discovery
FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
S E O U L I N T E R N AT I O N A L W O M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
CONTENTS
discovery Magazine SIWA NEWS
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Editor’s Letter
On the Cover
Presidents Letter
Sponsors
Mark Your Calendar
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SIWA SPOTLIGHT
Nominations for SIWA’s Executive Committee
SIWA & Diplomatic Community Bazaar
Bazaar Volunteers Special Thanks
Nature’s Doorstep by Veronica O’Connor
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8 11 14 16
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SIWA ACTIVITIES
Upcoming Tours
Past Tours
Participants enjoy Interest Group Gatherings - Autumn 2015
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Seoul International Women’s Association Seoul Finance Center Level 21, 136 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul Korea 04520 www.siwapage.com
February / March 2016 Discovery
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Editor's Letter
SIWA NEWS
held last November and look to the future, our spring Gala and AGM.
Happy New Year! As this magazine reaches you we will have moved into the year of the Red Monkey, according to both the Chinese zodiac and the mugs I see displayed in Starbucks. This is a year for adventure, but also a year of completion, or so I am told, so perhaps the best time for me to step down as editor and leave Korea to see where my next adventure will take me. It has been an honour to serve as editor and to be part of the SIWA Board. As SIWA continues to move forward, we also look to the past, to our roots. Since 1962, SIWA has been a place where women from around the world could meet, forge friendships, learn about Korea and other cultures, contribute their talents and ideas, and help improve the lives of those in need. I feel confident that our integrity and values will continue to see us go from strength to strength. In this issue we look back our amazing bazaar
To all of our board members, thank you for the incredible work that you do and to our members, thank you for reading Discovery Magazine. Have a beautiful and prosperous year.
Jen Skuse
discoveryeditor@siwapage.com
February / March 2016 Discovery
On the Cover
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Cover Photo: Matt Douma Editor: Jen Skuse Graphic Designer Na-Hyun Hong Printed by 10 Magazine Advertising Coordinator Kyoko Kawaguchi Contributors Courtney Snede, Veronica O’Connor Discovery Photo Files
All photos used by Discovery Magazine, unless otherwise stated, have been provided by SIWA volunteers and are the property of SIWA. Photographers who donate photos for SIWA’s use retain the rights to their photos.
Contributions Welcome!
Discovery is published bi-monthy (six issues per year) by SIWA, with articles and content written by our members and associates. It is printed and distributed exclusively for SIWA members. All opinions expressed in these articles are those of the respective authors and may not reflect the official position of SIWA. All rights reserved SIWA 2015. No part of this publication may be repro-duced in any form without prior written consent of SIWA.
President’s Message
SIWA NEWS Premium Platinum Sponsors
“Alone
we can do so little, together
we can do so much.” ---Helen Keller
What an extraordinary day! November 9, 2015 represented 53rd year in which women from diverse cultures converged to achieve a common goal; to raise funds to help those living in the most vulnerable communities in Korea. As a first time participant of the Bazaar, I had the privilege to gain a fresh perspective.
As many months of planning took place, I was truly moved and impressed by the countless number of SIWA volunteers who worked day and night to execute the largest international fundraising event in Seoul. Majority of us will neither stay in Korea for too long, nor have any real vested interest here; Korea is a temporary abode. However, we all share in the desire to contribute and make a difference in our host community while partaking in its civic duties. It is with this passion and spirit that made my experience with the Bazaar a memorable one. We are all global citizens after all! What a great way to serve others.
Platinum Sponsors
All the accomplishments could not have been realized without the generous and continued support from our sponsors and our collaborative partner ASAS, Ambassadors’ Spouses Association of Seoul. I would be remiss if I did not give a special recognition to Courtney Snede, Bazaar Chair, Bockhee Lee, VP, Fundraising, and the fabulous Bazaar Team. You have raised the bar on excellence. Thank you for your help to continue in the tradition of “Enhancing lives through friendship, enrichment and charity.”
Anne Choe
Silver
Bronze Mr. John Walker Alali Food COSTCO Wholesale Korea HEILL Paris Ocean’s Halo Tupperware Unilever Korea
Friend Artisan Gelato Shop CasAntonio Restaurant
Lee Jewerly Manhattan Custom Tailor Maple Tree House Restaurant Mr. Sunjae Lee Nestle Korea Ltd New York Wholistic Care On the Border Park Hyatt Seoul Park Sung-Hee Ceramics Renaissance Seoul Hotel Sheraton Grande Walkerhill Somerset Palace Seoul Spouses of MOFA Suji’s Restaurant Teng Teng Skin Clinic The Arrival Store The Roasting Coffee Trevia Restaurant Vatos Urban Tacos
February / March 2016 Discovery
British Airways Chevron Korea Inc. Sungjoo Foundation Volvo Trucks Korea
Coco Lounge Salon Conrad Seoul Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Time Square Create Wellness Eden Pottery Ford Sales & Service Korea France Gourmet Good Morning Vietnam Grand Hiton Seoul Guillaume Bakery High Street Market IKEA International Museum of Contemporary Art KB Korea _Krombacher Beer Kicho Cosmetics Koreana Antique Kyungsin Crafthouse
Gold Sponsors
To learn about the benefits of becoming a SIWA Sponsor, please contact Jiyoon at sponsorsiwa@siwapage.com. The marked ones above are the gala sponsors.
