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

Current Discussions on Elections in Aotearoa New Zealand

Right now, elections and voting are a prominent topic of discussion in Aotearoa New Zealand. The triennial local government elections are underway, and there is ongoing debate about voter participation. Notably, during the 2023 local government elections, only 40.88% of eligible voters cast their ballots. In comparison, the 2023 General Election saw a turnout of 77.1%.

Unlike Australia—where voting is compulsory, as it is in 13% of the world’s democracies—Aotearoa New Zealand does not require eligible citizens to vote. This distinction raises important questions about civic engagement and the relevance of voting in our society.

Relevance to Soroptimist International

This discussion is especially pertinent at the SISEAP Federation level, where nominations for the 2026–2028 SISEAP positions have recently opened. Similarly, Soroptimist International ANZ has invited members to step up to national governance positions. These calls for participation highlight the opportunities available for members to engage in leadership and governance within the organisation.

The Privilege of Participation

It is important to recognise how fortunate we are that most women in our Federation—and at many levels—are free to vote and pursue leadership roles. Many women around the world still face significant barriers to these privileges. For example, I recently learned that women, particularly from the Global South, were prevented from attending the 2025 UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York. The main reasons cited were restrictive US visa policies, insufficient funding, limited travel resources, and other structural barriers.

This situation highlights the ongoing unfairness that persists globally. Despite the progress women have made, there are still many countries where it remains difficult for women to vote or participate in governance.

Historical Perspectives on Suffrage

Reflecting on our own history, I realised I knew little about the suffrage journey within our own SISEAP Federation. Research revealed that progress towards women’s right to vote has varied greatly across regions. On 19th September 2025, women in Aotearoa New Zealand celebrated the 132nd anniversary of women’s suffrage. Kate Sheppard, a leading New Zealand suffragist, was instrumental in organising the 1893 Women’s Suffrage Petition, which led New Zealand to become the first country in the world to establish universal suffrage.

When travelling in the United States, I was reminded by a local that Wyoming, in 1869, was the first territory to grant women the right to vote and hold office, making it a pioneer in women’s suffrage in the US. According to Wikipedia, Mongolian women were able to vote and be elected as President by 1924. In Australia, women gained the right to vote at the federal level in 1902, with this right extended to all women in 1962. Malaysian women received the right to vote in 1957, coinciding with the country’s independence, marking a major milestone towards gender equality. In Fiji, the general elections held in April–May 1963 allowed women and indigenous Fijians to vote for the first time alongside other populations.

A Call to Action

With this history in mind, I encourage members to consider stepping up to local and Federation Soroptimist positions. By doing so, you not only have the opportunity to influence the future of our organisation but also to develop your own leadership skills and experiences.

At Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific, we find ourselves at a crossroads: we must choose to modernise and grow, or we risk further decline in membership.

Reflections on the Past and Present

As we reflect on these issues, one might wonder what our ancestors would think of the current decline in voter participation and the persistent barriers to equality faced by so many women today.

Kristeen Johnston

2024-2026 SISEAP Membership Convenor

membership.kristeen@siseap.org

Membership

Sewn Up for Change: How Sustainable Sewing is Growing SI North Shore’s Membership

Soroptimist International North Shore’s “Sewn Up” upcycling sewing programme is stitching together a powerful story of sustainability, skills development, and Soroptimist values in action, while also inspiring new members to join our mission.
Originally launched in partnership with East Coast Bays Library and in collaboration with Trash Free Taiaotea, the initiative offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced-level sewing classes to local women of all ages. The aim: reduce textile waste heading to landfill, teach practical repair and upcycling skills, and build a stronger, more connected community.

Each course level introduces new techniques — from sewing basics and simple tote bags to more advanced garment alterations and sustainable fashion practices. The classes are inclusive, hands-on, and proudly free to participants, with a focus on learning, confidence-building, and environmental action.

The results have been extraordinary:

• Over 18 women have now participated in the course.
• More than 7.8kg of second-hand fabric was reused in just one session.
• And most excitingly, four new members have already joined Soroptimist North Shore directly as a result of the programme, with only a few weeks left to the end of this programme we may see more exploring the option to volunteer or support our projects.

The classes also support Heal the Teal, our national project raising awareness of ovarian cancer, through sewing items to sell and promote the cause.

We’ve found that many of our learners are drawn not only to the sewing, but to the values and community Soroptimists represents. By sharing our work, providing information about membership, and inviting participants to be part of something bigger, we’re growing our impact and our club.

We have had over 50 registrations for the programme which has been publicised through Auckland Council ‘Our Auckland’ and their Instagram. https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/2025/07/sewn-up-upcycling-sewing-classes/

East Coast Bays Library are keen for us to provide similar classes to a youth group which we are considering. We now have interest from a second library in Takapuna wanting to host similar classes, and plans are underway to explore this next year.

Sewing may be the thread — but it's the Soroptimist purpose and partnership that are tying it all together.

Sylvia Heywood

President, SI North Shore

Friendship Links

Congratulations to our Sisters Online club who have had the following two Friendship Links confirmed within the last month:

•    with SI Thunder Bay, Eastern Canada, Soroptimist International of the Americas
•    with SI Tricities, Western Canada, Soroptimist International of the Americas

We look forward to following these Friendship Links and hearing of future projects and events which the two clubs share.

