I extend my invitation to you all to the NewcastleGateshead 79th SIGBI Federation Conference at The Sage.
Our theme ‘From Vision to Action – Soroptimists Educating to Lead’ offers a realistic challenge to every member to become actively involved in the long term aim of our organisation and help to shape the lives and futures of women and girls throughout the world.
We expect encouragement, inspiration and time for reflection at our Conferences and our 79th will offer all those and more.
And what would Conference be without the important ingredients of fun and friendship? I assure you they will be self-evident.
For Thursday evening’s Opening Ceremony the Flags of our countries will be carried into the Auditorium by guiders. The welcomes and the music you will hear will reflect the spirit of the Northern Region and our joy that you have chosen to join us.
On Friday we aim to stage an outdoor event of special interest, hear from a keynote speaker relevant to our theme, Lady Marie Stubbs, and welcome our International President Ann Garvie.
The afternoon session will be devoted to our Annual meeting.
On Saturday the Programme Team, both Federation and International will illustrate how our awareness, advocacy and action are bringing rhetoric to reality and the key note speaker will be the renowned QC Baroness Helena Kennedy, defender of human rights.
Saturday evening of course means the Change of Insignia. There’ll be music from the young women of the Arco String Quartet whose fresh flexible approach and diverse range from popular to classical will bring the wonderful acoustics of the Sage to life and they will be followed by Amanda Baker bringing her own brand of spoken word comedy featuring an array of characters.
Whether by plane, rail or road make sure you make your way to Newcastle Gateshead Quays for the 79th SIGBI Conference.
Pat Black
Federation President 2012-2013