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Message from President of Soroptimist International Bangkok In 1977 a group of likeminded women in Bangkok chartered Club like Soroptimist International are a representation of the change Soroptimist International Bangkok . Fast forward to today the club we can achieve when we work together towards a better tomorrow. has achieve countless acts of service over the past 45 years, empowering women and children through education, health care, Shelter and To the Sisters of Soroptimist International Bangkok, congratulations Freedom from violence. We dedicate this book in memory of all we on our 45th Anniversary of being the voice for women and girls in have achieved and all we will do for our community in the future. our community and beyond. You have all carried the legacy till today, your commitment and dedication have not gone unnoticed. I hope On behalf of the club I would like to acknowledge and thank all those you all look back on the times that you have been a part of SIB and who have supported Soroptimist over the past 45 years, enabling us to cherish all that has been accomplished as well as look ahead to all that help those in need within our community and internationally. we will continue to accomplish within this Sisterhood. Christiane Kitchakarn President 2020 - 2021 3

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Christiane Kitchakarn Mamta Bajaj Jarunee Puongpianr Mauragote Waramontri President National Rep. President Elect 2022 Treasurer Sara Waramontri Voralak Suwanvanichkij Sukanya Nimmanheminda Joy Nicharot Jinee Russell Niru Narula Co-Treasurer Recording Secretary Training Convenor Extention Convenor UN Rep Environment Chairwoman Rita Indhewat Rojanard Waramontri Neerja Sachdev Pansy Lim Keiko Hiranprueck Elina Pancheva Fundraising Chairwoman Fundraising Co-Chairwoman Fundraising Co-Chairwoman Hospitality Japan Friendship Links Slavic and Mongolia Friendship links E-MAIL : [email protected] WEBSITE : www.sibangkok.org

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Nippita Pukdeetanukul Chawewan Yenijtr (Pam) Kittima Kaur Lux Hettiyadura Asha Sehgal Maleeratna Plumchitchom Legal Advisor Publicity Convenor Publicity Convenor Website coordinator Advisor Advisor Sunita Kulisra Angun Tewinpagti Rani Nurula Kamolchan Siwanithipat Diana Foo Frances Luns Advisor Advisor Advisor Advisor Advisor Advisor Napaporn Apaiwongs Irene Sangkhanond Carmen Cotelesso De Schuster Erna Hundt Katheleen Pokrud Chrissy Macpherson Advisor Advisor Advisor Advisor Advisor Advisor CONTACT : Christiane Kitchakarn Tel : +66 8189 30880

THE HISTORY OF SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL The name “Soroptimist” was SI received General Consultative Status with the UN in 1984. As of July 2018, coined by combining the Latin there were a total of 5,081 organizations in consultative status with the United words Soror “sister” and Optima Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), however, only 134 hold General “best”, and can be taken to mean Consultative Status. Only eleven of the 134 organizations focus on women and “best for women”. girls, so we have a very important role. Founded in 1921 the First General Consultative Status is granted to organisations that are concerned with Soroptimist Club was formed in most of the activities of the Social and Economic Council and can demonstrate to California, Adelaide Goddard the the satisfaction of the Council that they have substantial and sustained contributions Dean of Parker-Goddard School to make to the achievement of the objectives of the United Nations in a wide range Charter members of the first Soroptimist Club, 1921 was approached by Stuart Morrow of activities and in a large number of countries.To maintain our consultative status a Member of Rotary who wanted to start a Rotary club within the university. Soroptimist International is required to submit a report every four years documenting Unfortunately back then the Rotary consisted only men. Adelaide realized that our work in the UN Centers throughout the world, together with our international projects. collectively women can also achieve greatness, so Soroptimist was formed to transform the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment There are 3,975 organisations that have Specialized Consultative Status. Organisations and enabling opportunities. that have a special competence in, only a few of the fields of activity of the ECOSOC are granted Specialized consultative status. Soroptimist International of Europe (SIE) Soroptimist International (SI) is a worldwide volunteer service organization for received Specialized Consultative status in 2011, SI Great Britain and Ireland received women who work for peace, and in particular to improve the lives of women and Specialized Consultative Status in 2013, and Soroptimist International of Southwest girls, in local communities and throughout the world. Through its General Consultative Pacific received Specialized Consultative Status in 2014. Status as a non-governmental organization at the United Nations (UN), the organization seeks equality, peace, and international goodwill for women. Soroptimist International has 20 UN Reps in 7 UN Centers, specialized agencies and regional centers focusing on issues that affect women and girls. Soroptimist International focuses on Sustainable Development Goals: Education, Gender Equality and Water development. 6

Honorary MEMBER Mom Kobkaew Abhakara na Ayudhya Mom Kobkaew was born on April 5, 1908 in the noble family of “Viseshakul”. She attended and finishing school in Bangkok (1914 -1919), followed by a boarding school in Penang, Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus, where at 16 she was the first Thai student to receive the University of Cambridge, Local Examination Syndicate, Special Certificate of Malaya. Returning to Bangkok, she became the Lady in Waiting to the Court of His Majesty King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) and Her Majesty Queen Rambai Barni where she met and married H.R.H. Prince Aditya Dibabha, who later became The Regent for His Majesty King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII). Sadly, the Prince passed away in 1946 leaving Mom Kobkaew widowed. She then involved herself in numerous civic services and became a very active influential leader throughout her long life. She was very supportive of many women’s movements and philanthropist activities such as; The Thai Women Association of Thailand under The Royal Patronage of HM The Queen, The National Council of Women of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of HM The Queen, Women’s Professional Association, Diplomatic Red Cross, Ladies Golf Club of Thailand, Lions Club District 310D. On her 81st birthday, in memory of her beloved husband, she has established the “HRH Vice Admiral Prince Aditya Dibabha and Mom Korkaew Abhakara Na Ayudhya Foundation under the Patronage of HRH the Princess Mother” to develop careers for young women. She set up the “Rattanapa Women and Family Development Learning Center, Khonkaen Province” now under the Department of Women’s Affair and Family development (DWF). Providing vocational training for young women who lacked educational opportunities in 10 northeastern provinces. Mom Kobkaew’s involvement with Soroptimist International Bangkok was right from the start as a kindred spirited friend with several charter and early members. She was invited to attend our official functions , and accepted to be our first Honorary Member; always very supportive and ready to be a part of any fundraising projects, either to grace the event, to be its guest speaker, advisor or chairperson. With her graceful charm, smiling face and kind words to everyone, she will always remain with us with fond memories. The Lady who never said “No” to a good cause, the one and only Mom Kobkaew Abhakara Na Ayudhya. Reflection by her Secretary Khun Lada Ruthirakanok 7

