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A Night to Celebrate

A Night to Celebrate

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For over 75 years, Bridgend Soroptimists have been raising awareness of local, national and international issues, as well as supporting local and international charities. With a focus on education, poverty prevention and human rights, they advocate for positive change and aim to make a difference to the lives of women and girls everywhere. Their Presentation Night in April provided an opportunity to share all that they have achieved in the last twelve months and to celebrate with some of their key supporters and beneficiaries. The first two presentations were made to people that have come along to club meetings as guest speakers. Ian Cole of Porthcawl RNLI accepted a cheque on behalf of the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) which celebrates its 200th anniversary this year. President Lesley said that living with such a beautiful coastline on our doorstep we sometimes forget how dangerous it

Soroptimists honour pledge to support BAWSO

Soroptimists honour pledge to support BAWSO

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BAWSO has been our President’s charity for 2023-2024. BAWSO is a charity that supports ethnic minorities across Wales affected by domestic violence and other forms of abuse. At the start of her year as President, Lesley welcomed Nancy Lidubwi, policy manager at BAWSO, to a club meeting to tell members about the work that the charity undertakes. With a focus on issues concerning violence against women, trafficking, FGM and modern day slavery, BAWSO aligns well with our Soroptimist aims and values and President Lesley was pleased to pledge the Club’s support. Bridgend Soroptimists were able to honour that pledge at a Presentation Night at the end of Lesley’s year in office and to present Nancy with a cheque for £1550.00. Nancy was delighted to receive our donation and confirmed that it would be a huge boost to the work that they undertake. We look forward

Soroptimists step out on the catwalk

Soroptimists step out on the catwalk

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Bridgend Soroptimists once again hosted a very successful fundraising Fashion Show at the Heronston Hotel. A range of beautiful outfits from Samantha B in Ewenny were shown at their very best by our glamorous models, all members of SI Bridgend. Together with a raffle on the night and contributions from Samantha B for sales after the event, £1500 was raised for BAWSO, our President’s charity for 2023-24. Thank you to everyone involved and all who supported this fabulous evening of fashion, fun and friendship. Particular thanks go to Samantha B for her amazing support. We are delighted that local media took such interest in this event with the story featured in the Glamorgan Star, Seaside News and other local publications.

Bridgend Soroptimists Race Across the World

Bridgend Soroptimists Race Across the World

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Bridgend Soroptimists were delighted to welcome Cathie Rowe and Tricia Sail, winners of the BBC’s 2023 Race Across the World, as guest speakers to the February meeting. Cathie and Tricia, who have been best friends since they were 15, gave a behind-the-scenes account of their adventure, highlighted the challenges they faced and explained how they overcame these to come out on top.   As one of five teams, the pair spent 51 days racing across Canada from west to east, travelling almost 10,000 miles. They had a budget of just £2,500 and were without smartphones, internet access or credit cards. As Cathie explained, “The fact that we have a wonderful, wonderful friendship and can be completely ourselves with each other without worrying what the other one thinks, really helped us during the race. We’ve always done bonkers things and saw this as another adventure! We

Soroptimists enjoy a busy Christmas

Soroptimists enjoy a busy Christmas

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Bridgend Soroptimists had a busy run up to Christmas with a festive itinerary beginning with the Christmas Tree Festival in All Saints Church in Porthcawl. This year our tree was decorated with stars that highlighted some of the projects members have been involved with in 2023, with a QR code appearing on the accompanying poster to direct those interested to further details on our Club website.Members enjoyed a Christmas Carol Service at St David’s Church in Laleston on 6 December, rounding off their celebrations with a fish and chip supper at the adjoining Blandy Hall. A total of 35 Christmas Selection Boxes were provided for children currently under the care of Llamau Women’s Refuges in Bridgend, Caerphilly and Merthyr. There were also pamper bags full of toiletries and Christmas goodies for the mothers. A further 25 Selection Boxes were delivered to SPLICE, a children’s charity

Soroptimists Light a Candle against Gender-based Violence

Soroptimists Light a Candle against Gender-based Violence

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Two members of Bridgend Soroptimists attended the packed Light a Candle event at Llandaff Cathedral organised by BAWSO to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls. It was inspiring to hear from such powerful speakers and to see so many united in seeking to make change. Helen and Judith joined Tina Fahm, CEO of BAWSO, to light a candle beginning our 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence.