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Soroptimist International South West Pacific

Celebrating Growth and Connection: A Success Story

Soroptimist International of South Perth is proud to share the growth and achievements of our club, which has steadily expanded since its chartering in 1998. Over the past five years alone, membership has increased by more than 50%, earning recognition with a Recruitment and Retention Award.

Through a clear strategy, welcoming culture, and strong community presence, our club continues to thrive. Together, we remain committed to empowering women and girls locally and globally through education, advocacy, and opportunity. Currently we have 53 members with a median age of 56 - each bringing unique skills, perspectives, and dedication to the Soroptimist mission.

Strategic Growth and Planning

Recognising the importance of recruitment and retention to our Federation status, the club

developed a seven-point plan to raise our profile and strengthen engagement. This plan involved:

- Assessing current membership and identifying challenges.

- Surveying members and learning from past successes and shortcomings.

- Defining available resources - time, funds, and volunteer skills.

- Exploring strategies used by other organisations and adapting them to our needs.

- Establishing priorities, creating an action plan, and assigning team roles.

- Monitoring progress with flexibility and transparency.

- Celebrating successes along the way.

Recruitment Strategies That Work

Personal connection remains our strongest recruitment tool. Word-of-mouth recommendations and personal invitations consistently bring new members to our club. To extend our reach, we have developed a 'Friends of Soroptimist' email group, allowing women unable to attend regular meetings to stay connected and engaged.

Our Membership Committee, alongside a dedicated Publicity Officer, has expanded our presence through social media, local media coverage, and community collaborations.

Participation in other service club events has broadened networks and created opportunities for partnership.

Annual events such as the International Women’s Day Breakfast and the Jean Hailes Women’s Health Breakfast each attract over 100 women, many of whom later join as members. Thoughtful touches - such as branded gifts, informational leaflets, and Soroptimist business cards - ensure our identity remains visible and welcoming to newcomers.

Focusing on Retention

As one of the largest clubs in the Federation, retaining members is a priority. A varied program of service activities ensures that all members can contribute according to their skills and interests. Monthly meetings are designed to be welcoming and inclusive, with quality venues and opportunities for connection.

New members are paired with mentors, supported with induction sessions, and encouraged to join committees where friendships and networks naturally flourish.

Leadership training, service opportunities, and recognition initiatives - including service badges, awards, and the President’s Award for Outstanding Soroptimism - further strengthen engagement.

Equally important is the culture of care and support. Members look out for one another, offering practical help, encouragement, and recognition of personal milestones. Fundraising events, coffee mornings, and family-inclusive activities deepen bonds and sustain long-term involvement.

Looking Ahead

Our journey demonstrates that growth is not only possible but sustainable when driven by strategy, collaboration, and a shared commitment to service. By celebrating successes, learning from challenges, and nurturing strong connections, Soroptimist International of South Perth continues to thrive.

Together, we remain dedicated to transforming the lives of women and girls - locally and globally - through education, empowerment, and opportunities.

Leanne Meldrum

Membership Coordinator

Soroptimist International of South Perth

sisouthperth@siseap.org

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To be a Soroptimist is to be part of something greater than yourself—a movement that champions the empowerment, education and advancement of women and girls across the globe. It is a commitment to service, a dedication to advocacy and a pledge to support those in need with compassion and action. But beyond the projects, the fundraising and the meetings, what does it truly mean to embody the spirit of Soroptimism?

A Heart for Service
A true Soroptimist serves selflessly. Whether it’s providing scholarships for young women, supporting victims of domestic violence, or advocating for human rights, a Soroptimist is driven by a genuine desire to make a difference.

A Voice for the Voiceless
Soroptimists stand up for those who cannot always stand up for themselves, advocating for the education of girls, gender equality and the eradication of violence against women. A true Soroptimist uses her voice to challenge injustice, inspire change and ensure their concerns are heard in communities, governments, and globally.