Congratulations Message “ Congratulations to Club President Christiane Kitchakarn and SI Bangkok for 45 years of service and commitment to the local community” Nadime and Suwannee Salhani Family 8

? t? .................... “Congratulations to Club President Christiane Kitchakarn and Soroptimist International Bangkok for 45 years of service and commitment to the local community” .................... Chaowchai Jiemvijid 9

Co n g ra t u l a ti o n st t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t tttttttttttttttttt tt tt t Soroptimist International Bangkok on the 45th Anniversary. t tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt tt t I have been honored to be part of this sisterhood for the past 12 years with t t countless fond memories. t tt tt t One special event was the presence of President Yvonne Simpson of t t t t SWP Federation wearing the Korowai cloak at my installation. t tt t I look forward to being a part of Soroptimist International Bangkok t tt t for many years to come. t tt t )))))))))))))))))))) t tt tt t t10t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL BANGKOK FOUNDATION Advisors Police Major General Maleeratna Plomchitchom Jarunee Puongpianr Vibool Pakamas Board of Directors President Vice President Secretary Christiane Kitchakarn Sukanya Nimmanheminda Voralak Suwanvanichkij Treasurer Director Director 11 Sara Waramontri Mamta Bajaj Nippita Pukdeetanakul

Remarkable FRIEND & ADVOCATE Khunying Kanitha Wichiencharoen Another great woman leader of Thailand worthy of recognition was Khunying Kanitha Apart from sheltering, the project provided psychological and legal counsel, health Wichiencharoen who had become a great and supportive friend to SI Bangkok from the care and help to solve specific problems including family violence. This pioneering beginning too. She was very active in many organizations to promote movements to upgrade work inspired the state to set up their own shelters, but the EH under APSW still the status of women in Thailand. She inspired our awareness, advocacy and action for operates in parallel and up to now has provided services to more than 60,000 women women’s rights, health care and education. She frequented our functions and directed and children. us to help the Thai Nun Association with upgrading sanitary facilities, caregiving and During the last decade of her life, Kanitha ordained as a Buddhist nun and co-founded educational needs at the kindergarten in Prachinburi. Then when she was raising funds Mahapajabodi Buddhist College in rural Pakthongchai to provide further education to build a center for battered women and children, we took part in helping to accomplish for nuns and women. her goal. We were proud to be associated with her during some parts of her selfless life. With a law degree and a formal career initially with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, then In Memory of Khunying Kanitha Wichiencharoen USAID, Esso and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Kanitha increasingly engaged herself Reflection By her Daughter Khun Anik Amranand in various social works. At the Thai Women Lawyers Association she helped campaign for women’s equal rights and provide free legal advice to women. Later she co-founded the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women (APSW), for which she was the first Chair. Kanitha also co-founded the Princess Mother’s Charity Fund, for which she was the first secretary. Kanitha’s most well known work was the establishment in 1980 of an Emergency Home (EH) for Women and Children, after earlier piloting the project in her own house. 12

In Memory Of Rachani Kajiji Charter Member When I attended the annual “Soroptimist Fund Raising” While my mother was living gracefully with cancer, events, I experienced sincere dedication to help improve Jinee, Dawn, Christine, Helen, Jarunee and so many many lives as possible, regardless of difficulties, race and other Soroptimist family always took time to chatt religion. My mother, Khun Rachani, used to host Christ- with her, emailing her, visiting her with big smiles mas parties for her Soroptimist friends, and I was deeply and lots of laughter, giving her super-fun company. touched by how much she wanted me and my family to know everyone of her friends. Sometimes updating her about what activities were happening, always trying to keep her in the loop. My family and I always enjoyed ourselves, having a great Much more than that, which I will never forget, was time with the group of beautiful women who were so how much Jinee, Dawn and Christine took time to friendly, so down to earth, so connected, so respectful, support me and gave me strength and understanding, and so loving. I saw how much love and care they had for even after my Mum passed away. each other, warmth and true life-giving friendship with These little times, these little things, these little mem- one another. Those moments really touched my heart ories may not be significant to many, however to me, and I understood why my Mum always talked about Soroptimist is a family of angels. Soroptimist with glittering eyes. I felt the happiness in her heart when she was with you all. Reflection By her Daughter Zilika Maskati 13

SOROPTIMIST MAPPING THE DIGITAL INTERNATIONAL DIVIDE IN THE SCHOOL BANGKOK EDUCATION OF THAILAND IN COOPERATION WITH MINISTRY OF EDUCATION Representatives of the Soroptimist Foundation pay a courtesy call to the Minister of Education. Khunying Kanlaya Sophonpanich, Deputy Minister of Education, has authorized Ms. Christiane Kitchakarn from Soroptimist International Bangkok, along with Ms. Gita Sabharwal, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Thailand (UNRC), Ms. Atsuko Okuda, Director of the International Telecommunication Union of Asia-Pacific (ITU) and Ms. Geraldine Ansart, Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration (IOM) paid a courtesy call on December 21, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at Chulachomklao Meeting Room, 2nd Floor, Ratchawanlop Building of Ministry of Education There was discussion on how to reduce information technology inequality in education. On this occasion, UNRC and ITU presented research findings titled Mapping the Digital Divide in the School Education of Thailand, which was conducted to study the situation of access to information and communication technology networks among schools and communities in Thailand. analysis of inequality and make policy recommendations to be presented to senior management to formulate relevant policies. The issues of interest such as schools in the country can access the Internet only to find that more than 90 percent still have problems with the stability of the network. 14

