Soroptimist International Esperance is thrilled that the school community at Woodland Hindu Primary is joining the fight to #BeatPlasticPollution! Students collected an astounding 300kg of plastic bottles, which were taken away by Every Bottle Back TT for recycling and upcycling.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kids In Need of Direction (KIND) for their generous donation of sanitary napkins to Soroptimist International Esperance. This meaningful contribution directly supports our Period Positivity Project, helping us provide essential menstrual products to girls and women in need and ensuring that no one has to miss school, or opportunities because of period poverty.
Esperance Soroptimists are thrilled that two of the three photographs selected by Soroptimist International Global show aspects of their Period Positivity Project. In addition to educating girls about menstruation, members collect sanitary products and distribute them to girls, ensuring that period poverty does not make them miss school.
Soroptimist International also featured our club in its world wide overview.
“SI Esperance (SIGBI) has spent several years addressing period poverty as a barrier to education in Trinidad and Tobago through its Period Positivity project. The initiative began after the club identified that girls from low-income households were missing school during menstruation due to the cost and limited access to sanitary products, alongside stigma and lack of accurate information.
Working with primary and secondary schools in rural south Trinidad, the club provides regular supplies of menstrual products and delivers age-appropriate education on menstrual health and hygiene. These sessions help girls understand their bodies, challenge myths, and feel more confident attending school during their periods. Each participating school now maintains a designated space stocked with supplies.
The project has reached hundreds of students and contributed to improved school attendance among girls previously affected by period poverty. Through steady, community-led action, SI Esperance continues to support girls’ education with dignity and care.”
On International Day of Education, we celebrate this onging project which was nominated for a Best Practice Award at the SIGBI Federation Conference in Birmingham.
Students at Ramai Trace Hindu Primary School accepted the challenge to #BeatPlasticPollution. Over the Christmas holidays they collected an astounding amount of plastic bottles, over 300kg! Prizes were given to the top 6 collectors and the school will continue to deposit bottles in the bins provided by our partner, Every Bottle Back TT.
Soroptimist International Esperance congratulates the entire school community on this amazing response to protect our environment! We look forward to continuing this important initiative.
International Day of Peace Competition! SI Esperance is proud to announce the completion of our”International Day of Peace” project! From planting peace trees to witnessing inspiring school-led initiatives like the Peace Wall, these students have shown us that the future of advocacy is bright. Congratulations to all our winners for using your creativity to champion a more peaceful world!
January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Please help us to make everyone aware that detection needs the imput of members of the public. “If you see something, say something!” Make a confidential call to 880 4CTU.
Interview on Heartbeat Radio about ‘Walk for Her” by interviewer Tequala Craig (L) with Esperance Soroptimists Charmaine Lutchmansingh (centre) and Farah Abdool (R).
Soroptimist International Esperance distributed care hampers to survivors of domestic abuse through The Colour ME Orange TT Campaign. The hampers were handed over at the compound of Serenity Rehab and Domestic Violence Shelter, ensuring dignity, privacy, and safety for those receiving support. We remain committed to standing with survivors and supporting initiatives that promote healing, hope, and empowerment. Together, we continue to say there is no excuse for violence.
This Christmas season, Soroptimist International Esperance shared toys, hampers and educational materials at the Life Skills Centre for the Autistic in Point Fortin We believe every child and adult deserves opportunities to learn, grow, and experience joy, especially at Christmas. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this small act of kindness possible.
Wicked~ For Good Movie Fundraiser
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance discussed upcycling and recycling. The school was presented with bins for plastic bottle collection, all part of The Beat Plastic Pollution Campaign.
“We at Ramai Trace Hindu School extend our appreciation to Soroptimist International Esperance for delivering four hampers today. These will be given to deserving families within the school. Simple gestures ensure that we have happy families during the yuletide season.”
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance were saddened at the loss of 99-year-old Honorary Member Ursula de Castro who was an active in the club up to the end of her life.
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance are totally thrilled to have been chosen for a Best Practice Award for the second year running! The Delegates’ Choice Award is bestowed upon the best overall project in their estimation.
