The South Lancashire Region Conference was a shining example of what it means to be a Soroptimist.
We are a community of women who come together to learn, to lead and to make a difference.
Seventy‑eight members gathered for a weekend filled with energy, insight and genuine connection. Many arrived already buzzing from the Friday night Friendship Supper, hosted by Regional President Sue Underwood. Singing, a lively music quiz and plenty of laughter was balanced by special guest Ann Garvie (Past President of Soroptimist International) whose powerful call to action on gender equality reminded us why our mission matters.
Soroptimists Kay Linnell, a forensic accountant, and her business partner Barbara Jeremiah opened the conference programme. They have spent years in a pivotal role supporting victims of the Horizon Post Office computer scandal. Their honest and emotional account highlighted the human cost of injustice and the importance of standing up for those whose voices have been ignored. It was a powerful reminder of the role Soroptimists play in advocating for fairness and accountability. Their experience is featured by Soroptimist International’s podcast.
The focus shifted to international work with an inspiring presentation on Act4Africa. The charity’s She Leads project in Uganda shows how targeted support can transform the lives of women and girls. This reaffirmed Soroptimists’ belief that even modest contributions can spark lasting change.
The afternoon began with a moving session from Dr Charlotte Badescu of the Diane Oxberry Trust. Speaking with openness and courage, she shared her lived experience of ovarian cancer, highlighting the importance of recognising symptoms early and listening to our bodies. Balancing her work as a GP, her role as a Trustee and caring for her young son, who was with her during the talk, she brought a powerful authenticity that resonated deeply with everyone in the room.
We then shifted into an opportunity for thoughtful self‑reflection. Arvid from Inspired Lives introduced us to the Wheel of Life. He encouraged us to pause and consider where we feel fulfilled, where we might want to grow and what balance truly looks like in our everyday lives. His session offered a grounding, reflective space that many found both insightful and motivating.
Alison McMath, a self-styled ‘late bloomer’, captivated delegates with her story of changing career at fifty. She spoke about her work as a founder of the MastectoME Beauty Project. This creates a bespoke makeover and portrait experience for women who have undergone breast surgery following a cancer diagnosis. Compassion, reinvention and lived experience can come together to create meaningful change. Alison’s journey was a reminder that it is never too late to reshape your path or use your story to lift others.
The conference captured everything that makes Soroptimism special. We learned together, laughed together and supported one another. We heard stories of injustice, courage, global impact and personal transformation. Most of all, we were reminded of the power of women coming together with purpose.
Soroptimists – we make a difference, build friendships, grow in confidence and feel part of something worthwhile. Soroptimists are waiting to welcome you. Get involved, and help shape a better world for women and girls, locally and globally.