Access to information technology at the school level is greater than at the community level. The lowest 20 percent of people in the lowest-income groups have less access to technology than others. On the issue of cooperation The Soroptimist International Bangkok Foundation is well equipped to support the Ministry of Education in both information technology and English language development in schools. Which at present the Foundation has taken steps to help support schools in some remote areas and intends to cooperate with the Ministry of Education in expanding such actions to help support the reduction of inequality in education. Which the Deputy Minister of Education considers that the actions of the Foundation it is useful for schools that are still in need and have difficulty accessing the Internet. Especially schools under the Office of the Basic Education Commission. It is a good opportunity for the Ministry of Education to cooperate with the foundation, to take various actions to reduce the disparities in information technology in education in the future. Summary/Arranged: Kotchakon Kattapan Asinde Supranee Khamyuang Cooperation group with international organizations Illustration: Pimchana Daratawat Reported by Foreign Information Group Office of Foreign Relations Information as of December 22, 2020 Website of the Original article http://www.bic.moe.go.th/index.php/news-movement-menu/2263-mapping-the-digital-22-12-2563 15

Congratulations- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -------------------- on the 45th Anniversary of SIB I am happy and honored to be member of Soroptimist International of Bangkok. ------------------------------------------------------------ 16

In Memory Of Past President JOANA Y.H. TCHEONG HO SIB PRESIDENT YEAR 1977 Miss. Marian Collington, PP of SIGBI and Chairman of their International Extension Committee, returned to Bangkok in 1977, to present SIB’s Charter to Mrs. Joana Ho, who was appointed Charter President of SIB, and to attend SIB’s Inauguration Dinner. Subsequently, Mrs. Joana Ho became the Charter In 1974, Miss Marian Collington, Past President of SI Dusit (SID) in 1981, the second SI Seen receiving the guests are the Bangkok President (PP) of SIGBI, and two Club in Thailand. Club President, Mrs Joana Y.H. Tcheong Ho other members, visited Bangkok as (left) and Miss Marian Collington. part of their trip to S.E. Asia to start a few new SI Clubs. Here they met One of the greatest honors in Mrs. Joana Ho’s role as Mrs. Joana Ho at a cocktail party in Bangkok. Miss Collington invited Mrs. Ho to the Charter President of both SIB and SID was her start the first SI Club in Thailand, namely the SIB Club. They met with Mrs. Ho a donation of money to HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, few more times before they returned to U.K. on behalf of SIB and SID in 1981. Before making her decision, Mrs. Ho looked at various ladies’ clubs in existence Special thanks to President Christiane Kitchakarn, our at that time. YWCA began in Thailand in 1949, The International Women’s Club dynamic SIB President of 2020-2021who initiated (IWC) was set up in 1964, and Zonta Club of Bangkok in 1970. Consequently, in this very worthwhile endeavour. And thanks you to PP 1975, Mrs. Joana Ho decided to set up SI Bangkok (SIB), a global, non-denomi- Sara for being SIB’s fantastic Archivist and Historian national, English-speaking club for professional women, to serve humanity (with as well as PP Sukanya and PP Sara. The two big pillars particular focus on women and children) under the auspices and guidance of SIGBI. of SIB-who have served and led SIB with much love, Mrs. Ho invited some of the top international business women in Thailand during devotion, and dedication, for the past 45 years. 1975-1977 to be the Charter Members of SIB, thus introducing the first SI Club The teamwork, dedication, talents, self-sacrifices, to Thailand. generosity, professionalism and high standards that you have all put into your social and charity project are very impressive indeed. Priscilla Turnbull, Federation President (right) presenting the Charter to Joana Y.H. Tcheong Ho, Charter president of the Dusit Club. Reflection By her Daughter Cecillia Ho (Jarunee Sathirangkul) 17

In Memory Of Past President FREDA RING LYMAN SIB PRESIDENT YEAR 1979 Freda Ring Lyman, then age 48, landed in Thailand in May 1949 with son in In July 1951, she and her husband, Albert Lyman, whom she married in 1927, tow (her daughter remained in Japan to finish high school) to join her husband, purchased the then British-owned 61-year-old Tilleke & Gibbins law firm, with then the first American lawyer to open a legal practice in Siam after WWII. USD 2,500 she loaned to her husband to close the deal. She would eventually work Freda was not a woman to sit at home and be a docile housewife. A career lawyer full time in the firm as its administration/operations officer, or “straw boss”, as Albert herself since 1921, she was a non-tiring woman of never-ending energy, dynamism would call her. and was a born organizer. In the interim, being aware of the world around her, Freda got busy co-chartering the Soroptimist International Club of Bangkok, the American Women’s Club of Thailand, the Toastmistress The Oriental Hotel was the family’s first Club of Thailand and co-founding the Foundation for the Welfare of the Crippled, engaging place of residence. The then owner, a in numerous charitable activities. Her rationale for pursuing these women-focused adventures French lady journalist, approached Freda to was “to get women, Thai and foreign, out of the house and involved in projects and activities train her cooks as to what hamburgers and to improve themselves or their communities”. other American foods were, and how to make Somewhere along the line Freda found time to be the Society Editor of an English language American style sandwiches. Freda designed the newspaper in Thailand. tins to bake the bread. From there she evolved In recognition of her organizational skills and her devotion to charitable endeavors, in 1961 into the hotel’s first post-war executive chef. HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great awarded Freda a royal decoration, the first foreign Freda established herself in the community as a woman to be so decorated by him. no-nonsense yet feisty lady who never lost her The passing of Albert in 1984 and Freda’s demise in 1986, just a few weeks shy of her 86th temper, was a gracious hostess, generous, selfless birthday, marked the end of an era. woman and a boss loved and admired by her staff. Contributed by David Lyman, son of Freda Ring Lyman 18

In Memory Of Past President Edith Stewart SIB PRESIDENT YEAR1984-1985 President Edith receiving the Gavel of the Office from Congratulation President Edith For Special Honor of IP President Arpornrat Ratanadaros the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire Fund Raiser Fashion Show Pakkred Home For Mentally Disabled Babies Guest Speaker Mr Pisit Na Pattalung of Wildlife Fund Thailand Khun Maleeratna congratulated President Edith Training School for Children and Young Adults for The Central Juvenile Court at Ban Pranee 19

In Memory Of Past President DR. SUMALEE PICHYANKURA SIB PRESIDENT YEAR 2000 Dr. Sumalee Pichyankura Associate Professor Chulalongkorn University, Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science SIGBI visit with President Elizabeth Harrison, meeting members from SIB and SID at an evening together Viewing artificial legs at the Foundation for Assistance of Disabled Children Activities for the year included : Continued support for AIDS prevention and care ; Recognizing that education is the key to the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children; Scholarships through the Department of Social Welfare; Focusing on Education and Training to Eliminate Contemporary Sales of Children; and the various efforts at Baan Fueng Fah at the Home for the Mentally Disabled Foundation Visiting Baan Fueng Fah at the Home for Mentally Disabled Foundation at Pakkred, Nontaburi Receiving Funds from the Cosmic Flute Foundation For members and guests to learn : A guest chef for education and training in efforts to eliminate demontrated Italian cooking secrets during a contemporary Child Slavery and Prostitution monthly meeting 20

