Name: Siew Yong Gnanalingam, SI Petaling Jaya, SI International Convention Chair of SI Convention KL 2019
Q: How long have you been a Soroptimist and when did you join the organisation?
“I joined in January of 1994”.
Q: Please share with us a memorable experience of being a Soroptimist?
“When I was President of Soroptimist International of South West Pacific (SISWP), I initiated the Federation-wide ‘Walk The Talk – Stop Violence Against Women’ campaign during the United Nations 16 Days of Activism from 25 November to 10 December 2002 and managed to organise a walk in Malaysia involving three Soropimists, who walked 900 kms from the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia to the southernmost tip, crossing over to complete the walk in two capital cities in the states of Sabah and Sarawak (where the third President’s Appeal project is located). A few thousand walkers also participated in walks in seven cities of Malaysia creating tremendous awareness of the subject. We have continued the annual walk to date. The walk was also simultaneously organised by clubs in many parts of SISWP”.
Q: Please can you share a little about your life and professional background with us?
“I was the head of PR and Corporate Communications for Malaysia Airlines for 19 years (1978 to 1997). In my job I created many events and campaigns to promote the image of Malaysia Airlines and was key spokesperson for the company. Travel is still in my blood, which enables me to visit places which are on my long bucket list! I also very much treasure the times I get to spend with my grandchildren at home and during our holidays with them”.
Q: What is the most exciting part of working on the Committee?
“Working on creative ideas – how to make the SI Convention fun and memorable in terms of substance, quality and uniqueness”.
Q: What are you looking forward to most about the Convention?
“I am looking forward to welcoming more than 1500 delegates to the SI Convention KL 2019 and knowing that they will learn and share the achievements of the SI world, and gain information and knowledge of current and meaningful issues for the future. I hope everyone leaves with sweet memorable experiences and enjoys great sisterhood and friendship across Federations and countries”.
Early Bird Registration begins on 20 July 2018. For further information:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soroptimistconvention2019
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Email: secretariat@siconventionkl2019.org
Interview with SI Convention Chair, Puan Sri Siew Yong Gnanalingam
Register for the SI Convention at https://siconventionkl2019.org/registration/
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