Building Bridges: The Power of Connection for Women Abroad

Moving to a new country can be exciting—but it can also be isolating in ways you don’t expect.

Your routines change. Your support system shifts. And the casual connections you once relied on suddenly disappear. That’s why I was so drawn to this conversation with Ali Meehan, founder of Costa Women, on This Might Get Creative – A Behind the Brand Podcast.

Ali’s story is a reminder that meaningful connection doesn’t just happen—you often have to build it yourself.

The birth of Costa Women

Ali moved to Spain in 2010 and quickly realized how difficult it was to find community as a woman living abroad. Without the built-in networks many of us take for granted, she decided to create what she was missing.

Costa Women started simply—as a way to meet friends.

Over time, it evolved into something much bigger: a thriving international community of women from 137 nationalities, connecting across Spain and beyond through in-person events, online gatherings, and shared experiences.

How community grows with intention

One thing that stood out to me during our conversation was how intentionally Costa Women has grown. While it began on the Costa del Sol, it didn’t stay local for long. As more women joined from Barcelona, Madrid, and other regions, the community expanded naturally.

Ali shared how listening to what members needed—and being open to evolution—was key. Costa Women wasn’t built with a rigid plan. It was built by paying attention, showing up, and responding to real people.

Networking as a lifestyle, not a transaction

Ali has a refreshing perspective on networking. She doesn’t see it as something you turn on when you need something.

She sees it as a lifestyle.

Drawing from her time living in Hong Kong, Ali shared how exchanging business cards with both hands symbolized offering yourself fully—not just your services. That mindset carries through Costa Women. The focus isn’t on pitching. It’s on relationships.

When networking is rooted in generosity and curiosity, collaboration follows naturally.

Collaboration over competition

Another theme we explored was the power of women supporting women. Ali believes that collaboration—not competition—is what allows communities and businesses to grow.

Especially for women building businesses abroad, having a trusted network can make all the difference. Shared experiences, mentorship, and honest conversations help women feel less alone and more confident navigating unfamiliar systems.

Why connection still matters

Even in a digital-first world, this episode is a reminder that human connection still matters deeply—especially when you’re starting over in a new place.

Costa Women isn’t just a network. It’s proof that community can change how people experience work, life, and belonging.

🎧 Listen to the full episode:
Building Bridges: The Power of Connection for Women Abroad
on This Might Get Creative – A Behind the Brand Podcast