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SIWA NEWS
Welcome New SIWA Leaders Robin Carney Newsletter Manager
Nationality: American Proud SIWA Member since: August 2015
newsletter@siwapage.com
Robin, a dual American-Portuguese citizen, joined SIWA in August 2015. She graduated from Penn and returned to Wharton for her MBA. She worked for Deloitte Consulting in New York and Lisbon, then moved into the non-profit sector, becoming Vice President of a Portuguese breast cancer charity. She then moved to Brussels and worked in fundraising for BIG against breast cancer. She continued this work remotely after moving to Warsaw. Robin is excited to explore Asia with her husband and 2 daughters. Robin can be reached at newsletter@siwapage.com.
Neeti Virmani Blog Manager
Nationality: Indian Proud SIWA Member since: October 2015
blog@siwapage.com
Irene Nuutila Graphics Designer
Nationality: Finnish Proud SIWA Member since: April 2015
February / March 2016 Discovery
graphics@siwapage.com
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Irene is a Finn who has also worked in England and studied in Germany. She came to Korea in September 2014. She studied Media Engineering and worked first in client service and then 3,5 years as Account Manager at Konica Minolta in the sales of professional printing solutions for printing houses. She is passionate with travelling and foreign cultures, photographing, sports and she loves animals. On her free time in Korea she is also teaching English and Finnish and learning Korean in return.
An INSEAD alumna, Neeti has 15 years experience with leading Indian brands in Telecom, FMCG, Media & Entertainment – Airtel, Pepsi, Aircel & RBNL, in senior leadership roles. She moved to Korea with her husband in September 2015 & volunteered for SIWA Charity Bazaar 2015. A technology freak, she draws her energy from Yoga, Travelling, Music, Reading, Adventure Sports, Writing & Photography. Aspires to teach underprivileged kids & looks forward to applying her professional experience at SIWA.
Executive Committee
Committee
President - Anne Choe
Bazaar - Courtney Snede
Vice President, Brand Communications - Neelum Sharma
Blog - Neeti Virmani
Vice President, Fundraising - Bockhee Lee
Diplomatic liaison - Raheela Khan
Vice President, Operations - Mhyla Borkowski
Enrichment - Rita Sahu
Board Administrator - Ariane Amiot
Gala -
Treasurer Co-chair - Mikyung Park
Graphics - Irene Nuutila
Treasurer Co-chair - Magdalena Petko Rozanska
Invitations - Theresa Kang
president@siwapage.com
vpbrand@siwapage.com
vpfundraising@siwapage.com
vpoperations@siwapage.com
boardadmin@siwapage.com
treasurer@siwapage.com
treasurer@siwapage.com
SIWA NEWS
2015 - 2016 SIWA Leaders Directory
bazaar@siwapage.com
blog@siwa.com
diplomat@siwapage.com
enrichment@siwapage.com
gala@siwapage.com
graphics@siwapage.com
invitations@siwapage.com
Invitations - Vicki Frame
invitations@siwapage.com
Standing Committee
Discovery Editor - Jennifer Skuse
discoveryeditor@siwapage.com
Hospitality Chair - Karin Stangeland
hospitality@siwapage.com
Newcomers’ Chair - Michelle Morrison
newcomers@siwapage.com
Public Relations Chair - Fitri Rahayuni Isenbeck
publicrelations@siwapage.com
Special Events Chair - Courtney Snede
specialevents@siwapage.com
sponsorSIWA@siwapage.com
Tours & Interest Groups Chair - Greta Tonnon
tours@siwapage.com, Interestgroups@siwapage.com
Welfare Chair - Mahmooda Chaudhry
w elfare@siwapage.com
marketing@siwapage.com
Membership - Sinda Chun
membership@siwapage.com
Membership Representative - Kelly Yoon
membershipREP@siwapage.com
Newsletter - Robin Carney
newsletter@siwapage.com
Nominating Committee - Greta Tonnon
nominate@siwapage.com
Social Media - Jessica Raeside
socialmedia@siwapage.com
Content Manager - Sandhya Ramabadran
contentmanager@siwapage.com
Website Manager - Mhyla Borkowski
websitemanager@siwapage.com
Welfare Liaison to Community Service and Bazaar - Lydia Koh communityservice@siwapage.com
February / March 2016 Discovery
Sponsorship Chair - Jyoon Song
Marketing - Kyoko Kawaguchi
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SIWA NEWS
Mark Your Calendar
For more details on any of these and many other amazing events please visit our website: www.siwapage.com
February 24, 2016 SIWA Coffee Morning at Conrad Seoul Hotel, 9.30am-12noon. Our guest speakers are Gina and John Walker. They will talk about their passion for animal rights and fight against animal cruelty. The topic of their talk is” Save Bears in Korea”. Also at our February Coffee Morning the diplomatic community will be recognized for their participation in the Bazaar. For more information about our speakers and to register for our Coffee Morning please visit our website: http://siwapage.com/activities/events/siwa-coffee-morning-2016-02/
March 16, 2016 Invitation for Annual General Meeting at Conrad Seoul Hotel. Join us for SIWA’s Annual General Meeting where we will take the time to review the past year.
