Started the day with a quick visit to the many stalls which are here at the Sage. All are related to Soroptimist clubs and their projects. Many were selling beautiful things which I couldn’t resist – calendars, jewellery, key rings, books, cards – it’s amazing how much you can spend at a SIGBI conference without leaving the building.
I joined club members on the 2nd tier at the back of the auditorium to get a view of the conference the way most people were seeing and hearing it. Sue Biggs and Joanne Wagstaffe tried to get the Programme Action day off to a rousing start by encouraging us to sing I am Woman but I think that many members may have still been waking up as it proved difficult to get them to join in.
The whole day was an amazing collage of the incredible and powerful work we as Soroptimist do, often alongside partners such as Mary’s Meals. The courage and determination of our recipient of the Diamond Education Award was outstanding and I am sure that young lady will be very successful in the future. Our International Programme Director set out the Global context for us very clearly and reminded us why we are Soroptimist INTERNATIONAL It resonated with me very strongly because I think that we are so much more powerful through our network of members in many countries around the world. I find that the opportunity to work on behalf of Soroptimism within this global network, being recognised by international agencies and organisations is something which appeals to me and which I wish to be part of.
It was a great delight to present the Best Practice Awards, especially as one, the Kori Project, was outstanding, picking up three awards including the overall winner; just like the Oscars. I don’t think club members could believe it was happening to them and I look forward to being able to see their presentation again.
I was able to announce that the appeal for our lasting legacy, Under the Bridge, had brought in over 3,300 articles of clothing, roughly half being knickers and half being socks. The Centre is so delighted and it means that many of the homeless who attend will be supported over a long period of time.
Baroness Helena Kennedy rounded off the Conference, reminding us of the women’s journey toward equality, but challenging us on a definition of what equality means. She was willing to take questions at the end of the session and I am sure members would have continued if she had been able to stay longer.
Everyone headed out to eat and change ready for our celebration Change of Insignia, and then appeared at the Sage looking splendid. It is always a proud moment for those who receive their chains of office, and I hope that President Margaret will enjoy her year as much as I have enjoyed mine.
We were entertained by five talented young women, the Arco String Quartet and Amanda Baker. The first treated us to a diverse range of music and the second to some unusual poetry about day to day life. She certainly made us laugh – I especially enjoyed Shirley Temple Jesus! We came away from the Sage ready to party but I believe there were some Soroptimists who stayed at the Sage to carry on with the tango.
I have had a wonderful time at this conference and think all the planning which the Conference Committee did paid off. Things appeared to be on time and go to plan, even when the little wrinkles turned up. Congratulations and thanks to all who made our time in Gateshead so full of fun and friendships. And to the Conference makers – loved your smiles.