Soroptimist International Esperance is proud to have been nominated for two Best Practice Awards in a single year, which is unprecedented! The Think Before You Click and Lighting the Path to Literacy projects were both presented by Shanti Mahabir, Esperance member. Think Before You won the Delegates Choice Award!
“Think Before You Click” was the Delegate Choice Winner!
Every year, Soroptimists join the UN’s global 16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls, held from 25 November to 10 December. This year, Soroptimist clubs around the world are focusing on preventing online violence and creating safer digital spaces for women and girls. The campaign highlights how online abuse happens and promotes practical tools to help users stay safe.
Soroptimist UK & Ireland President Gillie O’Rourke said “Across our Federation, Soroptimists will be raising awareness in their communities through events, activities and partnerships, all under the signature colour of orange, symbolising a brighter future free from violence and abuse. This is what Soroptimists do best: highlighting the actions needed to build a safer world for women and girls.”
Soroptimists in our club SI Esperance in Trinidad and Tobago are already leading the way. Last month, they won a Best Practice Award for “Think Before You Click” (Taken from the SIGBI Website)
“Lighting the Path to Literacy” was a nominee for a Best Practice Award at the SIGBI Federation Conference.
Two photographs of Esperance Soroptimists were a part of the collage at the SIGBI Conference to illustrate Soroptimist friendship.
Soroptimist International Esperance had additional projects highlighted in the Caribbean workshop at the SIGBI Conference in Birmingham.
SI Esperance partnered with other organisations to produce an impactful free Legal Aid Clinic.
Soroptimist International Esperance is pleased to have received a generous donation of sanitary pads from Digicel Trinidad & Tobago, collected by their staff at the Head Office in Maraval for the second consecutive year.
MAY IS SOROPTIMIST MEMBERSHIP MONTH ~ Dr. Ananda Maharaj was our 5th member to be inducted this year.
MAY IS SOROPTIMIST MEMBERSHIP MONTH ~ Soroptimist International Esperance celebrates its new members! ( L to R) SITT President Dennise Demming, newly inducted members Zobida Jane Apping, Samatha Felix, Membership Officer Charmaine Lutchmansingh, new inductees Candice Chiti, Toanya Rahim and President Rowena Wattley.
Celebrating 40 years of dedicated service! ~ Marilyn de Castro-Lalla was honoured at Soroptimist International Esperance’s recently concluded AGM for her four decades of commitment to Soroptimism.
Executive Committee 2025 ~ Front row from left: Charmaine Lutchmansingh, Programme Action Officer; Candyce Labban, President Elect; Rowena Wattley, President; Irmin McKenzie, Secretary; Marilyn Lalla, Communications Officer.
Back row from left: Denyse Ewe, Immediate Past President; Keisha Baig-Ramsamooj, Treasurer; Cheryl Boodoosingh, Organisation, Development & Membership Officer; Rabbia Khan, Advocacy Officer; Trisha Dassrath, Vice President; Farah Abdool and Tara Pollonais, Floor Members.
HPV Heroes at Vaccination Week in the Americas! Soroptimist International Trinidad and Tobago was proud to support Vaccine Week in the Americas 2025 with an awareness booth at C3 Mall, focusing on the importance of the HPV vaccine.
The Freebird Restaurant in Pointe a Pierre was the venue for a wonderful evening of fellowship and fun. Members of Soroptimist International Esperance were delighted to have SIGBI Federation President Ruth Healey, Federation Programme Director Lindsey Greene and SITT President Dennise Demming as guests.
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance joined in the Autism Awareness walk in Point Fortin. The club continues its support of the Life Skills Centre.
Soroptimist International Trinidad and Tobago was proud to support Vaccine Week in the Americas 2025 with an awareness booth at C3 Mall, focusing on the importance of the HPV vaccine in protecting our girls and women.
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance educated patrons at JTA Supermarkets about the dire need for sanitary products among disadvantaged students to attend school. The shoppers gave generously to the Esperance Period Positivity Project, which supplies selected schools.
