Today the Spotlight falls on inveterate traveler, Susan Cordery who co-founded the INC in 1988. Currently based in Portugal, Susan´s unflagging energy and inspiration has steered the Club to being the vibrant go-to hub for unique cultural events and meaningful international relationships that it is 38 years later.

Which places have made the biggest impact on you and why?
Mexico City was our first move abroad, and it’s where my first child was born. I fell in love with the indigenous cultures, the art, the architecture—I even took a course at the Museum of Anthropology, which I found fascinating. It was also where I first encountered the International Newcomers Club, an experience that stayed with me.

Madrid, of course, holds a different kind of significance. It gave me the opportunity to create a club that has helped so many people over the years. That has been both amazing and deeply gratifying.

Parrot talk in Mexico

Take us back 38 years—how did the idea begin?
The idea began to take shape in the Eurobuilding II Aparthotel, where we were living temporarily after arriving in Madrid in autumn 1987. I was 37, with three children and a dog.

I met Phyllis Davis at the school bus stop. She had just arrived from Venezuela, where they had a club similar to one I’d known in Mexico City. We assumed Madrid would have one too—but it didn’t.

We had endless questions about daily life and no resources to guide us. This was long before the internet or mobile phones. The clubs we’d belonged to elsewhere had provided both information and friendship, so starting one ourselves felt like a natural step.

Phyllis Davis centre

Did you imagine it would still exist today?
Not at all. I find it quite amazing that it’s still going strong.

What were the earliest meetings like?
They began as coffee mornings in private homes. The first, at my house, brought about 25 women—mostly American School mothers. By the second, that number had doubled and become more international.

We quickly outgrew living rooms and moved to a church hall, then a retirement centre, and eventually hotels. Meetings combined a social hour—with coffee we made ourselves and homemade cookies—with presentations on Spanish culture, food, wine, fashion, and more. I particularly remember Paradores de España and Loewe taking part. 

We welcomed fascinating guests: flamenco dancers, art historians, winemakers, even a bullfighter. Attendance at the meetings grew to 80–120 women and the membership oscillated around the 300+ mark. The buzz of conversation was unforgettable.

Friends from the start of INC to the present day

What challenges would surprise members today?
Communication! We produced a printed monthly newsletter and mailed it to every member. That meant regular gatherings just to stuff and stamp envelopes.

Why do women-led spaces still matter?
They foster collaboration and mutual support. Women naturally share experiences and encourage open communication—it’s something we recognize and seek wherever we go.

Susan's grand-daughter enjoys a festive INC coffee

What are you most proud of?
That the club still fulfils its original purpose: helping members enjoy a rich cross-cultural experience while building friendships and growing personally. The dedication of volunteers and the openness of members continue to make that possible.

Why do in-person communities still matter?
I can’t imagine a world without personal connection—a smile, a handshake, a hug. Those things are irreplaceable.

How has the club shaped your life in Madrid?
It made it my home.

Still travelling, this time in Sicily!

What talent do you wish you had?
I would have loved to be a writer—or an architect.

What would you love a member in 2045 to say?
“Thank goodness for this club!”