I am deeply honored and excited to step into the role of your President of SI South East Asia Pacific.
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest appreciation to the Biennium Team of 2022 -2024 for their hard work and dedication. I would like to give a call out especially to the Programme, Membership and Restructuring Committees – your tireless efforts have left an enduring legacy of impact and inspiration, and I am grateful for the opportunity to build upon your accomplishments.
One of my primary goals as president is to foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration within our organization. Each and every one of you brings unique talents, perspectives, and experiences to the table, and it is through our collective efforts that we can truly make a difference. Together, we will harness the power of unity to address the challenges facing women in our community and beyond.
The biennium logo depicts our Soroptimist lady with her hands to the sky as she soars on wings of eagles. The colours purple, orange and green are not new to us.
The official colour of International Women’s Day is purple for a variety of historical, symbolic, and feminist reasons. It is a colour that represents dignity, power, creativity, and hope.
Orange is the official colour of the United Nations UNiTE campaign and is used as a symbol of a brighter future, free from violence against women and girls.
Green symbolises our connection to Mother Earth and our dependence on its resources. It reminds us of the importance of taking care of the environment and to live sustainably.
The biennium theme “Soroptimists Empower Change" is a powerful concept that encapsulates the idea of Soroptimists taking active roles in driving positive transformation in various aspects of society. It is about recognising the inherent value and potential of Soroptimists and supporting their efforts to create a more equitable and just society for all. It's not just about women's rights; it's about recognizing that when women are empowered, entire communities and societies benefit.
My vision for the biennium is rooted in three core principles: to empower, to engage, and to elevate.
Empowerment lies at the heart of everything we do. Our goals as Soroptimists are to empower women from all walks of life to realize their full potential, pursue their passions, and achieve their dreams.
Engagement is essential to our success as an organisation. We want to create an environment that embraces diversity, celebrates individuality, and fosters belonging for women of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
Elevation represents the elevation of voices, our voices in discussions and decisions in making tangible and lasting difference in the lives of women and girls in our community. Whether through our advocacy efforts, community outreach programs, or collaborative partnerships, we will strive to effect meaningful change that challenge stereotypes and promote change on a boarder scale. an organization that stands at the forefront of championing women's rights and empowerment.
As we move forward, I invite you to join me in a renewed commitment to our cause. Let's embrace innovation, foster inclusivity, and strive for excellence in everything we do. By working together, we can overcome challenges and achieve our goals.
Thank you for your continued support and for being an integral part of our community. I am excited about the future we will build together and look forward to the remarkable achievements we will accomplish.
Yours in Soroptimism,
Joanne Yeoh
SISEAP President, 2024-2026