Trinidad Soroptimists were delighted to have the opportunity to meet with the President of the SIGBI Federation Ruth Healey and Programme Director Lindsey Greene shown here with a group of Esperance Soroptimists. (L-R Candyce Labban, Marilyn Lalla, Lindsey Greene, Ruth Healey, Trisha Kimberley Dassrath and Rowena Wattley)
Daren Dhoray of Cybersafett, as part of the Soroptimist International Esperance ‘Be A Buddy, Not A Bully’ Campaign, has empowered students to stand up against bullying in several schools.
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance are proud that our member Denyse Ewe, as SICN Extension Officer, was able to complete the work started by our President Rowena Wattley in seeing the charter of Soroptimist International Sent Lisi (St Lucia) to fruition. SIGBI President Ruth Healey observed the signing of the charter. Congratulations to all of the new Soroptimists!
Soroptimist International Esperance hosted Ryan Bachoo’s first book reading as a part of its literacy programme, pictured here with SITT’s President Dennise Demming.
Members and Prospective Members of SI Esperance celebrated International Women’s Day at the InterClub’s tea at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Soroptimist International Esperance has continued its Period Positivity Project in Barrackpore ASJA Girls’ College with an educational presentation on Coping with Your Period. The club continues to supply selected girls with period products to avoid the necessity for school absence during that time of the month.
Members and prospective members of Soroptimist International Esperance gathered for a ‘Sisterhood Sunday’ Development Day. It was inspirational and motivational!#HumanRightsDay marks the official end of #16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence, but we cannot stop now! Soroptimist International Esperance will continue to “educate, enable and empower ” women to carve out a better lives for themselves.
Novels and textbooks were delivered to several schools.Soroptimist International Esperance is proud of the recognition of its member Ursula de Castro by the City of San Fernando, presented by Councillor Marcus Girdharie. At 96, she is still an active member of the club. The award was given “for your dedication and selfless service to the community that promotes the protection of human rights for all and the rejection of violence against our women.”The Project Positivity Project continued with a two part seminar run by Soroptimist Fadia Kumar at Barrackpore ASJA Girls’ College. It educated the girls on matters concerning menstruation, to enable them to develop a better understanding of the topic.Last week Friday we visited the Autism Centre in Point Fortin and donated a much needed 50 inch television as an aid to learning.Over 2000 books collected, cleaned and sorted. Ready for delivery later this week!WE DID IT! We had our mammograms. HAVE YOU DONE IT YET?
The SIGBI Federation has selected many photographs from SI Esperance projects to advertise the work of Soroptimists.‘The four generations of women in this family illustrate the possible age range of Soroptimists. We all stand up for women in our communities. Check our website for the types of membership available to you. Join us!’
Another of the Esperance photographs which was selected by SIGBI to encourage membership.
President-elect of Esperance Gemma Casimir-Redman in the grounds of the Soroptimist Senior Citizens’ Village with Ramona Smart , Soroptimist International Barbados and current Chair for the Village .Esperance Soroptimists’ Rancho Quemado Estate experience with Nisha Ghosh of SI Pune Metro East in India, who is head of PR and Marketing for our Federation (SIGBI). It was a wonderful day of international friendship!July 30th is World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. Your anonymous report make a huge difference in a person’s life. Make that effort!#SoroptimistDayofAction on July 16th was eventful! Members expanded the #LeaveNoTrashBehind project in Palmiste Park with additional signage and a mini cleanup. #TrashToTreasure for schools was launched, and the single use plastics collected were weighed for the new collaboration with the all-female Kernaham/Cascadoux Plastics Upcycling & Learning Centre.The Esperance Soroptimist team at its Powershots Golf Tournament at Pointe a Pierre Club.