A Bond of Friendship
One of the most beautiful aspects of being a Soroptimist is the camaraderie shared among members, friendships formed within our clubs are built on mutual respect, encouragement and a shared mission. We are a sisterhood bound by purpose and that unity strengthens us all by celebrating our achievements and supporting each other through all challenges.

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
A Soroptimist is always learning how she can grow and evolve to be a more effective leader, mentor, and advocate. Develop our skills, broadening our perspectives, and being informed by educating ourselves, making us more powerful agents of change.

A Legacy of Empowerment
A true Soroptimist understands that her work is not just about today but about shaping a better future for generations to come, knowing that when we educate, enable and empower, we create lasting transformation. Every has the potential to sustain an unstoppable chain of progress.

The Soroptimist Spirit
To be a true Soroptimist is to embody hope, resilience and action. It is to show up, speak out and stand strong for the principles we believe in. To serve with passion and purpose, knowing that even the smallest effort can spark change in the world.

Each of us, is unique and contributes to our clubs. Whether through leadership, volunteering, advocacy, or simply offering a listening ear. Together, we make a difference—locally and globally.
When women help women, amazing things happen.

Warm regards,
Cath Dodd

Member of SI Gold Coast

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Membership Annual Reports for 2024

Membership Convenor Kristeen Johnstone is pleased to present the Membership Committee annual reports for 2024.

Demonstrating SISEAP members' dedication, these reports showcase SISEAP members' continued efforts in Educating, Empowering, and Enabling women and girls."

Read the Reports here    pdf SISEAP Membership reports 2025(936 KB)

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What’s Your Elevator Pitch?

Have you heard of an “elevator pitch”?

It’s a simple, short way to explain something important—like what it means to be a Soroptimist. Imagine you had just 30 seconds to tell someone why you are part of this organization. What would you say?

I spoke with Hanaa Wong Abdullah, the SISEAP Communication Convenor, about her elevator pitch. Her advice?

“Create one that’s true to you. It should feel natural and reflect your own voice—that way, it’s authentic and impactful.”

Why does this matter?

Because when someone asks, “What’s a Soroptimist?” or “Why do you volunteer?” it’s your chance to inspire them.

Whether they’re a potential member, donor, or supporter, your pitch can show them what Soroptimists do and why it matters.

How to Create Your Elevator Pitch:

Here’s a simple 6-step guide to help you craft your own:

1. Know What You Want to Share: Think about what’s most important. For example: • “SISEAP unites women across 13 countries to lead change in their communities.”

2. Think About Who You’re Speaking To: Tailor your message for the person in front of you. • Potential Members: Highlight the benefits of joining. • Donors or Supporters: Focus on the impact Soroptimists create.

3. Explain the Problem Soroptimists Address: Be clear about what we’re working to change. Example: “Women in many places face barriers to leadership and equality. Soroptimists work to break those barriers.”

4. Share How Soroptimists Make a Difference: Talk about the solutions we provide. Example: “We focus on education, advocacy, and building strong networks to empower women.”

5. Highlight Real Results: Share a success story or impactful numbers. Example: “Last year, Soroptimist members launched over 50 projects, transforming thousands of lives across our region.”

6. Invite Action: End with what you want the listener to do. Example: “If you care about empowering women, we’d love for you to join us or support our work!”

Example Elevator Pitch:
“SISEAP brings together women from 13 countries to lead social and economic change. We tackle barriers to leadership and equality through education, advocacy, and collaboration. With over 50 successful projects last year, we’re making real change happen. If you believe in empowering women, join us or support our mission!”


Feel free to make your pitch your own. Practice it until it feels natural—it’s your personal way to share the
incredible work of Soroptimists.

Contributed by:
Kristeen Johnston – Membership Convenor
Hanaa Wong Abdullah – Communication Convenor

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SISEAP Membership

Soroptimist International is a global movement of women, with members belonging to more than 3,000 clubs in 126 countries/territories, spread over 5 Federations