The 20th Soroptimist International Convention in Istanbul certainly lived up all the expectations of a great Convention, but for me the highlights came on Sunday July 12th 2015 with an all inspiring “Public Speaking Showcase”
Fresh ideas and Empowering Women was a theme effortlessly demonstrated by five highly capable young women, aged 18yrs to 22 yrs, setting out on their own paths from different countries across the world.
Our own Flora Garner representing England, Ciara Maguire from the Republic of Ireland, Alana Hughes from Northern Ireland, Rose Lakoro Pitoj from Papua New Guinea and Ton Yan Ru from Singapore were the chosen speakers. They each inspired Soroptimists from around the world with their ambitions, conviction, knowledge and vision for their own lives and those of women and girls.
At the end of this session the whole, packed auditorium, arose and gave these five extremely talented young people a well deserved standing ovation-quite an emotional experience which I will never forget. They were then presented with a plaque commemorating their achievement by Immediate past International President Ann Garvie.
This event could not have been possible for Flora without the generosity of clubs and individuals within the Midland Arden Region. On behalf of Flora, I therefore send you grateful thanks for the support and encouragement you gave her.
Georgie Larsen-Archer