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Soroptimist International South West Pacific

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Each year, Soroptimist Clubs and Regions are invited to nominate a project for the Best Practice Award.  The projects need to demonstrate their excellence in planning, administering and evaluating a project to transform lives for women and girls around the Federation,  This is a prestigious award, showcasing projects which have achieved results.

This is the 2021 Best Practice Award winners.

Education

SI GRIFFITH SHINE – EMPOWERING WOMEN TO THRIVE THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES
ID 2020110543550

This project used lessons learned in a previous project to inform a new focus and direction – one which looked more closely at diversity, financial awareness, health, technology and hands-on workshops. Extremely well-planned and monitored the event provided over 80 women with a range of informed speakers and workshops as well as access to counselors. It specifically addressed community issues such as mental health and an increase in domestic violence during COVID-19.

Health

SI BEENLEIGH - YOU ARE AMAZING WELLNESS DAY                   

ID 20210306031516
Concerned, during the height of COVID-19, about the mental health and well being of family, friends and community the club decided to run a day which emphasised several aspects of mental health, mind, body and soul as well as anxiety and depression. The well-organised project involved extensive consultation and support results included discussion and monitored progress consistently.

Economic Empowerment

SI Damansara Accelerating Women’s Empowerment with Mentari Sewing Studio@ Desa Mentari
ID 20201218094153

This well-researched and organised project used networks well to undertake sewing lessons and products for a group of the poorest women who lost employment during COVID Movement Controls in the country. Careful research and data use enabled both selection of those for sewing classes as well as evaluation of the project, a Social Enterprise that uplifted and empowered single mothers and women from the poorest segment in society. It has the potential for further growth.

Elimination of Violence

SI Beenleigh 16 days of Activism – a woman has a right to be safe
ID 20201209061100

This four-pronged project arose out of community discussion that identified Domestic Violence(DV) as a major community issue. To broaden its engagement of the community the club decided firstly on an advocacy event – a street vigil. The second component was a large advertisement that addressed DV to run on a large screen in the town square for 16 Days. The dedication of a purple memorial seat in public and the supply of books that addressed the issue to schools completed the project. This effectively planned project utilised the club’s growing network and support from previous campaigns to create a bold, well-planned and executed campaign.

Environment

SI Lautoka 500 Trees Pledge
ID 20200831083714

This project which linked with a government policy to plant 4 million trees in 4 years enabled the club to obtain free trees for reafforestation to offset climate change, food security and revenue generation. The club liaised with 8 schools as well as planting in reserved areas. This ensured that trees were protected and maintained as growth was monitored. 500 seedlings of trees native to Fiji were collected and planted and social media posts ensured publicity and encouraged contributions.

Conflict Resolution

SI Lautoka I am Generation Equality; Realising Women’s Rights
ID 2020112905-710

This event, a primary and high school oratory competition, which has been taking place for 7 years, gave 30 future leaders an opportunity to investigate and debate this topic which the Fijian government considers of high importance The club researched data on this issue in Fiji and used their partnership and sponsor network to obtain permission, organise, publicise and secure judges for the competition which is a highly anticipated event in school calendars.

Disaster Relief

SI Beenleigh Drought and Bushfire Assistance Project
ID 20201209063427

Prolonged drought followed at times by bushfires had an impact on farmers whose children could not afford to obtain supplies for school. The club investigated this with the local MP for the Southern Downs, a hard hit region and 6 local schools were identified as most vulnerable. Existing Target 10 bags with 10 crucial supplies already existed but would be needed locally. A donation page was activated for one month and was supported by a social media campaign. Schools were contacted to check what was required and when supplies were organised, members drove long distances to ensure timely delivery. A multi- pronged approach, consultation and organisation ensured that needs were met for the start of the school year.

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