February / March 2016 Discovery
• Review SIWA finances • Welfare contributions to charities • Thank volunteers • Election of the 2016-2017 Executive Board Members • Introduction of new SIWA Regular Board Members For more information visit: http://siwapage.com/activities/events/siwa-coffee-morning-march-annual-general-meeting-agm/
April 9, 2016 SIWA Spring Gala ‘An Evening in Shangri-la’ An Asian-themed evening of fun, food and fundraising await you at the SIWA Annual Charity Gala! Net proceeds from the evening including silent and live auction will be allocated to support local charities in Korea. For more information visit:
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http://siwapage.com/activities/events/siwa-annual-charity-gala-2016/
SIWA NEWS
February / March 2016 Discovery
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SIWA SPOTLIGHT
Nominations for SIWA’s Executive Committee Dear SIWA Members, Greetings from the 2016 Nominating Committee! Jessica Raeside, Vicki Frame, Milly Kim, Shubha Maudgal, and Greta Tonnon invite all SIWA members to participate in the 2016-2017 Executive Committee nomination process and encourage you to volunteer by serving on the SIWA Board. The Executive Committee shall be voted in by the SIWA members at the Annual General Meeting on March 16th. As required by our bylaws, we are taking nominations for all Executive Committee positions : PRESIDENT The President is the chief administrative officer of SIWA and chair of the Board of Directors. She is an ex-officio member of all SIWA committees except the Nominating Committee. While not performing the actual work, the president has the ultimate responsibility to ensure the functions and activities of each committee are carried out in accordance with SIWA by-laws and policies.
TREASURER The Treasurer monitors and manages the financial position of SIWA. She oversees its financial administration including receipts, disbursements, and performance against budget. She is responsible for all SIWA financial accounts.
February / March 2016 Discovery
BOARD ADMINISTRATOR
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The Board Administrator maintains the records of the Board, ensures effective management of SIWA records, and is responsible for all aspects of planning Board meeting and activities. She also manages all Google tools, such as Google Groups and Google Drive.
VICE PRESIDENT (3) There are three Vice Presidents who coordinate and oversee the function of assigned Standing Board Committees. At least one of the Vice-Presidents must be able to speak and write Korean fluently and shall act as liaison with the Korean Community at large. One of the Vice Presidents will assume the President’s job function when necessary. Currently SIWA’s functions are organized under three Vice Presidents :
Vice President, Brand Communications
Responsible for the development of SIWA’s brand strategy and contribute to the organization’s overall strategic planning process. She will develop a world-class brand management plan for SIWA, directly managing activities that promote, enhance, and protect the organization’s brand reputation. Manages and collaborates with Hospitality, Newcomers, & Public Relations.
Vice President, Operations
Responsible for all systems and processes. She is in charge of all internal communication systems between SIWA leaders and external communications systems from SIWA leaders to SIWA members. Manages and collaborates with Blog, Discovery, Invitations, Membership, Tours, Interest Groups, & Website.
Vice President, Fundraising
Responsible for managing all fundraising efforts on behalf of SIWA, including but not limited to Annual Charity Gala & SIWA Diplomatic Bazaar. She is further responsible for developing fundraising strategy that will better position SIWA within the corporate domain in Korea. Manages and collaborates with Marketing, Special Events, & Sponsorship.
If you are interested in any of the positions or want to find out more information please contact Greta Tonnon at nominate@siwapage.com
Ask SIWA members to describe what SIWA means to them, and you are likely to hear a lot different answers. Why? Because SIWA is as diverse as its membership. Can this special organization provide you with a new opportunity? As former member Lorrie Gomes so perfectly expressed in 2013, the answer to that question is, likely, yes. “The SIWA Board – Committed to You Once a month, a group of very diverse women gather at the Seoul Club. These women are different from each other in many ways – age, interests, education, nationality, background – each is unique. Yet, something brings them together each month. What is it you ask? Their commitment to you, as Board members of the Seoul International Women’s Association (SIWA). The Board is the governing body for SIWA and has responsibility for the affairs, funds, and properties of the association. It consists of the Executive Committee elected each March, and the Chairperson of the various Board Committees. Board members, in addition to organizing and running their respective communities, meet to propose, discuss, plan and vote on issues that directly affect SIWA and its membership. Whether it’s deciding on the ticket price for an event, the location of the bazaar or the amount of money donated to a particular welfare organization, the Board looks at each issue thoroughly and thoughtfully. The Board is the guiding force in ensuring SIWA is the kind of organization that best serves its membership. Decisions are fully discussed and made with not just the present situation in mind, but also future implications. Since these decisions affect the entire SIWA membership in one way or another, Board members must be more than just representatives of their individual committees. Each Board member brings a different perspective to the boardroom. This diversity means each segment of SIWA membership is represented, from young mothers to grandmothers to women without kids, from career women to stay-at-home moms, from international expats to Korean nationals.
