through friendship.
From the 2026 - 2027 President
January, 2026
Dear friends and TBI Members,
As the calendar turns to a new year and I step into the role of your TBI President, I want to extend my sincerest wishes for a Happy New Year to everyone. May 2026 bring abundant joy and excellent health to you and your loved ones.
Over the last 4 years, TBI has become a wonderful part of my life. I have genuine affection for this club. It has been a source of wonderful, inspiring new connections with an amazing community of women!. My heartfelt hope is that every single one of you, whether you’ve been here for years or are just joining us, will have that same rich experience.
The board and I are completely committed to creating an environment where those connections can thrive. However, this magical experience hinges on your involvement. I can promise you that the more you engage and participate, the stronger your love for this club and your fellow TBI members will become.
I eagerly anticipate connecting with you often throughout 2026!
Happy New Year!
Marilyn Parver
TBI President
History of Tampa Bay International (TBI) Club
Tampa Bay International (TBI) started as Welcome to Tampa Bay International (WTBI) club; an affiliate of Welcome Clubs International (WCI). WCI originated in Washington DC 25+ years ago to address and support the many spouses of US-based international officials who often returned to their respective countries after their US residency without ever having made American friends. Affiliated clubs have appeared in many cities throughout the US and abroad.
Our founder Padmini Durr was a longtime member of the Welcome to Denver International Club. After moving to the Tampa Bay area with her husband, she wanted to establish a local women’s club with an international framework and created Welcome to Tampa Bay International.
Our club has grown significantly under the leadership of several presidents. As we grew larger, we changed our focus to the Tampa Bay area and changed our name to Tampa Bay International, or TBI.
10 Year Anniversary Video
"As a founder of this club, my message and wish for the 10th anniversary of our club is very simple. I would like that our club grows with the goal of developing friendship and cooperation among women of all nations and together promoting our Tampa Bay area, our current home.
As I have lived and traveled in many countries, my best memories are those related to the direct contacts I had made with local women who had opened their homes and hearts to us. International Women’s club in Geneva and Chicago, “Cross-Roads” in Chicago, “Sister Cities International” and Genevieve Fiore’s “UNESCO Chapter” in Denver, were all International friendship clubs that had inspired me. I found that beyond traditions, religions and customs, we all are sisters and should look out for each other."