The Soroptimist International Esperance Executive team for 2022-2023 looks forward to serving the community. (Back row L-R) Cheryl Boodoosingh (Immediate Past President), Charmaine Lutchmansingh, Shallini Gopeesingh, Debra London (Treasurer), Rowena Wattley (O&D Officer), Candyce Labban. Front row L-R) Arianne Dhanukdharrisingh (Fundraising Chair), Rabbia Khan (Vice President), Denyse Ewe (President), Gemma Casimir-Redman (President Elect), Arnella Laloo (Correspondence Secretary), Marilyn Lalla (Communications Officer). (Not present) Tara Pollonais (Programme Action Officer), Jayanti Lutchmedial (Membership Officer), Trisha Dassrath (Minuting Secretary).
Esperance Soroptimists Patricia Campbell, Rabbia Khan and Marilyn Lalla with requested supplies to be donated to The Life Skills Centre, the southern branch of The Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago, to mark Autism Awareness Month.
Congratulations to Rabbia Khan, Vice President of Soroptimist International Esperance and President of The InterClub of Trinidad and Tobago 🇹🇹 . She received her ministerial letter of appointment for the National Task Force Against Trafficking in Persons Working Group from Minister of National Security, the Honorable Fitzgerald Hinds.One of the newest members of Soroptimist International Esperance, Amy Balchan, was one of the painting crew. The club is in the process of painting benches orange to affix slogans to them.
#CovidComfort ~ Hampers of Hope. SI Esperance received enough donations from the public to ultimately purchase and distribute over 600 hampers to needy rural families.Executive 2021 ~ 2022We welcome our new members.
16 Days of Activism ~ Not Enough!#CovidComfort ~ Growing Food for Hope
A bird’s eye view for the work of Soroptimist International Esperance during the first two years of its existence. The members sincerely thank the many supporters of the club who assisted in any way to facilitate their efforts to educate, enable and empower women and girls.
Soroptimist International Esperance held a Virtual Friendship Day in which Soroptimists of T&T displayed their achievements and talents. SI Esperance submitted this silent movie which celebrates the Roaring 20s, the period in which Soroptimism began. The first Soroptimist President was Violet Richardson of Oakland, California on October 3rd, 1921.
Soroptimist International Esperance made history by having the annual Soroptimist Friendship Day virtually. It was a memorable occasion where the clubs were able to showcase their work and their talent. Because it was virtual, it was even possible to have guests from other Caribbean islands. It was good to see one another for the first time in a very long time.
#CovidComfort ~ Hampers for Hope & Growing Food for Hope items were gifted to Lady Hochoy Home.
Virtual AGM 2020
Covid Comfort – Compassion into Action
InterClub President Rabbia Khan presents the InterClub’s IWD 2020 Award for Dedicated Volunteerism to Ursula de Castro
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kids In Need of Direction (KIND) for their generous donation of sanitary napkins to Soroptimist International Esperance. This meaningful contribution directly supports our Period Positivity Project, helping us provide essential menstrual products to girls and women in need and ensuring that no one has to miss school, or opportunities because of period poverty.
Esperance Soroptimists are thrilled that two of the three photographs selected by Soroptimist International Global show aspects of their Period Positivity Project. In addition to educating girls about menstruation, members collect sanitary products and distribute them to girls, ensuring that period poverty does not make them miss school.
On International Day of Education, we celebrate this onging project which was nominated for a Best Practice Award at the SIGBI Federation Conference in Birmingham.
Students at Ramai Trace Hindu Primary School accepted the challenge to 
International Day of Peace Competition! 
January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Please help us to make everyone aware that detection needs the imput of members of the public. “If you see something, say something!” Make a confidential call to 880 4CTU.
Interview on Heartbeat Radio about ‘Walk for Her” by interviewer Tequala Craig (L) with Esperance Soroptimists Charmaine Lutchmansingh (centre) and Farah Abdool (R).
Soroptimist International Esperance distributed care hampers to survivors of domestic abuse through The Colour ME Orange TT Campaign. The hampers were handed over at the compound of Serenity Rehab and Domestic Violence Shelter, ensuring dignity, privacy, and safety for those receiving support. We remain committed to standing with survivors and supporting initiatives that promote healing, hope, and empowerment. 
Together, we continue to say there is no excuse for violence.