In Memory Of Past President WANNAPORN BOONLERTVANICH SIB PRESIDENT YEAR 2008 A Unique Partnership Project : Climate Change DONATIONS, ACTIVITIES, SCHOLARSHIPS SIB teamed up with other organizations to produce brochures to encourage the public to save energy to reduce global warming. We have also produced cotton cloth bags with the theme “Save the World for Future Generations”. Chiang Rai outreach with school hygiene supplies, and clothing, Nanny support at Pakkred, Dental Clinic at Pakkred, Women Prisoners, Chiang Rai college students, Five O project with the Tsunami projects and Chiang Rai dormitories UPKEEP. SISWP Conference in Chiang Rai Handing over donations Sold cross stitich at the fair The donation was sent directly to Myanmar to buy rice, roof tiles, water and medicine in SIB and SISWP President visits SIB’s vendor table BEST PRACTICE AWARD Bogalay for Cyclone Nargis Victims Cross Stitch of Love - PROJECT 21

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Congratulation to President Christiane & Board of Directors for the 45th Anniversary of Soroptimist International Bangkok Kathleen Pokrud President Hong Kong Ladies’ Group & Member of SIB 23

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Soroptimist International Federations PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Soroptimist International South West Pacific President Sharon Fisher President Suman Lal Congratulations SI Bangkok on your 45th Anniversary. Congratulations on the 45th Anniversary of SI Bangkok. Soroptimist International believes in human rights and gender equality and through our I am delighted to be part of the celebration which is indeed a very auspicious and accreditation at the United Nations we work globally to influence policy and be a global historic moment knowing that SI Bangkok is the first club of Thailand. Over the years, voice for women. you have contributed in many ways to make a difference to the lives of many women For 100 years Soroptimist International clubs working in local communities have made and girls in Thailand. a difference in the lives of women and girls. Soroptimist clubs are best placed to address Your dedication and passion has been the key to the success of the club all these years. underlying inequalities by creating local projects to make a difference in the lives of So many women become members; they join to give service and support to transform women and girls. The theme of my biennium has been the Road to Equality, creating the lives of women and girls. This is exemplary and highly regarded. awareness through education and project impact stories about issues that are preventing Your projects and programs reflect the clubs strength in upholding the ideals of women and girls from reaching their full potential. Issues such as FGM, domestic Soroptimism and the foundation it has built. Further the joy of giving and achieving violence, trafficking, migration, child and forced marriage and the rights of older women projects of that magnitude is only made possible by your members. are all human rights violations that prevent equality for women and girls. As you move further into serving the community, may the Soroptimist International Thank you for all that you have done in your local community for 45 years to contribute mission and goals be continued and sustained by SI Bangkok members, with strong to the needs of women and girls; the heart of what all Soroptimist clubs do. With the commitment to friendship and service. dedication and commitment of clubs like yours in over 120 countries, we can educate, Support the Global Voice for Women and build a Brilliant Future. empower, and create enabling opportunities for women and girls and realize gender Have a joyous, happy and memorable 45th Anniversary celebrations! With warmest equality and human rights for all. regards. President Sharon Fisher President Suman Lal 25

Soroptimist International Federations PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland Soroptimist International Europe President Cathy Cottridge President Carolien DEMEY Sending you our warmest congratulations in this year of celebrations for Soroptimist Congratulations of your 45th year ‘s Anniversary International’s centenary and the forthcoming 45th anniversary of the Charter of SI As President of the European Federation I took office by 1st of October 2021 and it Bangkok. makes one humble to kick off a biennium in the middle of Centennial Celebrations. May you prosper in the years ahead, wishing you continued success in your work, What our ‘founding mothers’ achieved, exactly a hundred years ago, was outstanding improving the lives of women and girls in Thailand and beyond. and beyond challenging. My dream, a hundred years later, is still that each woman can make her own choices about her life, her education, her career, her body, the way she dresses, the way she con- tributes and stands in society…and this is what Soroptimist is still about. The entire world has entered a new era. From virtual we went to hybrid, starting a ‘new normal’ right now that isn’t that normal any longer. Let’s increase our chances to succeed in these times of transition. Let’s be inspired by our founders, a hundred years ago, who bounced back after war with far fewer resources than we have now. Together, we KNOW we CAN, let’s SHOW we can and do it NOW! I count on you all to embrace the next one hundred years in the challenging spirit of our founding mothers, pushing back boundaries. President Cathy Cottridge President Carolien DEMEY 26

Soroptimist International Federations PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Africa Soroptimist International America President Connie Mutunhu President Kazuko Morita I bring you greetings from over 2000 sisters across the continent of Africa. On behalf of Congratulation on SI Bangkok 45 Years of Journey ! I would like to convey my sincere the African Federation and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate SI Bangkok gratitude to celebrate your 45 Years Anniversary in the midst of our 100th of our Organization. on attaining 45 years in existence, 45 years of making a difference to women and girls Your club is now celebrating your Bright Past which is built up with your predecessors in Bangkok Communities and beyond. It is because of the great and visionary leadership with the mission based spirit to transform the lives of women and girls, and right this that SI Bangkok has continued to exist. Over a period of 45 years I am sure there has moment, you are making a giant leap forward with your amazing members who will been negative changes in climate, economy, and changes perhaps in the world pandemics carry us into the Brilliant future and beyond. affecting health, as we have now, which could have made you to give up this good work We must now stand strong with our feet and do what we cannot do alone to help ensure but you soldiered on. We look forward to celebrating the 45 years in the coming year. the future of Women and Girls into Brilliant future. As we celebrate 100 years of existence of Soroptimists, the African Federation is a year I admire that SI Bangkok is well acknowledged as one of the leading clubs in our organization and 3 months old. We are resolute to be advocates for the voiceless, and will strive to with many ideas based on the Soroptimist International vision and mission. empower and educate them to full emancipation. Your club activities which aligned with it’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging I urge you SI Bangkok to be the beacon of hope in your country as we sail through these with our Soroptimist mission are highly appreciated. tumultuous sea of challenges in the world economy! And I believe that your club is truly practicing for “Best for Women” in the past, now and beyond. Let us now work together, hand in hand, to fulfill our mission to improve the lives of Women and Girls and help them realize their dreams come true through education. President Connie Mutunhu President Kazuko Morita 27

