We were delighted to welcome Rhona Gillmore, a fellow Soroptimist from Taunton, talking to us about ‘Beauty through health’ at our Speaker and Supper Meeting on 13th July. She shared with us her experience as a health and beauty therapist having been in the industry for almost 50 years, and almost 50 years as a Soroptimist. Her life in this industry started as far back in her early teen years after experiencing her father’s challenges trying to overcome arthritis; she then started reading about beauty therapy.  Rhona went on to train in, what was then considered a very new profession, and took the brave step to start her own business. She explained the key to having a healthy body is knowing and understanding your inner body – your gut. We all have the same skin but it is up to us how we treat it.

At our supper meeting we were treated to a very stimulating talk given by Charlotte Smith from Cynam. What or who is Cynam?  It is a cyber security and technology company based in Cheltenham.  Its customers consist of businesses, government bodies and investors. Charlotte has a passion to promote and educate women to follow a career in cyber security of which, currently, only 17% women participate.  She is determined to transform the course of action of women’s attitudes by increasing and improving the number of women in the industry. One of her ways to achieve this goal is to establish partnerships with industry by making them and girls/women participate in activities and events whilst building the girls’ confidence and making them all aware of the opportunities in cyber security. Cynam’s strategy is to attract and retain women in cybertech through mentoring and building up trust

    At our Speaker Meeting on 11th May we were delighted to welcome the renowned international pianist, Allan Schiller to talk about the women in his life.   Allan Schiller’s musical journey is intricately woven with the influential women who shaped his path. Each of these remarkable figures contributed to his development and success, reflecting the profound impact of mentorship and support.  Allan was born in Leeds into a musical family – his father was a professional violinist, clarinettist and saxophonist. His Mother: A Pillar of Influence Allan often cites his mother as the most significant influence in his life. While his father played a role, it was his mother’s unwavering support and encouragement that instilled in him a love for music and a belief in his potential from the age of 6 when he started to learn the piano. Her dedication helped lay