“Ask me why I’m a Soroptimist” was the challenge from Rayner Rees to members attending the recent SI South Lancashire Regional Programme Action meeting.
She went on to explain exactly what made her join Soroptimist International and what keeps her there. “I want to be a woman who makes a difference,” she said. “I love meeting other women from around the world and having an immediate bond, because we know we share similar passions.”
Rayner is Assistant Programme Director (Economic Empowerment) for Soroptimist International, Great Britain & Ireland (SIGBI) Federation – part of the Programme Team. She described a number of the exciting projects currently bringing Soroptimists together, including the Meru Women’s Garden Project in Kenya and the International President’s appeal ‘Educate To Lead’ in Nepal.
At the Regional Council meeting, Sue Biggs (SIGBI Vice President) spoke about ‘Vision 2021’ – where do Soroptimists want to be in 2021 when SI marks 100 years? She set out the strategic plan for the years ahead.
Last – but certainly not least – Margaret Emsley (SIGBI President, and a member of SI Ashton-under-Lyne) reminded everyone that last year’s planned sponsored parachute jump by Ann Garvie (then International President) and Margaret Baker (then Regional President) had to be abandoned.
President Margaret announced that, as ‘compensation’ she will be joining Ann and Margaret B. in Snowdonia on 11th August to travel on the longest and fastest zipwire in Europe. Sponsorship is very welcome – in aid of SIGBI’s Diamond Education Grant.
