pressing and holding the side button and either volume button on iPhone or the side button on Apple Watch.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. How it Works:

• Emergency Call: When you activate Emergency SOS, your device automatically dials the local emergency number.
• Location Sharing: Your location is shared with emergency services, allowing them to locate you quickly.
• Emergency Contact Notification: After the call ends, your emergency contacts are alerted via text message.
• Location Updates: Your emergency contacts receive ongoing location updates for a period after you've initiated the SOS.

2. Setting Up Emergency Contacts:

• Health App: Go to the Health app on your iPhone and tap on your profile picture.
• Medical ID: Tap on Medical ID, then tap Edit and scroll down to Emergency Contacts.
• Add Contacts: Tap the "+" button to add emergency contacts. You can add up to 25 people.

Edit and Save: Make any necessary edits, then tap Done to save your changes.

3. Using Emergency SOS:

iPhone: Opens in new tab Press and hold the side button and either volume button until the "Emergency SOS" slider appears. Drag the slider or continue holding the buttons until the countdown ends, and the call is initiated.

Apple Watch: Opens in new tab Press and hold the side button until the Emergency Call slider appears. Drag the slider or continue holding the side button until the countdown ends, and the call is initiated.

4. Additional Features:

Emergency SOS via Satellite: Opens in new tab On iPhone 14 and later models, you can use Emergency SOS to text emergency services when you're out of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage, according to Apple Support.

Sharing Medical ID: Opens in new tab You can choose to share your Medical ID information with emergency services when you call 911 or use Emergency SOS.

Emergency Contacts on Lock Screen: Opens in new tab Emergency contacts can be viewed on your iPhone's lock screen, even if the phone is locked.

My email – secretary@nfbpwc.org is always open!

Thank you!

Nermin K. Ahmad NFBPWC
Secretary
2024-2026

Happy June, BPW!

I couldn't think of a more fitting focus for this month’s advocacy message than Women in Diplomacy— especially since I’m writing to you from the airport in Frankfurt, fresh off the 18th BPW European Regional Conference and 12th Young BPW Symposium in Malta.

What an experience! Being part of an international organization like BPW reminds me that we are all women in diplomacy. Every time we connect with members from around the world—whether at a conference or on a Zoom call—we’re building bridges, deepening understanding, and opening the door to new opportunities. My encouragement to you this month: get involved in our international events. You

never know what relationships or ideas will spark when you do.

The conference was incredible—hats off to our Maltese sisters for hosting such a meaningful and beautifully organized gathering. One message that stuck with me all weekend was this: “Never let information stop with you.” Whether it’s an article, an event, or something you think another member would appreciate—pass it on. I’ll be making a real effort to do that more, and I invite you to do the same.

Let’s Talk About Women in Diplomacy

June 24, we celebrate the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. It’s a moment to recognize the women around the world who are leading peace talks, representing their countries, and shaping foreign policy.

But the truth is, there still aren’t enough women in those roles—and that matters. Research shows that when women are involved in negotiations, peace agreements are more likely to last. When diverse voices are part of the conversation, solutions are more inclusive and sustainable.

And here’s the thing: you don’t need a government title to be a woman in diplomacy. By being part of BPW, showing up for global conversations, and advocating for change—you already are.

Here’s How You Can Take Action This Month:

Use your voice.

Encourage your elected officials to support gender equity in diplomacy. Look into legislation like the Women, Peace, and Security Act, which promotes women’s participation in peace processes and leadership roles around the world.

Share stories.

Around June 24, take a moment to post about women in diplomacy—share a quote, an article, or even a personal story. Use #WomenInDiplomacy to join the conversation.

Encourage the next generation.

Know someone interested in global issues? Send them a scholarship, internship, or invite them to a BPW event. Let’s keep the pipeline strong and diverse.

Upcoming Dates to Keep in Mind:

● June 12 – World Day Against Child Labour A time to reflect on how girls are especially vulnerable in areas of conflict and economic hardship.

● June 19 – Juneteenth (U.S.) A day of remembrance, freedom, and justice— also a chance to reflect on how racial and gender equity intersect in global policy.