Soroptimist National Representative REP’S MESSAGE Aimée Lefevre Lynn Ciurlions Kathy Barnett 2002-2003 2004-2006 2006-2010 Aimée had been one of Soroptimist International of As an expatriate in Thailand it was an enormous honour I felt so privileged to be there representing all the Dusit’s most supportive members ever since she first to represent Thailand Soroptimist at both Federation and different nationalities that live in Thailand. Thailand entered the Club after its inception in the mid 1980’s. International level. During this period Thailand moved is a very special place. Working alongside SI Bangkok When I entered the Club in 1997-98, she was one of the from the SIGBI Federation to The South West Pacific was a joy. I loved joining them on trips up to Chiang first to make me feel welcome. She was vice president Federation as we’re geographically more aligned to our Rai where they supported hill tribe schools and needle from 1998-99, then president from 1999-2000, and Asian and Pacific neighbours. From this privileged position work projects. I was part of their team. National Representative, during my term as president wonderful opportunities flowed. Not least was being from 2001-2002, and from 2002-2003, all of which were the delegate for SISWP to the Economic and Social I thank them for making me so welcome. beautifully carried out with grace and firm commitment. Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and Planning the conference, plus working with my own I found that I could always rely on her to provide wholesome representing all Soroptimists at UN meetings in Bangkok. club SI Dusit, all made my experience a journey of a and sage advice, on a wide range of topics, often given lifetime. with a touch of good humor. At this time Thailand was a small region with just two We were all shocked and saddened when she passed away clubs, however, due to the United Nations Asian and Pacific in 2005-2006 from cancer, for we had lost one of our Headquarters positioned in Bangkok and Thailand dearest friends. being a perfect holiday destination, we hosted many Tribute By talented and inspirational women from a vast array of Mom Bongkojpriya Yugala, international organisations. Soroptimist International of Dusit The National Representative role enabled me to observe 28 and work with many NGOs, service clubs and Not for Profits operating within Asia. A deeper understanding of the issues facing Thailand and our neighbours focused our volunteering, project work and advocacy.

Soroptimist National Representative REP’S MESSAGE Voralak Suwanvanichkij Mauragote Waramontri Mamta Bajaj 2010-2014 2014-2018 2018-2022 I held the position of National Representative for two terms, Congratulations SI Bangkok for 45 years of exceptional Congratulations, SI Bangkok, for 45 years of excellent with Margo stepping in as a proxy on several occasions work. work. With the SI focus, “Educate, Empower, Enable,” while I was on leave to take care of my newborn daughter. When the opportunity arose to become the National SIB continues to address issues such as gender disparity, “It has been a great honor to represent the Thai clubs at Representative attending the first meeting in Gold Coast, providing access to education, climate change, prevention the Federation level. Australia my view totally changed. NR was a prestige position of gender-based violence, and more; all of which are I learned a lot about the workings of SISWP, the history of and one’s really is the ambassador of one country. imperative in transforming our communities. service and Soroptimist, and the tremendous opportunities Those years of travelling to the conferences meeting with It has been an honour to be the National Representative our regional clubs afford to marginalized women and girls. like minded women from all of our federation, the con- of the Soroptimist clubs in Thailand, SI Bangkok and Together, we are a force for empowerment and advocacy, versations we shared to thought problems and insights on SI Dusit, at board meetings in Melbourne and Barossa Valley, to uplift people through the provision of skills, education, our projects and listen other country’s problem and how to now, online meetings and conferences. I have enjoyed and other means of support.” they approached to be eased, fixed or empowered, not just presenting the club projects and sharing an overview people they are helping, but also their own members. of Thailand’s socio-cultural and economic status with the The opportunity of becoming the National Representative SISWP federation, as well as collaborating with other clubs has humbled me and also created friendships that are sure within our federation. As NR, I have had many special to last a life time. moments, including getting to know members from across the world and carrying the Thai flag at the KL conference. I believe it takes an honest voice, a committed group, and collective action to create a healthier society. I am inspired by all members who have joined SIB through the years, making meaningful impact. Working to create unity and being a voice for the clubs in Thailand has been a privilege. 29

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Soroptimist International Friendship PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Kyoto-Tachibana Soroptimist International Osaka-Higashi President Akiko Hirosaki President Maki Fujihara One behalf of SI Kyoto-Tachibana, congratulation to 45 years anniversary of SI Bangkok Sincere congratulations to SI Bangkok of 45 years anniversary. with the bottom of my heart. It was our honour and appreciation that Ms Christiane Kitchakarn, present presi- SI Bangkok and SI Kyoto-Tachibana tied the Friendship Link on January 2000, since dent and Ms Keiko Hiranprueck from SI Bangkok attended our 30 years anniversary then we did many joint project with you. ceremony in February 2020. These are the main project : SI Osaka-Higashi tied Friendship Link with SI Bangkok in 1998. Since then we did : Renovated of toiler facility to primary school and donated playset to nursery in Chiang Rai. several joint projects with SI Bangkok : : Built a pavilion and planted trees for intellectually disable children in Pakkred. : Built toilet facility for Anuban Lang Lae School and Playset to nursery. : Built a dormitory for girls and boys of Huay Han Vittiyakom, Chiang Rai. : Built dormitory for girls at Cheng Muan Vittiyakom High School. I had most valuable experience when SI Bangkok and our members visited to attend : 2020 Sponsoring scholarship for nurse student,Ms Patarawadee Inkengeim for 4 years. for completion ceremony of dormitory at Huay Han Vittiyakom, Chiang Rai. There I : In Japan, SI Osaka-Higashi has been helping brass band club Yuhigaoka High School. learned real Soroptimist Spirit of Precious and Joy of Serving for Better Society. : Donation for Blood Donation center, Earthquake sufferors, Narcotic Elimination and This experience impressed me immensely. Audio-visual Handicapped facilities. This remain with me for a long time. 3 of our members attended 36 years anniversary ceremony of SI Bangkok in 2013. We hope we can keep this valuable Friendship Link for long time. We service for a better society with Soroptimist Spirit. Please let us know if there is new good project. We hope to continue and provide prosperity to SI Bangkok and members. Wishing prosperity of SI Bangkok and health and happiness for all members. President Akiko Hirosaki Members President Maki Fujihara Members 32