Making the commitment to represent SIWA membership by serving on its Board is a great responsibility, but most Board members feel they get more out of their participation than they give. Many are grateful to SIWA for the support and friendship it creates and want to afford the same for others. Some want the challenge and fulfillment of doing a job well. Others want the opportunity to use their talents or even learn new skills.
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
SIWA Board reaches out
Fun is probably not the first word that comes to mind when describing the SIWA Board. Words like responsible, serious, reliable, dependable, hard-working seem to come to mind before fun does. Surprising enough, however, fun is the word many of the current SIWA Board use to describe the group. The women on the Board share a great sense of humor, and laughter is a common sound at any meeting. Opportunities to get to know each other better, like group dinners and retreats, make doing the serious business of the Board easier. The Board is a group of women committed to you and SIWA. Their hard work and effort ensure the continued success of our organization. At the start of each year, the search for new Board members begins. Sometimes it’s easy to find women willing to take their place on the Board. Sometimes it’s not. This year, if asked, “Would you like to be on the Board?” Please think about it. It may turn out to be one of the best commitments you’ll ever make.”
Reprinted from Discovery Magazine, February/March 2013 - Article by Lorrie Gomes Photos; Annual General Meeting 2015, photo courtesy of Mihe Shin
February / March 2016 Discovery
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February / March 2016 Discovery
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
Share Culture, Share Love, Share Life The SIWA Bazaar is an annual event, held in November, where embassies, sponsors, and volunteers come together to raise support for charities and needs in South Korea. Thousands of people attended the 53rd Annual Bazaar at the Lotte Hotel Seoul on November 9, 2015. Embassies imported goods from their own countries; restaurants, charities, and local clubs and businesses displayed their food and goods, and donated prizes for raffles--both small and great. Volunteers from SIWA sold raffle tickets, guided visitors, and helped the embassies and clubs with logistical assistance. All of these efforts combined for one purpose and goal: to meet the needs of those less fortunate and to make Korea a better place for both native Koreans and foreign expats alike.
WELFARE SPOTLIGHT
2015 SIWA & Diplomatic Community Bazaar
Letter from the 2015 Bazaar Chair Thank you to all who participated and volunteered in the 2015 SIWA and Diplomatic Community Bazaar. It was a magnificent day with a great deal of fun and warm memories still with us all. The response from all participants – Embassies, Vendors, Charities, Sponsors and Performers - has been overwhelming. Without you and the support of the community here in Seoul the day would not have been possible. Our hard-working Bazaar Planning Team and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the day’s goals were met – Fun, Friendship and Fundraising! The community came together with a warm heart and worthy charities will be reaping the benefits throughout 2016. With the profit of the day over 80 million KRW distribution will be well received! Here’s looking forward to the 2016 Bazaar!
Courtney Snede
You’re Invited! Celebrate the success of the 2015 Bazaar at the February Coffee Morning. At this event the Diplomatic Community will be recognized for their support. Wednesday, February 24 9:30 am - 12 pm Conrad Hotel Seoul W20,000 for Pre-registered SIWA Member W25,000 for Pre-registered Non-member W30,000 for at-the-door tickets (both SIWA Member & Non-member)
Bazaar Opening Ceremony SIWA wishes to express our warm gratitude to all participants: Embassies -- Women’s Organizations -- Charities -- Sponsors -- Vendors -- Performers -- Volunteers -- Visitors to the 2015 Bazaar SIWA was honored to welcome our special guests to officially open the 53rd Annual SIWA and Diplomatic Community Bazaar. Our sincere thanks to these gracious ladies:
We also thank the representatives from Hana Bank, one of SIWA’s generous sponsors, who presented the SIWA President and Bazaar Chair with a cash donation. Ms. Kyung-Hee Kim, wife of the CEO of Hana Financial Group Ms. Yeon-Gil Kim, wife of the CEO of Hana Bank Mr. Sun-Gyu Kim, Dept. Head of KEB Hana Bank
February / March 2016 Discovery
Ms. Jasmine Lee, National Assembly Woman Ms. Ki-Soon Lee, Director General of Women’s Policy, Ministry of Gender Equality & Family Ms. Nan-Hee Kang, wife of the Mayor of Seoul Ms. Hye-Kyung Kim, wife of the 2nd Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Ms. Amal Lahlou, President of ASAS (Ambassadors Spouses’ Association in Seoul) and the wife of the Ambassador of Morocco Ms. Raheela Khan, SIWA Diplomatic Liaison & the wife of the Ambassador of Pakistan Ms. Jong-Nam Jo, President of YWCA Seoul
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WELFARE SPOTLIGHT
