Effective communication plays a vital role in sustaining a strong and connected Soroptimist community. In today’s digital environment, members increasingly rely on online platforms and mobile applications to stay informed, collaborate, and maintain relationships across our thirteen countries and regions.

Across SISEAP, communication patterns are evolving. Anecdotally, we observe that email responses are often limited, attendance at webinars varies, and readership of the SISEAP Bulletin may not be as widespread as we would hope. This suggests not a lack of interest, but a possible mismatch between how we communicate and how members prefer to receive information.

We must also acknowledge the diverse realities within our region. Internet connectivity can be inconsistent in some areas, laptop ownership varies significantly between urban and rural communities, and many members rely primarily on mobile phones for both personal and professional communication. In addition, for many members, English is a second language. These factors influence how easily and effectively information is accessed and understood.

Across South East Asia Pacific, widely used communication platforms include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Viber, LINE (in some countries), and other locally preferred applications. WhatsApp is particularly prevalent in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Facebook Messenger is widely used in Australia, New Zealand, and Mongolia. Viber is commonly used in parts of the Pacific, including Fiji. In Thailand and Vietnam, locally dominant platforms such as LINE and Zalo are popular. Email services such as Gmail remain essential for formal communication and document sharing.

This landscape highlights an important consideration: many of our members operate in a mobile-first environment. If SISEAP communications rely primarily on email, we may unintentionally limit our reach and responsiveness.

As we look toward the future, it may be timely for SISEAP to reflect on how we share information across the Federation. How can we better align our communication channels with the platforms our members use daily? How might we complement email with additional channels that are accessible, practical, and inclusive?

By thoughtfully reviewing and strengthening our communication approach, we can ensure that SISEAP remains connected, responsive, and well-positioned to “strengthen the foundations for the future.”

Kristeen Johnstone

2024-2026 Membership Convenor

membership.kristeen@siseap.org

A successful recruitment programme is essential for the growth, vitality, and sustainability of any Soroptimist club. As a global volunteer organisation for women, Soroptimists focus on empowering women and girls through projects, advocacy, and networking.

 Attracting new members ensures fresh perspectives, increased resources, and the continued ability to make a positive impact in local and international communities.

A successful Soroptimist club recruitment programme is not just about increasing numbers—it’s about building a vibrant, engaged, and diverse community of women dedicated to service and advocacy. By combining clear messaging, inclusive practices, active outreach, and ongoing support, clubs can create a welcoming environment where new members feel inspired to contribute and grow.

To demonstrate a commitment to SISEAP Best Practice, I am sharing with you a video of SI South Perth’s membership strategy.

As you know, over the years, they have been successful in numerous SISEAP Best Practice Awards and as such, an excellent example of successful continued club membership recruitment and retention.

Thank you to all who are providing feedback and embracing the current M2M membership Campaign. We really appreciate your efforts!

Here’s to our 10% increase in membership by 31^st December 2025.

Kristeen Johnston

SISEAP Membership Convenor

The celebration in August 2025 for SI Darkhan’s 25^th Anniversary, in conjunction with the celebration of SI Ulaanbaatar‘s 20^th Anniversary, was an amazing experience for 7 sisters from SI Bangsar.  Our friendship link with SI Darkhan manifested into reality and we made new friendships with members from other Clubs more than we ever expected.

After having “met “ each other online, it was a joyous union to meet each other in person.  The effective use of digital communications via zoom calls, Whatsapp and emails has really brought clubs closer to each other . 

Seeing the Mongolian club projects with single mothers – procuring land rights from the authorities,  acquiring “gers’ for housing of needy families, reforestation of land laid barren by mining , partnering with giant corporations was a true eye-opener.

We shared the home of our SI Darkhan sisters and even did the city walkabout at UB. The cultural experience was so enriching, especially watching the dances which had ballet elements, the music that sounded like a horse neighing or galloping, the operatic voice that astounded everyone at dinner, the throat singing by a female member that was unique to Mongolia.

The rustic elements and the city, and cross country sights showed a developing nation. Not only did we meet “history “in person in the form of a …. Tal statue of Chinggis Khan. We also visited the museum where we saw swords, catapults, and gained knowledge of Karakorum, the ancient capital city of the world.

We realize that there is so much more we can do when we motivate each other, collaborate, and keep in close touch with each club’s activities/ projects all with the same SI Mission.

Meeting the Minister showed us what it meant to have support from the “top” – she was a lady who was not only gracious, but supportive in all the work of SI Ulaanbaatar members.

Our Mongolian sisters went all out – imagine hearing “jazz” in the hills whilst enjoying a barbeque with a bonfire nearby.  Sleeping in a “ger” and waking up to see cattle grazing nearby.

We were ever so pleased to share our club’s latest project/publication of a women’s self-help book “LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE”, which we hope can be translated and adapted by SI Ulaanbaatar/Darkhan. 

Having a session on fundraising ideas was a quick and useful exchange of ideas.  We look forward to being actively involved in all things “Soroptimist“! Cheers to one and all.

Nora Lam 

President SI Bangsar