Do remember to make your requests for Friendship Links, or for an update of any information on the Friendship Links Database, via the form under Friendship Links in the Members area of the SISEAP website HERE.

In friendship,

Eileen Middleton

SISEAP Friendship Link Coordinator 2024-2026

SISEAP’s membership has been declining for over a decade, and this year the drop is critical. Our Federation’s survival depends on increasing members — every conversation, invitation, and action counts.

The Board has launched a Federation-Wide Member‑to‑Member (M2M) Campaign to:

• Raise awareness of Soroptimist in every community

• Provide clubs with recruitment tools, resources, and training

• Support clubs through appointed Membership Champions - could this be you? 

• Drive a high-impact campaign from now continuing through 2026

You can help:

• Share our mission with at least 2 people this week

• Bring a guest to your next club meeting

• Plan recruitment events with your Membership Champion

Every member is a recruiter. Every action matters. Together, we can bring new energy, voices, and leaders into SISEAP — and secure the future of our Federation.

Our goal: Grow membership by 10% by December 2025, and a focusing on this and other recruitment initiatives in 2026.

Big news ahead! We’re developing exciting incentives for members and clubs—announcement coming soon!

Everything you need to recruit new members with ease.
This is where you can find ready-to-use social media graphics, email templates, tip sheets, club brochures, and step-by-step guides — all designed to help you share the Soroptimist story and inspire others to join. New resources will be added each month, so check back regularly for fresh ideas and materials.

Learn, apply, and grow your club’s membership.
Our tutorials and training cover everything from ready-to-use marketing materials and recruitment toolkits to skills workshops, campaign ideas, and mentorship. Whether you’re hosting an event, promoting online, or welcoming new members, you’ll find practical guidance and resources to help your club succeed.

Check back soon to see the latest tutorials to help your club succeed.

Here is the place where you can find the links, dates, and times for our upcoming webinars. New sessions will be added regularly, so check back often to stay up to date.

Discover the rewards designed to inspire and motivate your club. These incentives celebrate your efforts in growing membership and supporting the campaign. More will be revealed in the upcoming M2M launch webinar—check below for the latest details.

First Incentive Announced: Special Incentive for New Members (Oct–Dec 2025)

Anyone who joins between 1 October and 31 December 2025 will have their 2025 quarterly fee waived.

Instead, their first payment will be the full annual membership fee for 2026.

This means new members can join now, start enjoying all the benefits of being a Soroptimist immediately, and not pay membership fees until the new year!

 Recruit & Reward (Jan-June 2026):

Any existing General member who recruits a new member between 1 January and 30 June 2026 will receive a AUD $10 discount off their 2027 annual full membership fee.

Any existing member who recruits a new member in any other membership category (where the fee is less than the full membership fee) will receive a discount equal to 10% of that category’s fee, applied to their 2027 annual full membership fee.

To qualify, the recruited member must remain financial throughout 2026 and renew in the 2027 annual returns.

Each member may claim this discount for up to four new recruits during the incentive period, with a maximum discount of AUD $40 (or 4 × 10% of the relevant lower membership categories).

Background information for the Member-to-Member (M2M) Campaign are available for download.

Go to Downloads > Membership > M2M Campaign or via the link below

(Please note: you must be logged in to access this section.)

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

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)

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

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

Membership Best Practice Awards 2025

Clubs are invited to celebrate their membership initiatives and successes.

GREAT NEWS!

Along with the Best Practice Award certificate, clubs have an exciting opportunity to win prizes! This is for the Recruitment Award only.

1. The highest number of new members recruited for a club from 1st January 2024 - 31st December 2024. 1st prize AU$100, 2nd prize AU$75.

2. The highest % growth in membership for a club from 1st January 2024 - 31st December 2024. 1st prize A$100, 2nd prize A$75

Nominations will be sought in the 1 February and 1 March Bulletin, with a close-off date of 25 March 2025. The Awards will be presented at the Federation meeting on 18th May 2025.

SISEAP Recruitment and Retention Membership Award 2025

Noting number of new members and membership % increase from1st January 2024 - 31st December 2024, plus the provision of a 2024 Recruitment and Retention Plan, and a photo or photos

SISEAP Friendship Links Award 2025

noting activities undertaken with a Friendship Link Club in the past two years (social, training, programme, and/or other).

SISEAP Diversity of Membership Award 2025 

What is your understanding of the importance of diversity in a Soroptimist club, and how has your club taken steps to enhance inclusivity and diverse representation?Share examples of how your club has worked to create an inclusive environment within your Soroptimist club, ensuring diverse voices are heard and respected. Diversity can include a range of cultures, ages, skills, socio-economic backgrounds, geographical locations, abilities and disabilities, and membership categories, all showing the club's inclusive nature. Supply a photo/s showing the diversity of your club, if possible.

SISEAP Membership Innovation Award 2025

An open award that showcases a club’s creativity and/or originality, a positive impact, potential for sustainability or adaptability, and instances of collaboration or partnerships, with a membership outcome for training or recruitment or retention.

Kristeen Johnston

SISEAP Membership Convenor 2024-2026

membership.kristeen@siseap.org