The first IWC was pioneered by the International Association for Human Values, to highlight the achievements of women in bringing about positive social change with a focus on values and ethics. 600 women leaders from 40 countries around the world, 500 rural women from various Indian states, 100 elected Panchayat (local governing bodies) leaders and more than 1000 school girls came together at The Art of Living International Center in Bangalore to participate in this conference and reflect on the idea of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One World Family.”

The theme of the Conference was based on “Shakti” or “strength.” Shakti, often represented in Indian culture as the trinity: “Durga” or the “Goddess of Valour”; “Lakshmi” or the “Goddess of Wealth and Well –Being”; and “Saraswati” or “Goddess of Knowledge and Art.”

The tone was set for the Conference’s unique feature of focusing on action-oriented solutions by the gifting of keys to some of the recipients of the 100 homes that were built in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka for disadvantaged women.