Soroptimist International Friendship PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Toyohashi-Port Soroptimist International of San Fransico President Keiko Shiga President Sonia Gómez-Rexelius Congratulations to all Sisters in SI Bangkok for your 45th anniversary from the bottom The members of Soroptimist International of San Francisco would like to say of my heart. “CONGRATULATIONS” to you and your members for improving the lives of women After concluding the Friendship Link signed in 2014, thanks to Keiko sister in SI Bangkok, and girls for the past 45 years! we have been continuing to interact with each other. We know first-hand the effort it takes to achieve this milestone and we look forward to For the first time, when a couple of our sisters participated in your “Fundraising”, they were our continued partnership with SI Bangkok, and Soroptimist worldwide as we work so surprised and impressed by the gorgeous magnificent fundraising. diligently to provide women and girls with access to the education and training they In 2015, we could complete the joint project by 4 clubs SI Bangkok, SI Kyoto-Tachibana, need to achieve economic empowerment. Job well done! SI Osaka-Higashi and SI Toyohashi-Port. Congratulations Soroptimist International of Bangkok on your 45-year Anniversary! It was the first international joint project for our club. We were very impressed that we could help Thai children by repairing the toilets in the nursery school and elementary school in Chiang Rai and donated the playset. I would like to continue to work with a global point of view through the interaction with SI Bangkok. I hope that the Friendship Link will continue for many years to come. We pray for your continued success. President Keiko Shiga The Team President Sonia Gómez-Rexelius 33

Soroptimist International Friendship PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Great Yarmourth Soroptimist International Lugano President Kristina Seabert President Elena Bittante SI Great Yarmouth send greetings to SI Bangkok. Greetings to Soroptimist Bangkok, and congratulations for the 45 years of club activity We cherish our friendship connections around the world and admire both your Programme from your friends in SI Lugano. Action work in the community and your fundraising activities especially during these We are happy and honoured to be linked in Friendship with you and hope to welcome difficult circumstances. your members to Lugano, should they be passing by. Congratulations on your achievements and we wish you well as you continue to make a May your club be active and vibrant for at least another 45 years. difference. SI Great Yarmourth Members SI Lugano Members 34

Soroptimist International Friendship PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Newcastle Soroptimist International Boyana President Christine Tomkins President Svetla Lancheva I am delighted to take this opportunity to congratulate SI Bangkok on this anniversary. It is our pleasure and honour to congratulate you for your 45 Anniversary. Many of our members have happy memories of meeting with President Christiane. The start of our Friendship is during hard times, but we are even more excited to work We have been involved with President Christiane for several years, in 2018 she presented together for upgrading our leadership talent and increase the impact on women and girls. our club with ‘New Start’ bags for trafficked women. Based on our collaboration up today we are looking very much to exchange more ideas SI Newcastle is looking forward to furthering our inter club friendship and projects for a long-term lasting Friendship. SI Newcastle upon Tyne is the oldest club in the Region of Northern England. Please have our wishes for successful work together as a worldwide voice for advancement Our charter President, Miss Edith Base, held an inaugural meeting on 10th March of the status of women. 1937and we received our Charter on 10th November 1937. We really hope to have the opportunity to be part of your celebration next year. President Christine Tomkins SI Newcastle Members and P. Christiane SI Boyana Members 35

Soroptimist International Friendship PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International Madurai Soroptimist International Albany President Anitha Rajarajan President Bronwyn Lyons It gives me great pleasure to write these few lines to you as you prepare to bring out a On behalf of the members of SI Albany I extend our greetings for your 45th birthday souvenir to mark the 45th anniversary of your club. Anniversary My heartiest Congratulations to each one of your club members and my best wishes It is a great achievement and we look forward to viewing the celebrations on Facebook. for your continued success. You have had a long innings and we at SI Madurai are very I understand the friendship was initiated some years ago when our past member Denise happy to have a friendship link with your club. Smithson met several of your members at a Federation Conference. Soroptimist is the most beautiful gift one woman can give another- you bring change It took a while for the Friendship Link to be formalized and appear in the SISWP website not only by the work you do- but through Soroptimism- a chance to give, to grow and Friendship Link section. graduate to seeing the world through the eyes of sorority. Wishing you and your club members great milestones in all your endeavors and hoping that we all get to see each other very soon. In friendship President Anitha Rajarajan Members President Bronwyn Lyons and Members 36

? Congratulations ? Joana Ho’s Family Photo And Sincere Thanks To Taken In Thailand In 1960 The Soroptimist International Club Of Bangkok (SIB) Seated: Joana Ho. Standing L-R: Cecilia, Job Ho and Jacob On Their 45th Anniversary “Jasper: Small Boy Standing On Extreme Right, in The Foreground.” And For Having Carried Out The Dreams Of Mrs. Joana Ho - Charter President Of SIB (Bangkok Club) In 1977 & SID (Dusit Club) In 1981. FROM Joana Ho’s Family CHILDREN: Jacob Jasper, Joel & Cecilia Ho (Jarunee Sathirangkul). GRANDCHILDREN Suvimol Sathirangkul, Vipavee Sathirangkul, Jamorn & Andrena Ho, Jirote Ho, Jason & Allison Ho And Jasmine Ho. CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES TO SIB FROM The FSI Charity Group Founder President Cecilia Ho (Jarunee Sathirangkul), 37

Soroptimist International NGO PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Hong Kong Ladies’ Group Intl Womens Club President Kathleen Pokrud President Rani Narula On this auspicious occasion of the 45th Anniversary of Soroptimist International Bangkok, Congratulations to the Soroptimist International Club of Bangkok for completing 45 the Hong Kong Ladies’ group wishes to extend our heartfelt congratulations on this years in Thailand of commendable service and worldwide friendship. significant milestone. This record of all the contributions of all the past presidents whose leaderships enabled We are certain that Soroptimist International Bangkok have worked tirelessly to achieve the club to make life better for the underprivileged and the advancement of human what would not have been possible without hardship and determination throughout the rights. years. On behalf of The International Women’s Club of Thailand one of the oldest International As both of our organizations are international ladies’ groups based in Bangkok, striving Clubs established in 1964, we are delighted to wish you continued success in all your to help the needy throughout Thailand and women empowerment, Hong Kong Ladies’ achievements. Group wishes for the continuous success of Soroptimist International Bangkok for many more years to come. President Kathleen Pokrud Members President Rani Narula 38