Bazaar Income & Expenses Income as of January 1, 2016 Sponsors Embassies Organizations Charities Other SIWA (Korea Booth, Lucky Draw, Grand Raffle, Welfare Table) Vendors Total Revenue
Expenses as of January 1, 2016 54,000,000 18,311,000 4,721,000 16,386,000 1,027,000 7,988,800 6,919,500 109,353,300
Venue (including Orientation Tea) 22,687,500 Printing, Advertising, Misc 1,671,060 Partitions 3,108,000 Corsages 350,000 Photography 400,000 Lucky Draw 133,500 Total Expenses 28,350,060 Net Income
81,003,240
Beneficiaries of SIWA Welfare funds since the 2015 Bazaar Nov 2015 - Dec 2016 Organization Need Met Amount The Rainbow Community (For people with disabilities) Yang Yang Children’s Center (For children of single parents) Saenal Study Room (For children of low-income families)
Inflatable swimming pool Van tires, heating, uniforms, camera Building repairs
3,800,000 5,400,000 5,552,500
Participating Embassies, Organizations and Charities
February / March 2016 Discovery
Embassies
Algeria Australia Azerbaijan Bangladesh Belgium Cote d’Ivoire Dominican Republic Egypt Georgia Indonesia Iran Israel Japan Kazakhstan Malaysia Mongolia Morocco New Zealand Nordic Club (Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden)
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Pakistan Paraguay Poland Portugal Russia Senegal Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan USA Vietnam Zambia
Organizations
Ambassadors Spouses’ Association in Seoul (ASAS) American Women’s Club of Korea (AWC) Australia New Zealand Association of Korea (ANZA) Deutscher Club Seoul Garden Club of Seoul
Charities
Bitdulre study room Chun Choen Welfare Center Eastern Social Welfare Society Emmaus Francisco’s House Holt Rehabilitation Center Incheon NK Support Center Korea Lowvision Association Maesil Orphanage Morning Star Myungdo Welfare Center Planting Love Seoul Children’s Welfare Committee Seoul Shelter for Women Silver World St. Benedict Sheltered Workshop Yang Yang Children’s Center
2015 Bazaar Planning Team Amy Lee Publications, Public Relations Ariane Amiot Vendor Coordinator Bo Kim Public Relations Courtney Snede Bazaar Chair Fitri Isenbeck Public Relations Chair Gazal Srivastava Public Relations Jana Hennig Logistics Coordinator Lydia Koh Welfare Liaison Michelle Pardo Bazaar Co-Chair Naoko Fujita Grand Raffle Robbie Schuldt Entertainment, Photography Assistant Sandhya Ramabadran Volunteer Coordinator Theresa Kang Lucky Draw Veronica Akhter Entertainment
WELFARE SPOTLIGHT
2015 Volunteers
SIWA Board Members and Chairs assisting the Bazaar in an official capacity Anne Choe President Bockhee Lee VP Fundraising Jessica Raeside Social Media Jiyoon Song Sponsorship Chair Magda Petko-Rozanska Treasurer Mahmooda Chaudry Welfare Chair Mikyung Park Treasurer Neelum Sharma VP Brand Sinda Chun Membership Chair
Bazaar Entertainment Thank you to the wonderful performers that serenaded us at the Bazaar. ● Kin Trio East Jazz Music ● Dwight School Early Childhood Division String Ensemble and Dwight Lower School String Ensemble ● The Cordão de Ouro Capoeira Group and an introduction to the Art of Capoeira ● KTTI KBRI Seoul Indonesian folk dance ● Latin Music featuring Alessandra Pontes and Andrea Aru ● Classical Vocal Music provided by Camarata Music Company ● Harpist Sue Min Yoon ● Z-in Nation Zumba Dance ● Violinist Erica HyoWon Jang and the Danceable Helen Keller
Entertainment
February / March 2016 Discovery
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SIWA SPOTLIGHT
2015 BAZAAR VOLUNTEERS Aeri Lee
Farhath Irfan
Mary ann mejia
Aeri, Lee
Greta Tonnon
Michelle Morrison
Agnes Kim
Han Suan
Milla Taylor
Amanda D’Arcy
Hannah Jeeyoung Chang
Min Jae, Lee
Andie Simons
Hee-seo Jeon
Min Kyoung Kim
Andrea Trebesh
Huh Jong Wook
Min Phillips
annie kim
Jenny Ha
Neeti Virmani
Aryanti Arbian
Jenny Jung
Nhan Thi Thuy
Bless Kazacos
Jeon Hyae Su
Paulina Brennan
Bo young , Lee
jeongmin lee
Rhonda Kupka
Burachud Sirirutanaprapan
Jessica Raeside
Rita
Cho Hyang Sil
Jill Baskin
Robin Carney
Cindy Dodge
Jonghee Kim
Sae Young Choi
Deborah Hong
Kaung Htet Myint
Samanthi Kariyawasam
deborah turner
Lee Ha Neul
Seline Jung
Dharshini Kunaskran
Lissa Miner
Shubha Maudgal
Dong song Cho
luciane borges
So Jung Park
enkhchimeg
MaLee Xiong
Sylvia Schreiner
EunJi Lee
Marie Iseki
Teri Hartman Veronica O’Connor Veronica Witkowski Vicki Frame Yeonkyung,Kim Yooney Choi yu kyoung kim Yun Seongryun Hannah Chang Annie Cho Sinda Chun Kelly Yoon Linda Lee Magdalena Petko Rozanska Catherine Diler Linda Gocken
February / March 2016 Discovery
Maria Seidl Karen Stadnikia Clara Jong Youngsil Park Lydia Koh Natasha Whasook Soon Barbara Milly Katie
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Pauline
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
February / March 2016 Discovery
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SIWA SPOTLIGHT
Nature’s Doorstep – Just a Subway or Bus Ride Away
Clang! Clang! Clang! My early morning hike sets off to the sounds of a city already at work. As I make my way to the trailhead, large scrap yards and rows of idling trucks soon give way to the chattering of birds and the low hum of city life in the distance.
