As a long-time friend of Bahrain, Ms. Meghan Bondy shares insights into her experiences, community engagement, and the cultural bridges she helps build as the US Ambassador’s spouse.
Ms. Bondy, how has your experience living in Bahrain shaped your perception of the country and its culture?
Living in Bahrain has been such a special experience for me and my family. This is actually our second time calling Bahrain home – the first was 20 years ago when our two children were young, arriving from Egypt at ages six and nine. From the very beginning, we were struck by how calm and welcoming life in Bahrain felt. It truly felt like ‘a big hug’ – the people and culture immediately made us feel at ease. I had the privilege of working at the Embassy as the Community Liaison Officer, which deepened my appreciation for the Bahraini community and our American community serving at the Embassy.
Coming back again in 2022, I enjoyed rekindling old friendships. Bahrain’s island culture both historically and now offers a place for visitors and residents to rest and feel welcomed. Being from the Midwest in the United States, I often say that Bahrain is the Midwest of the Gulf – warm, friendly, community-oriented and deeply hospitable.
How do you contribute to strengthening ties between the United States and Bahrain on a community level?
I’ve always believed that building community happens best when people share experiences together, especially through music, art and food. We’ve loved hosting events that bring Americans and Bahrainis together – whether it’s a lively jazz concert like when our favourite New Orleans band, the Brass-a-Holics, visited in 2023, and celebrating local artists of all kinds.
At all these events, food has played a central role in creating that welcoming atmosphere. I’ve enjoyed crafting menus that highlight American favourites like barbecue, cornbread and apple pie, alongside local Bahraini dishes such as Hamour, Muhammar, Balaleet and Samboosa. It’s amazing how a shared table can open doors to conversations, laughter and new friendships.
Could you tell us about any charitable, cultural or educational initiatives you have supported or participated in during your time here?
One of the most meaningful experiences has been participating in the Child and Mother’s Bazaar – a joyful celebration of cultural exchange held under the auspices of Her Highness Shaikha Lulwa bint Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and organised by the Children & Mothers Welfare Society. The bazaar brings together the diplomatic corps and the wider community here in Bahrain, and the proceeds of the bazaar sales go directly to supporting hundreds of children and widows across the country. It’s been truly inspiring to see the compassion and generosity of everyone involved, with leadership from Bahraini women, and the participation of the entire diplomatic community. I am particularly grateful for the generous donations of American companies, who demonstrate civic spirits by allowing us to sell their products, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to Bahraini civil society organisations.
Have you collaborated with local organisations or other diplomatic spouses on programmes that support women, families or youth?
It’s wonderful to volunteer with the American Women’s Association (AWA), which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The AWA is a dynamic group of women from all over the world dedicated to social, cultural and charitable initiatives. Together, we support more than 30 local non-profit organisations every year, from hosting fundraising events to volunteering at homes and community centres across the island. Additionally, the AWA represents the best of Bahraini-American partnership and it serves as a platform for building friendships and cultural opportunity.
Through the AWA, I have had the opportunity to meet with and get to know so many Bahrainis. These conversations have enriched my understanding of this country, and I am very grateful for my friends at the AWA for giving me that chance.
What are some of the most meaningful interactions or experiences you’ve had with Bahraini communities?
During Ramadan, I loved hosting the Ladies Majlis. This event has been an incredible success because it puts women at the heart of the conversation. We showcased women-owned businesses for catering, offering dishes like stuffed vine leaves and traditional drinks. We also included a henna artist and a painting station, which brought a vibrant artistic energy to the evening. Ramadan itself is such a beautiful time to understand fasting, community and the spirit of giving. By sharing these moments together, we create a space for the connection between the American and Bahraini communities to grow even stronger. Hosting this event has truly been among the most meaningful activities I have done during my time in Bahrain.
As someone living in a diplomatic household, what message would you offer to American families considering a move to Bahrain?
Go for it! Bahrain is a warm and welcoming place, full of opportunities for cultural exchange and new friendships. From the vibrant island life to the deep sense of community, you’ll find Bahrain to be a wonderful home for your family – a place to make memories that will last a lifetime. And of course, the most attractive part of Bahrain is its people! Never have I encountered a more welcoming, friendly, and generous population. Thank you Bahrain!