This Christmas season, Soroptimist International Esperance shared toys, hampers and educational materials at the Life Skills Centre for the Autistic in Point Fortin 
Wicked~ For Good Movie Fundraiser
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance discussed upcycling and recycling. The school was presented with bins for plastic bottle collection, all part of The Beat Plastic Pollution Campaign.
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance are totally thrilled to have been chosen for a Best Practice Award for the second year running! The Delegates’ Choice Award is bestowed upon the best overall project in their estimation.
Soroptimist International Esperance is proud to have been nominated for two Best Practice Awards in a single year, which is unprecedented! The Think Before You Click and Lighting the Path to Literacy projects were both presented by Shanti Mahabir, Esperance member. Think Before You won the Delegates Choice Award!
Every year, Soroptimists join the UN’s global 16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls, held from 25 November to 10 December. This year, Soroptimist clubs around the world are focusing on preventing online violence and creating safer digital spaces for women and girls. The campaign highlights how online abuse happens and promotes practical tools to help users stay safe.
Two photographs of Esperance Soroptimists were a part of the collage at the SIGBI Conference to illustrate Soroptimist friendship.
Soroptimist International Esperance had additional projects highlighted in the Caribbean workshop at the SIGBI Conference in Birmingham.
SI Esperance partnered with other organisations to produce an impactful free Legal Aid Clinic.
Soroptimist International Esperance is pleased to have received a generous donation of sanitary pads from Digicel Trinidad & Tobago, collected by their staff at the Head Office in Maraval for the second consecutive year.
MAY IS SOROPTIMIST MEMBERSHIP MONTH ~ Dr. Ananda Maharaj was our 5th member to be inducted this year.
MAY IS SOROPTIMIST MEMBERSHIP MONTH ~ Soroptimist International Esperance celebrates its new members! ( L to R) SITT President Dennise Demming, newly inducted members Zobida Jane Apping, Samatha Felix, Membership Officer Charmaine Lutchmansingh, new inductees Candice Chiti, Toanya Rahim and President Rowena Wattley.
Celebrating 40 years of dedicated service! ~ Marilyn de Castro-Lalla was honoured at Soroptimist International Esperance’s recently concluded AGM for her four decades of commitment to Soroptimism.
Executive Committee 2025 ~ Front row from left: Charmaine Lutchmansingh, Programme Action Officer; Candyce Labban, President Elect; Rowena Wattley, President; Irmin McKenzie, Secretary; Marilyn Lalla, Communications Officer.
HPV Heroes at Vaccination Week in the Americas! Soroptimist International Trinidad and Tobago was proud to support Vaccine Week in the Americas 2025 with an awareness booth at C3 Mall, focusing on the importance of the HPV vaccine.
The Freebird Restaurant in Pointe a Pierre was the venue for a wonderful evening of fellowship and fun. Members of Soroptimist International Esperance were delighted to have SIGBI Federation President Ruth Healey, Federation Programme Director Lindsey Greene and SITT President Dennise Demming as guests.
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance joined in the Autism Awareness walk in Point Fortin. The club continues its support of the Life Skills Centre.
Soroptimist International Trinidad and Tobago was proud to support Vaccine Week in the Americas 2025 with an awareness booth at C3 Mall, focusing on the importance of the HPV vaccine in protecting our girls and women.
Daren Dhoray of Cybersafett, as part of the Soroptimist International Esperance ‘Be A Buddy, Not A Bully’ Campaign, has empowered students to stand up against bullying in several schools.
Members of Soroptimist International Esperance are proud that our member Denyse Ewe, as SICN Extension Officer, was able to complete the work started by our President Rowena Wattley in seeing the charter of Soroptimist International Sent Lisi (St Lucia) to fruition. SIGBI President Ruth Healey observed the signing of the charter. Congratulations to all of the new Soroptimists!
Soroptimist International Esperance hosted Ryan Bachoo’s first book reading as a part of its literacy programme, pictured here with SITT’s President Dennise Demming.
Members and Prospective Members of SI Esperance celebrated International Women’s Day at the InterClub’s tea at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