February / March 2016 Discovery
Welcome to the Seoul Trail (Seoul Dulle-gil), a 157-kilometer/97-mile set of trails looping around the city. Or, as I call it: my urban oasis.
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On this day, I’m trekking one of the trail’s eight sections. Like most Seoul hiking, this one kicks off conveniently from a subway stop, through some neighborhoods, and then on to the trail itself. Within minutes, I’m transported to another world. It’s a crisp late August morning, hinting at the cooler weather just around the corner. Lots of tall pine trees dot the path and my efforts are soon rewarded with beautiful views of the city. Passing hikers and I exchange smiles and hellos, and I sense our shared appreciation for this special place.
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
With well-maintained and clearly marked paths—and stairs for the most challenging terrain—it is easy to see why the Seoul Trail is a draw in any season. As a newcomer to Seoul and an occasional hiker at best, I found these trails easy to navigate as well as a great way to explore the city’s neighborhoods, witness how Korea’s nature changes with the seasons, and get some fresh air and exercise—especially after a long, cold winter. Back on the trail, I reach a bit of a milestone: a new stamp in my Seoul Trail “passport” booklet. Each trail has a small red stamping station to track progress towards completing all the sections. When the booklet fully stamped, a certificate from the Seoul Metropolitan Government is awarded. That, along with the promise of resting my tired feet, are just the incentives I need to get to the finish line! For more information about the Seoul Trail, visit http://english.seoul. go.kr/take-walk-along-157-kilometer-seoul-dulle-gil-spring/
- Veronica O’Connor
February / March 2016 Discovery
volvo trucks
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February / March 2016 Discovery
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
www.kis.or.kr
Korea International School February / March 2016 Discovery
Through the five Core Values of Global Citizenship, Integrity, Adaptability, Balance in Life and Empowerment, KIS strives to build the skills necessary for the success of each student. These skills are developed through a comprehensive educational approach making use of conventional and unconventional classroom instruction methods at KIS. The teaching staff at Korea International School is dedicated to this philosophy and they use differentiated lessons to support the development of well-rounded learners.
Pangyo Campus (PK-G12) Seoul Campus (PK-G5) Jeju Campus (PK-G12)
82-31-789-0505 | kisinfo@kis.or.kr | 27, Daewangpangyo-ro 385beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13543, Korea 82-2-3496-0510 | eyinfo@kis.or.kr | 408, Gaepo-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 6324, Korea 82-64-741-0509 | kisjeju@kis.ac | 11 San, Gueok-ri, Daejeong-eup, Seoguipo-si, Jeju-do, Korea 63644
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SIWA ACTIVITIES
UPCOMING SIWA TOURS 2016 Feb/March
Current information for tours can be found at: http://siwapage.com/activities/tours/. Some details may have changed, and more tours may have been added. To register for a tour: Registrations are made via our website one month in advance of each tour. Registration forms are located at the bottom of the tour description. Scroll to the bottom of the tour description, complete the registration form and submit. Online registration will open 1 month before the tour. Pricing: Please note that Non-SIWA Members pay an additional W10,000 for SIWA Welfare Fund.
February 20 Lighting Festival at the Garden of Morning Calm The Garden of Morning Calm is beautiful to visit any time of year, especially during the Winter Lighting Festival. During this festival, the whole garden is adorned with bright LED lights illuminating trees and flowers in vibrant colors. The whole family can enjoy this fantastic visual experience. For a comfortable trip, we will go by charter bus this year. Coordinators: Fitri Isenbeck & Vicki Frame
February 17 Dongdaemun Toy and Stationery Stores Alley
February / March 2016 Discovery
February 16 Ski Trip to Yangji Pine Ski Resort
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Two times this season, SIWA will offer a skiing day trip to different ski resorts around Seoul in cooperation with the German Club in Seoul. Our second joint trip is to Yangji Pine Ski Resort, an all-season recreational complex located in the magnificent Dokjosan Mountain in Gyeonggi-do. We will leave Seoul early using our own cars for the 45 – 60 minute trip to the resort. We plan to start skiing around 9:00 am. Equipment rental is available at the resort. You may ski individually or in groups until about 1:30 pm. We will have a quick lunch together, then head back to Seoul. Coordinator: Ines Hoehenleitner Leader: Matthias Geissler
Are you looking for special toys, stationery products, Hello Kitty items, bike, birthday party items, or a Carnival costume this year? Then you can’t miss this Dongdaemun toys and stationery alley tour. Dongdaemun Stationery Alley was established during the mid-1960s. There are over 100 stationery and toy wholesalers in this alley and it is still one of the most popular places for bargain shoppers. Coordinator: Fitri Isenbeck
February 24 Spa and Clinic Tour This popular tour is being offered again so more people can experience a Spa and Clinic Tour. Korea is gaining a reputation as a plastic surgery mecca: a place where doctors are highly skilled, citizens are more than willing and the technology is top-notch. Men and women from all over the world come to Korea have their noses tweaked, chins thinned and fat removed or shifted. We will tour one such facility offering plastic surgery and spa treatments: the award winning JK Plastic Surgery Center. Tour Coordinator: Patricia Tiedemann Tour Leader: Yaewon Kim
March 14 Chung Young Yang Embroidery Museum Join the guided tour of the Chung Young Yang Embroidery Museum, home to an extensive collection of embroidered and woven textiles. The collection represents East Asia’s numerous historical periods and geographic regions, and includes additional pieces from around the world. Afterwards, we will receive an embroidery demonstration and lesson. Located at Sookmung Women’s University, the museum is involved in exhibition, conservation, and education. The university and is poised to become a leading center for scholarship in embroidery and textile arts.