● June 24 – International Day of Women in Diplomacy

Celebrate it. Share it. Live it.

In Loving Memory

On a more somber note, our advocacy committee is grieving the loss of our dear colleague Linda Wilson of BPW East Los Angeles–Montebello. Linda was such a bright light—always ready to lend a hand, lead with heart, and stand up for what’s right. We are recommending an award be created in her honor to keep her legacy of service alive. Our hearts go out to Linda’s family and the entire BPW California Federation. She will be deeply missed.

Emily VanVleck
2nd Vice President of Advocacy
NFBPWC 2024-2026

Empowering Women in Business: A Vision for Growth and Collaboration

As the 1st Vice President of the National Business and Professional Women’s Association, I am honored to share insights on our ongoing mission to empower women in the business community.

As of May 2025, the total number of members in good standing is 451.The membership committee has been meeting regularly and has been very productive.

A few of the projects already completed or in the process are:

• New membership brochures in California.
• Plans to create short videos and add to social media ad YouTube.
• Business cards with QR code
• Use of meetup groups in Boulder

We're building the 2025-2026 Editorial Calendar for our national magazine (July 2025 - July 2026) and we are inviting all committees to help shape it.

A few of the projects already completed or in the process are:

• New membership brochures in California.
• Plans to create short videos and add to social media ad YouTube.
• Business cards with QR code
• Use of meetup groups in Boulder

We're building the 2025-2026 Editorial Calendar for our national magazine (July 2025 - July 2026) and we are inviting all committees to help shape it.

Deadline: May 31, 2025

In closing, I encourage all members to stay engaged, take advantage of the resources NFBPWC has to offer, and contribute to the vibrant community we’ve built. By working together, we can empower each other and ensure that our voices are heard in the world of business.

Warm regards,

MARIA CECILIA D SOUSA
1ST VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP
NFBPWC 2024-2026

Before my monthly greeting to you all – I want to take a moment to acknowledge the passing of our dear BPW sister Linda Wilson of California. She was a staunch advocate, a contrarian ally and someone whose absence will be deeply felt for long to come. I appreciated Linda for her humor and laughter and her passion. She personified the nobler womanhood relayed in the BPW Emblem Benediction:

“This Emblem binds us all, in one great sisterhood. It bids us hear our conscience call, for nobler womanhood…”

God Bless You and keep you, Linda – forever in our hearts.

~~~~

Dear NFBPWC Diplomat:

As we step into June, I’m reminded how the work we do as members of NFBPWC reflects not only who we are – but how we show up in the world.

On June 24th, the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, we recognize not only women appointed to diplomatic roles around the world, but also the countless women who practice diplomacy through international engagement, advocacy and leadership.

As members of BPW International and proudly representing the United States within this

global sisterhood, you are International Women of Diplomacy.

Whether participating through the many aspects of the United Nations, contributing to the Organization of American States, or collaborating across borders, we are part of a collective voice shaping global conversations. Our diplomacy is expressed through respectful dialogue, cultural understanding, and shared purpose – uniting nations in pursuit of a better world for women and girls everywhere.

From the United Nations website:  https://www.un.org/en/observances/women-in-diplomacy-day

This month also brings Flag Day on June 14^th, a reminder of the ideals we strive to uphold in our nation – liberty, equality, and justice.  As members of a global organization, we recognized the strength found in honoring our individual flags while working toward common global goals. 

And on June 15th, Father’s Day, we acknowledge the men -fathers, father figures, and allies – who support and encourage women’s leadership.  Their roles in shaping a more inclusive future are deeply valued. 

Returning from the BPW European Regional Conference in Malta, I was inspired by the passion and unity of our international sisters.  I look forward to sharing more about that experience in our next issue – but for now, I’ll simply say:  we are stronger because we are connected.  And when we bring that connection into every corner of our work – locally, nationally, and globally – we create lasting change. 

Thank you for being women of diplomacy and purpose.

In unity and sisterhood,

Barbara Bozeman

President, NFBPWC
2024-2026