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I am Woman … Hear me Roar

Mindful of Helen Reddy’s words, Crosby’s Soroptimists were at the heart of the recent regional conference ‘Rise Up and Roar’.

Sandy Taylor and Pat Williams were part of the conference team for SI South Lancashire’s biennial event. For many months they helped plan everything including speakers, venue and hospitality. Crucially, women-centred themes were at the heart of the Conference Programme 2024. Health and wellness, education, gender equality and human rights – all came under scrutiny on the day.

Pat shared the registration desk with Debra Curtis, of SI Liverpool.  Hard work – but time for relaxation before the pre-conference dinner.

Sandy was the conference chair. Keeping everything to time – even wrestling with IT – needed tact, patience and humour. Thanks to her skill and experience, the day progressed successfully.

SI Crosby’s own Steph Stephenson (HR Director, Jaguar Land Rover) gave a lively session on addressing the needs and challenges of women in a major manufacturing organisation. This echoed the excellent talk that Steph had given recently to her fellow Soroptimists.

Crosby’s President Sharon Ryan led a large delegation of Crosby Soroptimists. “We heard engaging, informative and thought-provoking speakers,” she said. “Such variety meant the conference was packed with interest.”

“We also enjoyed catching up with friends in other clubs, exchanging news and sharing ideas. It really was a good day.”