The Tour Coordinators’ Introduction as presented in the December/January edition of Discovery, is how the Team was composed at the beginning of the actual SIWA year, on May 1st 2015. Early December, Linda Gocken and Robbie Schuldt have left the team due to relocation plans. Two new ladies have joined the Team late November 2015 : Maria Seidl as Tour Coordinator, and Sujeon Shin as Korean Support.
Coordinator: Lissa Miner
Maria
Coordinator: Ines Hoehenleitner Leader: KyungHee Park – Tea Ceremony Instructor
Sujeong
Maria is German and moved to Seoul in April 2011 and since this time she is an active member of SIWA. 2013-2015 she was responsible for SIWAtreasury. She likes exploring the country with Germanbrass-bands and enjoys all kinds of market to get all materials for handcraft and loves to share her knowledge with others. She is interested in music, cycling and knitting. Sujeong is often called “Sweet Su” by her dear friends. She loves to read and dance, and enjoys travelling. Is the proud Mom of two beautiful children: Rachael and Bryan. Su is fluent in English, Japanese and Korean. She is a freelance interpreter and a certified tour guide.
February / March 2016 Discovery
March Tea Shops and Tea Houses in Insadong This popular tour is being offered again so more people can experience the expertise of Mrs. Park and enjoy a relaxing morning of drinking tea and shopping for tea supplies. In our first tea house, Jidaebang, Ms. Park will show us how to prepare lotus tea and describe Korea’s tea tradition and ceremony. Drinking tea, particularly on a cold winter day in a cozy teahouse, will fill our bodies with warmth and well-being.
SIWA ACTIVITIES
Tour Coordinators, Introduction
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SIWA ACTIVITIES
Participants enjoy SIWA Tours - Winter 2015 October 22 - Gangwon-do Cultural Day Trip
We had an informative visit and learned about Arirang as a popular form of Korean folk song. The 5 day market was fun to explore and the hills and fall foliage in Jangneung made the visit to the tomb of Danjong very peaceful and beautiful. Thank you to the Senior Public Diplomacy Group which provided the bus and English translation about these special UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Linda Gocken, USA
I enjoyed this tour very much, all the sites were very interesting. The way was long but it was a good chance to see the Korean landscape. The tour guides were very animated and helpful.
October 28 - Hiking at Bukhansan Dulle-gil
Great trail this time of year, great fun and exercise with great friends. A wonderful day.
Andie Simons, USA
November 4 - Bongeun-sa and the Modern Revival of Korean Buddhism
Marcela, Mexico
November 5 - Seoul City Wall Hike 3 Namsan
Beautiful temple right in Seoul. Great educational experience.
February / March 2016 Discovery
Doria Garms-Sotelo, USA
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The views were absolutely beautiful, especially now with the leaves changing!
Robin Carney, USA This was my first siwa trip and I enjoyed it thoroughly with all the members. I am amazed to see the energy which the ladies of different countries have and their enthusiasm. The nature was at its best to support the hiking. Looking forward for the next trip.
Rita Sahu , India
November 6 - 2nd Seoul Kimchi Festival It was a rocking, unique and awesome experience. A great big thanks to Lissa and Bockhee!!!
JJ Wang Aebischer, Switzerland
This was a great tour! I am so happy I participated and my husband wants to go especially to the restaurant!
Paulina Brennan, USA
November 17 - Seoul City Wall Hike 4 Naksan
November 12 - Dreaming Camera Photo Exhibition
SIWA ACTIVITIES
November 11 - Explore Dongdaemun Handbag and Fabric Markets
I recommend this tour for a couple of reasons. It was fun to see the photos and learn some of the photographers’ stories and inspirations. This was also a great way to learn about a program supported through SIWA charities committees. Third, we could purchase some limited edition photos taken by young photographers. While this program teaches photography, it does so much more by supporting the students and expanding their personal vision about their futures. Kudos to all the students and volunteers involved!
