On International Literacy Day, our Federations proudly present a diverse collection of projects from around the world that illuminate the transformative power of Literacy and Education. From Marrakech, where girls have been provided the opportunity to continue their education in full support and at no cost, to Sierra Leone’s Bo district, where phonics books are unlocking the potential of hundreds of eager learners, and even to the heart of Swindon, where books are nurturing the love of reading in young minds, these initiatives showcase the indomitable spirit of those dedicated to spreading literacy.
Across continents, these projects remind us that literacy is not just about words on a page—it’s a beacon of hope, empowerment, and opportunity. Join us as we celebrate the magic of words and the boundless potential they hold for women and girls, individuals and communities alike.
Soroptimist International of Great Britain and Ireland
In celebration of International Literacy Day, we highlight Soroptimist International of Great Britain and Ireland’s (SIGBI) impactful projects worldwide. In Phyang Village, India, women have gained literacy and life skills since November 2021, aided by nutritious meals and winter heating. OAKS in Sierra Leone created vital phonics books for primary students, benefitting 200 children, while Swindon Club’s book donations in the UK improve reading skills. In Jamaica, SI Mid-Eastern Jamaica promotes reading habits at local schools. These initiatives reflect SIGBI’s global dedication to literacy and education.
Soroptimist International Africa Federation
For a closer look at the remarkable projects that have transformed and illuminated communities within the Soroptimist International Africa (SIAF) Federation, we look to the stories of change and empowerment with a focus on Literacy and Education across Ghana, Morocco and Nigeria. From the Maale Dada Library in Accra, Ghana, to SI Marrakech Fondateur’s transformative boarding house in Morocco, and SI Agadir’s commitment to rural schoolgirls, these initiatives transcend borders to uplift and educate. Meanwhile, SI Lagos Mainland’s enduring dedication to their school in Nigeria further showcases this the commitment of SIAF to transforming the lives through education and empowerment.
Soroptimist International South-East Asia Pacific
Igniting a passion for reading among children to providing essential educational support, these projects coordinated by clubs within the Soroptimist International South-East Asia Pacific (SISEAP) Federation exemplify the profound impact literacy initiatives can have on young minds and their communities. Delve into the inspiring stories of SI Beenleigh’s ‘Follow the Sugar Trail,’ SI Lautoka’s library efforts, SI Geelong’s Literacy and Numeracy bags, and SI Nadi’s commitment to strengthening educational support for local families. These projects exemplify the spirit of International Literacy Day and the boundless possibilities it holds for a bright future.
Soroptimist International of the Americas
Marking International Literacy Day, Soroptimist International of the Americas (SIA) proudly champions its ‘Big Goal Accelerator’ program, designed to empower women and girls through education, aligning with the ambitious 2021-2031 Big Goal of impacting half a million lives. Join us in exploring SIA’s literacy-focused projects, like those led by SI Batangas Downtown, SI Rosario, and SI Rio Negro, as they contribute to the cause of literacy and empowerment.
Soroptimist International of Europe
As we commemorate International Literacy Day, we the focus to two inspiring projects within the Soroptimist International of Europe (SIE) Federation that are making a profound impact on women’s lives through literacy and education. Transcending geographical boundaries and transforming lives, these projects hosted by SI clubs in France and Germany have seen women respectively empowered with reading, writing and income generating skills in Senegal, as well as bringing economic independence and education threw sewing and literacy to women in Afghanistan.