A transatlantic friendship blossomed in Powys recently, as Howey Women’s Institute gave a warm welcome to a delegation of professional women leaders from the US state of Illinois.

The visitors - members of the Illinois Women in Leadership (IWIL) group - were in Mid Wales as part of a cultural exchange and leadership learning tour. Their visit to Howey WI was described as one of the highlights of their trip, thanks to the warm hospitality, meaningful conversation, and shared values that quickly bridged the miles between them.

The IWIL group, made up of 20 professional women based in and around Springfield, Illinois, joined the Howey WI for a traditional monthly meeting. The evening followed the time-honoured WI format, complete with the singing of “Jerusalem,” and concluded with a feast of Welsh flavours — including leek soup, a Welsh cheese and ham board, Welsh cakes, and Bara Brith.

Far from needing ice-breakers, the two groups were soon exchanging laughter and stories. A light-hearted game of “We Say – You Say” highlighted some of the quirks of language across the Atlantic, but any differences were soon drowned out by the buzz of conversation.

The evening required no formal ice-breakers, with conversation and camaraderie flowing within minutes. Both IWIL and WI members share similar values: promoting women’s leadership, building networks, supporting one another in friendship, and working to improve their communities at local, national, and personal levels.

Afterwards, IWIL members said the evening was one of the most memorable moments of their trip to mid Wales.

“I cannot fully express my gratitude to your whole circle of friends and your community together for such a warm welcome and truly genuine experience,” said a spokesperson.

Howey WI extended thanks to all who helped host the evening and expressed their appreciation to the visiting group for such a meaningful and enjoyable cultural exchange.