Lissa Miner, USA
December 8 - Christmas Decorations Market
Thank you to Mary Ann for her excellent job of guiding the Seoul City Wall Hike. What a wonderful day we had with the beautiful trees, fall leaves, blue sky and lively conversations. You made my day extra special. This is my last hike. I will miss the wonderful international ladies of SIWA.
Linda Gocken, USA
The tour was great and perfect for someone who had never been to the Market before. I felt we had plenty of time and weren’t rushed. Lunch afterwards was Korean and delicious!
Amy Millican, USA
I’ve been to Namdaemun Market many times in the last year but have only been to the same few places. I always want to explore more but am always so overwhelmed that I just leave. :) Thanks to Fitri I know more places to go - I honestly had no idea there was such a wide selection of so many great things there. Thanks Fitri!
Sonali Rao, USA
February / March 2016 Discovery
December 14 - Shopping at Namdaemun Market
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SIWA SPOTLIGHT
Participants Enjoy Interest Group Gatherings - Autumn 2015
MOMS and TOTS (MT) Coordinator: Mhyla Borkowski, When: Various Thursdays, Upcoming Dates: February 18, February 25, March 3. Details and RSVP available at http://siwapage.com/activities/tags/moms-and-tots/
BOOK CLUB (BC) - December 11
February / March 2016 Discovery
I attended the December book club and we discussed the book The Still Life with Rice by Helie Lee. We had a great discussion about the life in Korea before the Japanese invasion and life after the armistice. We compared the family life to how western families were structured and the roles women had. Due to war many women took on both roles of mother and father and total financial support for family members immediate and extended. The discussion also extended to roles women play in different countries in North America, Europe, and Korea since WW II. The Korean women discussed their roles now that most of their generation have attended universities outside of their country and how that has impacted family life and social structure in general.
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It was a good group of women that had a nice afternoon discussing the book and our plans for the holidays. The afternoon was a total enjoyment. I look forward to meeting again and discussing another book.
* Paulina Brennan, USA * Coordinator: Shubha Maudgal, bookclub@siwapage.com When: 2nd Friday of the month, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm Venue: in Hannamdong at a member’s home Upcoming dates and books: February 12, 2016 - The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brian March 11, 2016 - The Collected Works of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
April 8, 2016 - The Japanese Lover by Isabel Allende May 13, 2016 - A Thousand Miles to Freedom: My Escape from North Korea by EunSun Kim, Sebastien Falletti, UnJu Kim June 10, 2016 - All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr July 8, 2016 - In the Woods by Tana French August 12, 2016 - Snow by Orhan Pamuk September 9, 2016 - The Joke by Milan Kundera
The December KE conversation group lunch at ‘Books Cooks’ was a lot of fun. The KE group leader Kyunghee Park always picks out interesting locales for the once a month event. The gift exchange was great as the food at the restaurant. Not to mention practicing Korean/ English with a great group of ladies. Always looking forward to the next meeting.
* Farhath Irfan, India *
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
KOREAN ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUP (KE) - December 1
Coordinator: Park KyungHee,
conversation@siwapage.com
When: 2nd Tuesday of the month, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Venue: various locations Upcoming dates: March 8, 2016 April 12, 2016
TRANSITION GROUP (TG) - September 17 “Thanks again for a wonderful meeting today. TG is such a great opportunity for me to meet wonderful people and share experiences. Hope to see you soon!”
* Junko Horibe, Japan *
“It has been something special; the real conversations took place making me feel so much enriched and grateful. Thank you girls for being so spontaneous and generous ! Hope to see you very soon :-)”
* Jessica Cucco, Italy *
I went to share and hear stories about transition, especially about the neutral zone, the period between endings and beginnings. What magic Isabelle made happen! She is a truly gifted facilitator.
* Clara Jong, USA*
When we give voice to our individual experiences, in a safe and supportive space, we are reminded that we are part of the collective whole, and we walk away feeling newly grounded and connected.”
* Caroline *
Coordinator: Isabelle Min, transition@siwapage.com When: 3rd Tuesday of the month, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Venue: Serafina New York Restaurant, 2nd Floor Mecenatpolis, Hapjeong Tel. 02-3443-1123
* Yvonne Park, Korea * Upcoming dates: February 18, 2016 March 17, 2016 April 21, 2016
SIWA supports a variety of Interest Groups that are organized and led by members. Interest Group Coordinators are volunteers who schedule monthly meetings around a common theme, and with a variety of topics and speakers.
February / March 2016 Discovery
“The meeting was more than I expected, you had magic for opening people’s mind unexpectedly. I arrived the restaurant a little bit anxious, in tension , and with half expectation for the possibility of finding an special island which I can anchor. Fortunately, I felt like I was surrounded by my friends in Hanoi again. I am glad SIWA already built all these wonderful expat community. Thank you all who willing to open your mind, to give real conversation during the lunch. “
“We’re all in this together. We come from different countries and cultures. We carry different family stories and personal stories. We may speak a different first language, but we share a common humanity.
If you would like to create a new Interest Group, please contact interestgroups@siwapage.com
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February / March 2016 Discovery
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
SIWA SPOTLIGHT
February / March 2016 Discovery
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February / March 2016 Discovery
LIFE IN KOREA
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