Australia–Canada News

Celebrating ACWW’s 31st World Conference in Ottawa

Ottawa Tourism and the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) concluded a successful 31st Triennial World Conference in Canada's capital, celebrating an eight-year partnership. The event included governance sessions, cultural programs, and strengthened community ties. Organizers emphasized the value of long-term collaboration in creating a personalized and impactful experience for attendees.

Newsdesk R. Michael May 12, 2026 3 min read

Ottawa Tourism and Associated Country Women of the World are celebrating the successful conclusion of the 31st Triennial World Conference after an eight-year partnership that brought delegates from around the world to Canada’s capital.

The conference, hosted at The Westin Ottawa, welcomed members of the Associated Country Women of the World, also known as ACWW, for a week focused on governance meetings, elections, advocacy discussions, cultural exchanges, and community engagement.

Officials from both organizations said the event highlighted the value of long-term collaboration between tourism partners and international associations.

Exterior view of a modern building with a domed roof, surrounded by colorful flower beds and a clear blue sky.

Eight-Year Partnership Led to Major Event

The relationship between Ottawa Tourism and ACWW began in 2018 during a networking event where representatives from both organizations first connected.

What started as a conversation about shared values gradually evolved into a long-term partnership centered on community-focused events and international collaboration.

Over the following years, Ottawa Tourism and ACWW continued working together through smaller meetings and planning sessions leading up to the 2026 conference.

Because of that ongoing relationship, organizers said the final event felt more connected and personalized for attendees.

“This has been far more than a conference win for Ottawa,” said Michael Crockatt.

Exterior view of a modern glass building with geometric shapes, surrounded by visitors and bright blue skies.

Conference Highlighted Ottawa’s Culture and Community

During the week-long event, delegates participated in governance sessions and networking opportunities while also experiencing local attractions and cultural programs across Ottawa.

The conference included tours of the surrounding region, agricultural visits, and a gala dinner hosted at the Canadian Museum of History.

Organizers said those activities helped connect international guests with the culture and communities of Canada’s capital region.

In addition, Ottawa Tourism worked closely with local businesses and event partners throughout the planning process.

Night view of a modern building with distinctive architecture, featuring illuminated stone columns and large glass windows, alongside a calm reflecting pool where a small boat is docked.

ACWW Focuses on Rural Women Worldwide

Founded in 1929, ACWW supports rural women and community organizations across the globe.

The organization focuses on advocacy, education, grassroots development, and policy discussions related to rural communities and women’s empowerment.

Because ACWW operates internationally, the Triennial World Conference serves as one of the organization’s most important gatherings.

Delegates attending the conference represented communities from multiple countries and regions worldwide.

Panoramic view of the Parliament Hill buildings and the Fairmont Château Laurier in Ottawa, Canada, showcasing the river and lush greenery under a blue sky.

Organizers Emphasize Long-Term Collaboration

ACWW officials said the partnership with Ottawa Tourism stood out because of its consistency over several years.

“When I first met the Ottawa team in 2018, none of us could have known exactly what the next eight years would bring,” said Nick Newland.

He added that the continued communication and smaller events leading up to the conference helped build trust and momentum before the larger gathering finally arrived.

Because of those efforts, organizers said the event reflected the values and goals of the organization rather than functioning as a standard conference experience.

Ottawa Continues Expanding Conference Industry

Ottawa Tourism continues positioning Canada’s capital as a destination for international conferences and association events.

Tourism officials said the ACWW conference demonstrated how long-term partnerships can create stronger outcomes for both organizers and host cities.

Industry analysts note that destinations increasingly focus on legacy-driven events that emphasize community engagement and cultural impact instead of only economic activity.

Because of that shift, tourism organizations often work with associations for years before major conferences officially take place.

Conference Tourism Remains Important Economic Driver

Large international meetings continue generating economic activity for hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and local attractions.

Officials said conferences also help strengthen international relationships while increasing visibility for host destinations.

Ottawa Tourism currently works with more than 450 member businesses throughout the region.

The organization promotes Ottawa as a destination for both leisure travel and business events.

Leaders Reflect on Event Success

Both organizations described the conference as a meaningful milestone after years of planning and collaboration.

Crockatt said the event demonstrated Ottawa’s ability to connect visitors with local expertise, culture, and community partnerships.

For ACWW members, the gathering also provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships while continuing conversations around advocacy and rural empowerment.

As the conference concluded, organizers said the partnership between Ottawa Tourism and ACWW helped create an event shaped by shared purpose rather than simple logistics.