Five Medway and Maidstone Soroptimists attended the Soroptimist International Convention in Dublin.
We had an app to download that enabled us to follow the programme, speakers, attendees, tours, social events, posters, and social media.
We joined 1700 Soroptimists from all 5 Federations and were given a warm welcome in Dublin. We went sightseeing in and around the city including visiting the famous Guinness factory.
Two of us attended the AGM prior to the Convention, and heard what had been achieved over the past 4 years. A new post has been created on the SI Board. Pat Dale MBE has been appointed the first SI Representative for the Commonwealth focusing on ‘working together.’
We saw more than 100 posters in the Exhibition Hall submitted by clubs and regions on their project work. Also on display were the two quilts made by SI San Fernando from the patches of peace taken to Belfast. Our patch of peace designed by Julia and Wanda could be seen.
A new SI logo was presented and is to be launched in the Autumn.
For the first time we heard from the UN representatives, and they reinforced the importance of us submitting programme focus forms that inform their reporting and ensure SI maintains it’s consultative status.
We heard from some inspirational speakers including Mary Robinson and Renate Dwan.
As the Convention came to a close an announcement was made about the next convention in 2027. It will be one with a difference, a ‘Wave of Change’ Royal Caribbean cruise to Alaska.
We enjoyed a gala dinner where we enjoyed traditional Irish dancing, music and singing. Sadly it was then time to say farewell to Soroptimist friends, old and new and head for home.