One of the proudest moments of my Soroptimist journey so far came early in the year, when I attended my first official engagement as President at the centenary of the St Helens cenotaph. Representing our club and laying a wreath on such a significant occasion was deeply moving, a moment that reminded me of the privilege and responsibility of this role.
The day became even more meaningful with the unveiling of a new memorial dedicated to the women of St Helens and their contributions during times of war and conflict. This monument is more than a tribute; it is a long‑overdue acknowledgement of the women whose courage, resilience and sacrifice have shaped our community. From nurses and munitions workers to the women who kept families and industries going through the darkest of times, their stories now have a permanent place in our town’s history.
What made the occasion especially powerful was the spirit of collaboration behind it. Working alongside the outgoing Mayor of St Helens, members of the Inner Wheel, and councillors from across the borough showed just how much we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose. This monument stands not only as a symbol of women’s strength, but also as a testament to partnership, proof that when organisations unite, meaningful change becomes possible.
It was also a lovely surprise to see our own club included on the inscription. Knowing that Soroptimist International St Helens is now part of this permanent memorial gives us a lasting legacy, something future Soroptimists will be able to look upon with pride, seeing what can be achieved when women work together for women.
Seeing Past President Linda help unveil the memorial was a moment of real Soroptimist fulfilment. Her involvement reflected the continuity of our mission: honouring women’s stories, championing their contributions, and ensuring their legacy endures.
For our small but mighty club, it was a day that captured exactly why we do what we do. And for me, it’s a memory I’ll carry throughout my presidency, a reminder that celebrating women’s history is one of the most powerful ways we shape the future.
Nicola Parkinson
President, Soroptimist St Helens