Soroptimist International NGO PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE BTCC Social (The Brazilian Association in Thailand) Zonta President Claudia Gomes President Lalivan Karnchanachari It is an honor to congratulate for the 45th anniversary, the splendid and committed Since 1977 your club has contributed to numerous projects which helped support and members from Soroptimist International Bangkok. It represents the work of many improve the lives of many women and girls. It is inspiring to hear and read of your engaged in helping women and girls to have an equal voice, expanding their individual work in education, creating opportunities and empowering women and girls throughout and collective potential. The world needs you and only benefits from your existence. the decades. Zonta International, which is an organisation that I have been a part for Receive our heartiest gratitude for being this incredible community and for all your almost 22 years, also supports this very same cause. We understand the importance of accomplishments. improving the status of women worldwide. It is such a great comfort to know that there are clubs like yours who commit to this wonderful cause and have sustainably done so for 45 years. This is truly a great and wonderful achievement. Now, your club also commits to Climate Change Initiatives, which is an important and urgent matter of the world we live in. To this I sincerely congratulate and thank President Christiane Kitchakarn, past and present presidents, executive committees and members for your commitment, passion and devotions to your work to make the world a better place. Members President Lalivan Karnchanachari Members 39

Soroptimist International NGO PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Soroptimist International of Dusit Golden Years President June Khazi President Beverly Frankel Soroptimist International of Dusit (SID) sends our congratulations to our sister club, Golden Years wishes Soroptimist International of Bangkok continued success in Soroptimist International of Bangkok (SIB) on the occasion of your 45th anniversary. supporting human rights goals for helping women and children in their communities. It has been our pleasure to work beside you, sharing the goals of Soroptimists to Golden Years group was formed in 2017 as a seniors group for retirees to learn about empower and support girls and women to reach their potential and to haves a voice what’s here in Bangkok/Thailand for support in our old age. in their communities. Our SID club is focused on giving educational scholarships to girls in rural Thailand; We have a monthly Speaker Program on topics, such as financial planning, health our funds are raised mainly in our annual charity, “The Home and Garden Tour”. We have insurance, immigration issues, legal wills and health directives, brain and body exercises, worked happily with you in SIB over the years supporting many joint projects together. nutrition. We visit retirement communities, have computer training sessions to update Wishing you many more years of successful endeavours and continuing the pleasure of skills, and enjoy outings around Bangkok. sisterhood together. Our social get-togethers include: Book Club, Creative Writers Group, Sports Day, Volunteers Group, and leisure tours exploring Bangkok. President June Khazi Members President Beverly Frankel 40

Soroptimist International NGO PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Rotary Club of Bangkok D.A.CH. Rotary Club of Bangkapi President Amir R. Sinai President François Van den Bosch On the occasion of the 45h Anniversary of the Soroptimist International Bangkok, the I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate your club on its 45th anniversary Rotary Club of Bangkok D.A.CH. extends its sincere congratulations to your members, and also on the 100th anniversary of Soroptimist International. both in Thailand and around the world. Until recently, I didn’t know that the roots of Soroptimist can be connected with Rotary. We congratulate your organization’s achievements to date, especially the vital mandate Thanks to President Christiane for this meaningful information. to bring the most important issues affecting women’s lives to the attention and focus Between your club and our club - the Rotary Club of Bangkapi, there has always been of politics and society as a whole. warm relationships. We have also proved that clubs with different background can work The Rotary Club of Bangkok D.A.CH. pledges its continuous support to Soroptimist together in a harmonious way. International Bangkok in your mission to empower women and girls and transform When attending your lunch meetings, I always felt very welcome and enjoyed the their lives for the better. atmosphere at your club. I also had the opportunity to go on a field trip with you of May the next 45 years be even more successful and rewarding. which I still keep very good memories. With warm wishes and best regards, I do hope that in the near future, when the corona pandemic is more under control, The Board and Members of the Rotary Club of Bangkok D.A.CH. we can strengthen our ties and work together. We shall continue to meet in this fantastic friendly way. Wishing everyone in the club lots of success in achieving its goals. President Amir R. Sinai President François Van den Bosch 41

Soroptimist International NGO PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Expat Life in Thailand Rotary Club of Bangkok President Nick Argles President Vasana Mututanont Expat Life in Thailand and Nick Argles are pleased to congratulate Christiane and the honorable members of Soroptimist Bangkok in achieving their 45th anniversary this year. The Rotary Club of Bangkok (RCB) wishes to extend heartfelt congratulatory wishes There are many international women’s groups in Thailand but I have always personally to the Soroptimist Club of Bangkok on its 45th anniversary. We are aware of SI regarded Soroptimist worldwide and in particular the chapter in Bangkok for doing so Bangkok’s values on education and community services and the way it serves local much more for charitable causes. communities, particularly with respect to nursing scholarships. SI Bangkok showcases In difficult times, it is always charitable donations that get cut first, closely followed by women in leadership roles selflessly creating educational opportunities for students advertising and marketing budgets but Christiane and her board and the happy group of who will be ready, willing, and able to make their own positive impact upon graduation. members always seem to go the extra mile. This is sustainable contribution at its best. Congratulations on making a difference I have always felt honored to be invited to their luncheons to witness their acts of selfless in peoples’ lives for 45 years. kindness and care for others less fortunate. Long may it continue - here’s to the next 45 years! Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see. President Nick Argles President Vasana Mututanont 42

CEO MESSAGE Congratulation to President Christiane and Executive Committee Bumrungrad Hospital is pleased to applaud the dedicated members of for the 45th year anniversary of Soroptimist International Bangkok. Soroptimist International Bangkok on their 45th Anniversary in Thailand. You and sister organizations around the world have helped more than ten Drager Thailand is proud to be part of SI Bangkok, who are the voices thousands to improve the livelihood of underprivileged women and girls for women and girls, and who have supported the community for the by providing them with education and skills to become a productive past 45 years. member of society. Bumrungrad Hospital is proud to be a sponsor of the Nursing Scholarship and Climate Change action programs. These programs will help propel Thailand towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030. We are fortunate to have volunteer organizations such as Soroptimist Inter- national Bangkok and long may you continue to work for the betterment of Thai society. Kuakool Banpech Artirat Charukitpipat Managing Director at Chief Executive Officer Dräger Thailand & Myanmar 43

