SI Bournemouth was invited to have a stand and to present at the ‘Harmony in the Community 2’ conference at Bournemouth University on June 6, 2023. This initiative was launched by Michael Dooley, previous High Sheriff of Dorset, and Nigel Hedges, ex- Chairman of BCP Council, in 2022 to bring together organisations across the county to share their good work and outcomes. The participants were welcomed to the conference by four Ukrainians in their national dress, singing beautiful ‘a capella’ songs in their native language. It was the start to an inspiring day where two members of our club were able to network, learn more about local projects, share our endeavours and generate interest in Soroptimism. We were lucky to have Terry Waite, humanitarian and hostage negotiator, share his story of being held captive for almost five years in the Lebanon. There were certainly lessons to learn from him about how best to achieve harmony; it was a thoughtful and humbling presentation.
Early results from the day about potential recruitment look positive!
If you are interested in this or other similar projects and would like to come along to a Soroptimist International Bournemouth meeting to find out more, please email us at sigbibournemouth@hotmail.co.uk.