And now the end is near and we’ve reached the final curtain, I stood tall and did it my way.
Immediate Past President Ann you certainly did stand tall and should be proud of what you have achieved. Listening to the comments of delegates this year’s conference was a great success from inspirational women, young voices, effective policies and procedures, wonderful initiatives supporting the most vulnerable in our world we were immersed in what it means to be a Soroptimist. The exhibition offered information and items to be bought – and I managed to spend loads but then I always do.
The Wales Millennium Centre, lit up in Soroptimist colours, was jam packed with Soroptimists and friends done up to the nines, there was so much glitter that I nearly had to put on my sun glasses! Carwen and Iris led us through with great aplomb – they were almost as good as Morecambe and Wise! President Ann gave us a short, succinct speech saying how much she had enjoyed her year and thanking those who had helped to make it a great success. Our new president Sue received her chain of office, the new management board was introduced and new regional presidents received their chains of office, we said goodbye to others with some staying put – they must have really enjoyed the role and are not willing to give it up. New President Sue welcomed President Elect Sue (better not get them mixed up!) and set out her hopes for her year as our President.
Our flag is on the way to Liverpool and the evening ended with the Phil Dando Big Band. They were fantastic and my only regret is that there was no room to dance because that’s what the music wants you to do. The final number was a medley of Welsh songs a fitting end to a conference in Wales (read their Biography).
Rayner Rees – Assistant Programme Director Economic Empowerment
- Read Ann Hodgson’s Outgoing President’s Address
- Read Susan Biggs’ (SIGBI President 2017-2018) Inaugural Address
Federation Management Board 2017-2018
Following the Change of Insignia ceremony, the Federation Management Board 2017-2018 is listed below:
| President | Sue Biggs |
| President Elect | Sue Williams |
| Vice President | Isobel Smith |
| Immediate Past President | Ann Hodgson |
| Director of Communications | Gail Teague |
| Director of Membership | Judith Grocott |
| Director of Organisational Development | Isobel Smith |
| Director of Programme | Barbara Dixon |
| Directors Without Portfolio | Diane Hill |
| Johanna Raffan | |
| Cathy Cottridge |