We are women of all ages, from all walks of life and cultures who join together at a monthly meeting to make things happen! Soroptimist International Jersey was ‘chartered’ in December 1950, and became part of the South West & Channel Islands Region.
Meet some of our members, to see what they have to say about why they became a Soroptimist:
“I am very excited to have joined Soroptimist Jersey and look forward to taking part in some of its amazing initiatives. Having been involved in campaigns and similar organisations in the UK during my time at University, I am keen to find out more about some of the amazing work being done here in Jersey – and hopefully get involved myself. Joining the Soroptimist’s seemed like a perfect way to meet like-minded and knowledgable women, and support some of Jersey’s most worthwhile projects and causes.“
Emily Garton – Joined 2025
“I joined SI Jersey in 1967 waiting in those days till I was 25 years old. My Father had been a Rotarian for years and I was used to service being a key factor in both clubs. I have made an amazing number of friendships over the years and taken part in so many worthwhile projects. I feel SI Jersey has made a great contribution to pastoral care in e.g. Jersey Carers, The Refuge, supporting students with bursaries and donating funds to support many charities.”
Jill Campbell – Joined 1967
“Soroptimist International exactly expresses itself. We are a group of women who care about local and World needs of other women and girls. Of course we care about men but we specialise on feminine issues. I was particularly attracted to the worldwide aspect of this service club. The other members were full of information, knowledge and ‘how to do it’ when confronted with family, health and social issues. I joined when under 40 and we could do with more younger members!”
Celia Jeune
“Back in the mid 1990s I answered a call in the JEP to volunteer at the Jersey Women’s Refuge. That is where I first learnt about Soroptimist International Jersey, as Club members were the driving force to establish the Refuge in the 1980s (now re-named Freeda).
Many years later I met a SIJ President and she was delighted the word ‘Soroptimist’ was not new to me. Since learning about the suffragettes for O level history, awareness of the unequal world that women and girls experience had only grown. I liked the ethos of the Soroptimists, and knew that if I was to give my time, away from my then young daughters, it had to be for a greater good. Although, I could not have committed to the Club without the support of my husband.
I have become friends with some wonderful women of all ages, whom I would have never met otherwise. The Club provides a fascinating window into Island life through our initiatives and speakers. The opportunities the Club has provided me with has definitely increased confidence in myself, helping implement ideas that really make a difference.
Through being a Soroptimist I had the opportunity to become a member of “Women in Politics”. After seeing the inspiring UK marches in 2018, celebrating 100 years of (some) women getting the vote, my suggestion of Jersey following suit in 2019, to celebrate the Island’s 100 year anniversary of this historic milestone, was accepted. Leading that march up King Street was a proud day, and felt like full circle from my O level studies.
Catherine Kirby – Joined 2013
