On Thursday, 27 July, Soroptimists from across the globe gathered at the Soroptimist International (SI) 2023 Convention in Dublin, Ireland, celebrating their friendship and projects supporting women and girls. 

Sue Perry, the Soroptimist International Convention Chair, welcomed everyone into the Convention and the city of Dublin.  

Deborah Thomas, the Global Executive Director, gave the roll call of country flags, welcoming members from each attending country, with smiles, cheers, and standing ovations as each country was announced. We celebrated the coming together of Soroptimist sisters and the diversity of our organisation. 

Soroptimist International President Maureen Maguire gave a very emotional opening speech, thanking Soroptimists for their commitment and hard work. 

The rebranding of the SI emblem was unveiled, showcasing the development and growth of the organisation, which is reflected in the new branding. Chris Gooch, the designer of the new emblem, shared his thought process behind the new design, illustrating how it captures SI’s message.  

Eadaoin Lawlor, the President of the National Association Republic of Ireland, and Barbara Carlisle, the President of the Region of Northern Ireland, highlighted the advancement across the island of Ireland, giving us a true Irish welcome and celebrating Ireland’s bountiful culture. 

Roderic O’Gorman, Minister of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth of Ireland, our invited speaker and advocate for the rights of women and children, gave us some food for thought. He highlighted the global issues faced by women and girls, recognising the determination of Soroptimists to strive for an equal and inclusive society. He shed light onto Ireland’s initiatives to better the lives of women and children, such as better investments in childcare services which consequently allow women to have more work freedom and a better living standard. 

Immediate Past President Sharon Fisher (2020-2021) officially declared the Convention open.