SWEA’s Founder Agneta Nilsson Turns 85 – Celebrated Worldwide by Thousands of Swedish Women
On March 5, 2025, the Swedish Women's Educational Association (SWEA) celebrates its founder, Agneta Nilsson, on her 85th birthday. In 2024, the organization marked its 45th anniversary, and now members around the world congratulate the woman whose vision has united Swedish and Swedish-speaking women across the globe.
46 years ago, in Los Angeles, Agneta Nilsson recognized the need for a platform where Swedish women could come together to promote Swedish culture, Swedish traditions, and the Swedish language. At the time, it was primarily Swedish women who had, for various reasons, left Sweden, and in 1979, being Swedish abroad was not always easy.
This initiative led to the creation of SWEA, a nonprofit organization that has since grown to approximately 6,000 members in over 70 chapters across 30 countries. Over the years, Agneta has remained a driving and inspirational force within SWEA.
Agneta Nilsson’s dedication and leadership have not only strengthened the bonds among Swedish and Swedish-speaking women worldwide but have also earned her several prestigious awards:
1982 Received her first H.M. The King's Medal
1989 Awarded the Sven Eliason Award by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Los Angeles
1995 Named International Swede of the Year by SVIV, the Swedish organization Swedes Worldwide
1997 Awarded her second H.M. The King's Medal, presented by Princess Christina, Mrs. Magnuson
2005 Received "The Great Swedish Heritage Award" from the Swedish Council of America
2006 Named Swedish American of the Year by Vasa Order of America, Växjö Division
2009 Named " Honorary Swedish Woman of the Year" by SWEA International
2009 Received the Hans Mattson Plaque during the annual Sweden America Day celebration in Önnestad, Skåne
2010 Awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, one of the United States' most prestigious civilian honors
On this special day, we express our deep gratitude for Agneta’s vision and dedication. Her work has created a lasting community that continues to support and inspire Swedish and Swedish-speaking women worldwide.
Warmest congratulations to Agneta Nilsson on her 85th birthday on March 5!
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Background Information
SWEA International is a global network for Swedish and Swedish-speaking women who live – or have lived – abroad. With approximately 6,000 members in around 70 chapters worldwide, SWEA is the largest nonprofit organization promoting Sweden outside of Sweden. Every year, SWEA awards scholarships and donations totaling more than 2 million SEK.
Media Contact
Marita Holmkvist Lendenfelt
media@swea.org
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