Soroptimist International Port Talbot recently held its Annual General Meeting, reflecting on a highly successful and impactful year of service, fundraising, friendship, and community support.
Members gathered to celebrate the club’s achievements throughout 2025–2026, recognising the dedication and enthusiasm shown by everyone involved in supporting women and girls locally, nationally, and internationally.
Celebrating Service and Community Impact
The AGM highlighted the wide range of projects and activities undertaken by the club during the year. Members continued to support numerous charities and community initiatives including Women’s Aid, Baby Basics, Bethel Baby Bank, Tools for Self Reliance Cymru, Dewis, Water Aid, Toilet Twinning, food banks, and many more.
A significant achievement this year was the continued support for Thrive support boxes for women entering refuge accommodation, with donations from Dr Organic helping the club extend its impact even further.
The club also proudly supported educational and empowerment initiatives, including helping two young women from Afan College travel to Thailand to undertake volunteer work supporting children in schools.
Successful Events Throughout the Year
Members reflected on several successful fundraising and awareness events, including:
- The International Women’s Day Breakfast attended by around 80 guests
- The Autumn Coffee Morning at the Aberavon Beach Hotel
- The popular Fashion Show at Margam Orangery with Miss Jones Boutique
- The Hearts of the Valley Show
- The annual Orange Café during the 16 Days of Activism campaign
These events not only raised valuable funds but also strengthened awareness of issues affecting women and girls while bringing the community together.
Strong Financial Position
Treasurer Julie Morse presented a positive financial report, confirming that the club donated over £5,000 to charitable causes during the year while maintaining healthy balances within both the General and Charity Accounts.
Members thanked Julie for her hard work and careful management of the club’s finances.
Growing Digital Presence
The AGM also recognised the club’s growing online presence. During her first year as Communications Officer and Website Administrator, Rachel Thomas introduced several improvements to the club website and communications systems.
Enhancements included:
- Improved website organisation and accessibility
- Dedicated pages for upcoming and recent events
- Updated partnership information
- Increased promotion through Facebook and social media
- GDPR and copyright compliance updates
These developments have helped increase engagement and visibility for the club’s activities within the wider community.
Membership and Friendship
The Membership Report confirmed that the club remains a welcoming, active, and supportive organisation with 21 members currently involved. The club is also delighted to welcome new members and prospective members who have recently shown interest in joining.
Members also took time to remember and pay tribute to former members Pam Jones and Farida Patel, recognising their longstanding contribution and friendship within the club.
Officers Elected for 2025–2026
The following officers were elected at the AGM:
- President: Margaret O’Connor
- Secretary: Margaret Poston
- Treasurer: Julie Morse
- Communications Officer & Website Administrator: Rachel Thomas
- Membership Officer: Patt Morgan, Chris Brown and Sue Baker
- Programme Action Officers: Peggy George and Janner Herd
Incoming President Margaret O’Connor thanked members for their support and spoke warmly about the club’s kindness, friendship, and commitment to making a difference.
She said:
“It is a privilege to be President of this amazing club. This is such a very friendly club and members are so very kind and helpful.”
The club now looks forward to another busy and successful year of service, friendship, and community action.