ILCM reverses closure with community support

The International Ladies Club Macau (ILCM), a cornerstone of Macau’s expatriate social scene since 1984, recently announced it would close due to dwindling interest and participation, only to reverse that decision days later with plans to continue under new leadership.

The unexpected turn of events has sparked curiosity about the club’s future and the challenges it faces in maintaining relevance amid changing community dynamics.

On May 22, the ILCM posted a message on its Facebook page announcing the potential closure of the club. The post cited a “lack of interest” and an urgent need for members to step forward to fill leadership roles for the 2025–27 term.

The post stated, “If someone comes forward to take on a leadership role before the end of May, we may be able to keep the club running!” The message urged anyone interested to contact the club’s president by May 25 to prevent the shutdown.

Just two days later, on May 24, another Facebook post brought relief to members. The ILCM addressed the support and concern it received since the May 22 post.

The club stated, “God is great! We’re pleased to announce that ILCM will not be closing and will be forming a new committee for 2025–27.”

The post also invited interested members to scan the relevant WeChat QR code to participate in the new ILCM committee.

In an exclusive statement to the Times, Jolene Zhao do Amaral, president of ILCM, explained the circumstances behind the initial closure announcement and the subsequent reversal.

Zhao acknowledged that the club had faced “several pressing factors,” including a significant lack of volunteers willing to take on leadership roles for the 2025–27 term, which she described as being “vital for the club’s sustainability and operations.”

When questioned about whether the initial closure related to a decrease in the number of expatriates joining, the ILCM president highlighted that there has indeed been a decline in the number of expatriates joining the club.

This decrease, she said, has significantly impacted membership engagement and overall support for club activities.

“The sustainability of the club depends heavily on active participation from our members,” Zhao said. “Without enough people stepping up, it becomes difficult to organize events and maintain a vibrant community.”

Founded in 1984, the International Ladies Club Macau has long been dedicated to charitable work and social engagement. According to the club’s website, members volunteer their time and resources to raise awareness and funds for various causes within Macau.

Over the years, the club has organized numerous fundraising events and social gatherings, such as its annual Christmas charity bazaar.

The current leadership of the ILCM includes Jolene Zhao do Amaral as president and Elizabeth Srikishun as vice president.

As the club moves forward, it invites new members to engage actively and contribute to its future. ILCM membership costs MOP500 per year.

The ILCM also states that it “provides assistance to newcomers settling into life in Macau and opportunities to meet new people.”