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF DUSIT It has been our pleasure to work beside you since our beginning in 1982, giving support on many joint projects, and sharing the goals of Soroptimists to empower and support women and girls to reach their potential and have a voice in their communities. Since 2000, our SID club has focused mainly on giving 100+ educational scholarships to girls in rural Thailand, in areas of Nakorn Ratchasima (Korat), Sa Kaeo, Umphang(Tak), and many others. 44

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF DUSIT Soroptimist International of Dusit is well known in the community for its annual Home and Garden Tour, the club’s main fund-raising event for our scholarships The homes have been on embassy grounds, heritage palaces, noble homes, architect residences, artists galleries and private gardens. We thank Tokyo/Hiroo Soroptimist Club and Haikaido/Tajima Club who have donated to our scholarship project every year since 1998 and 2001, respectively. We wish you many more years of successful endeavors and look forward to continuing the pleasure of our sisterhood together. 45

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Alisara Weeraboonchai necessary items .and helped to build sanitary units for the children. This project and others were introduced to SIB by Khunying Kanitha Wichiencharoen, a lawyer, well known for her role in campaigning to revise and amend laws to provide better protection for women and children in Thailand. 1979 Khunying Kanitha’s influence on social services to empower women and eliminate Alisara was an entrepreneur with a heart violence against women and girls was of gold. Despite very busy schedules, she invaluable starting with opening her managed to join the first group of ladies to home as a rescue shelter. Another effort set up Soroptimist International Bangkok was an individual donation to the rubber Club. She contributed lots of her time tree plantations and tin mining in Southern and financial support to SIB’s various Thailand that were witnessed, as under charitable projects for many years. duress due to climate conditions. Alisara graciously opened her home many times to entertain Global SIB visitors many on their way to Hong Kong and the new SISWP in Australia and for fun intimate evening and fund raising events. Her first effort was to have SIB support Reflection by Charter Member Sukanya Nimmanheminda nuns running a small kindergarten in Prachinburi area which was vulnerable to insurgents along the Thai-Cambodia bor- ders. During frequent visits we provided them with food, clothing, and other 46

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Betty Avery 1980 to which we donated teaching materials, medicines, vitamins, play items, food and clothing. For the December Club Meeting we invited the blind children to join us to sing Christmas carols and we treated them to gifts, a lunch and ice cream too. Gave support to Khunying Kanitha, coordinator for the Lawyer’s Association, to promote fund raising appeals to establish a permanent women’s shelter. We participated in our service as Individual Soroptimists and as the Club as ONE. Our fund raising was done modestly through donations of funds and goods as needed. Betty will always be remembered for her calm resolve, patience and clarity in her minutes and meetings. She showed great diplomacy and respect with our senior charter members at our meetings. Our diverse membership was 32 members + Mom Kob Kaew who officially became our Honorary Member. During this term we continued with Awareness, Advocasy and Action guided by the SI Positions which covered our efforts to : Soroptimen Bill, Siragit and Mom Kob Kaew with VIP guests Support 2 Buddhist nuns managing a Reflection by Charter Member Sara Waramontri small kindergarten of about 70 children 47

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Sukanya Nimmanheminda 1981 International; even the name sounded a bit strange. However, its values and How time flies! objectives sounded very worthwhile. Unbelievable it’s been 46 years since I decided to join thinking possibly I could Mrs. Joana Ho called and invited me to always disappear. We got very busy at that a coffee meeting. She was rather insistent time to set up the by laws and I became that I could not refuse her as at that time involved and fascinated by the efficiencies my connections with expat ladies in Bangkok and dedications of all the ladies including were a bit limited and I considered myself the expatriates from several countries. as being at a junior level. Anyway, the Being together as service minded women, meeting went rather well, being with I learned a lot concerning attitudes and several ladies who were probably bewil- humanitarian feelings. dered like myself upon hearing about an After serving 4 years on the Executive international professional women’s service Committee, I was honored to have started club in Hong Kong called Soroptimist SI Bangkok’s tradition of holding the position of President for 2-year terms, in order to bring continuity to and strengthen the efficacy of our charitable endeavors. 48

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Sukanya Nimmanheminda 1982 We continued with our endeavors, guided by the principles of Awareness, Advocacy I was most appreciative when Mrs. Simone Pierrat, a Soroptimist from Monaco who was and Action within 6 Program Areas: Health, Education, Human Rights and Empowerment, a world-famous cellist, stopped by a few times on her way to play concerts in Japan. She Status of Women, Environment and Disaster Relief and Good Will and Understanding. demonstrated a true Soroptimist spirit by offering to help free of charge in our fundraising To expand a bit of the worth while efforts accomplished during this 2 years term. efforts. Our own members also participated in their own different ways to play the big We supported The Leprosy Foundation (New Life Foundation) under Royal Patronage in parts in raising funds for our various endeavours as well as strengthening our fellowship Chiang Mai. Some members kindly devoted their Saturday mornings to read the Thai spirits. All in all, these were busy but productive and enriching two years! English dictionary to students at the School for the Blind Foundation in Bangkok Well, it seemed that my being a Soroptimist continued to be a part of my life as I stayed enabling them to type braille for their studies. on being involved permanently. I had the chance to represent Thailand at two SIGBI Additionally, our club continued to sponsor two nuns to run a kindergarten/daycare Conferences, during which I got to know many interesting and dedicated women adding center for 60-70 children in Prachinburi as well as looking after hygiene for their facilities. to my education in social works. I have very much appreciated all the efforts involved in We continued to work with the Women Lawyers Association of Thailand under the Royal being with SIB and the fellowship among the sisters which really added value to my life. Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen and the Status of Women Promotion Group to I thank Mrs. Joanna Ho for introducing me to this greatest Soroptimist International help raise funds to build needed facilities as an Emergency Home for victims of abused World in the first place. women as well as for troubled children. When disasters occurred in the country, we cooperated with government agencies to lend our helping hands. Maleeratna, Sukanya, Mr. Kajiji, Ratchani Kajiji, Arpornrat and Nancy. Sukanya, Yubol, Joanna Ho at the back. 49

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