In the fast paced, highly competitive, and achievement driven atmosphere of the World Bank Group, the Family Network is a haven where family members of the WBG staff can come to catch their breath and figure out how to keep up with the many challenges of relocation and life in the fast lane. The strength and the resilience (we have been doing this for the past 37 years!) of the Family Network lies in the fact that it is driven by its own members who volunteer their time to help maintain a welcoming and supportive community. This year’s new team is as dedicated as ever and features a compelling mix of veterans and newcomers. So please, do not hesitate to push that glass door on the second floor of the H building and come in and join us!

We hail from all corners of the world, and chances are you might find someone who speaks your language or has lived in your country. You might meet someone who shares your interests and make a friend for life. You might also discover new interests by joining one of our many activities and classes. In a word, you will feel at home among fellow trailing spouses and partners—valued for who you are as a human being regardless of age, gender, nationality, or professional background.

You will be able to share your war stories of culture shock and repeated relocation, you will find sympathetic ears to listen to your worries and concerns, and you will be guided and cheered on in your search for gainful employment. Last but not least, you will be able to rely on our long institutional experience to help you navigate your problem of the day.

October being the month for Domestic Violence Awareness, we hope that you will take advantage of the various programs that the Domestic Abuse Prevention office at Global Mobility has on offer. In relative terms, cases of domestic abuse among Bank families are very few, but no human being deserves to be mistreated, and one case of DA is already a case too many. As an institution that promotes the well-being of populations in the developing countries, the Bank cannot afford to look the other way.

Finally, I look forward to seeing you at the MMMF Fair at the end of the month. I cannot think of a better way to start your holiday shopping while helping promote the education of women all over the world.

Rula Ghani