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Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Apornratna Ratanadaros president. I am grateful to Soroptimist friends who gave so much support for the charity work during my term. May I send my warmest wishes to them all. 1983 I hope that we are still proud of our successful fund raising activities and Congratulations on the 45th anniversary cherish their memories. Such as greeting of Soroptimist International Bangkok! a renowned pianist and an eminent Monacan Soroptimist Cello player, both who performed for our Club, as well as memories of our potluck dinners hosted by members too. I am extremely delighted to learn that some of my Soroptimist friends remain actively involved with the Club’s activities. As SIB members, we deserve to be very proud of each and every one of the Club’s accomplishments through these 45 years. May I wish SIB further success in the years ahead. It is with my great pleasure to join the Apornratna handing gavel to Edith Stewart President and Soroptmist friends in the Freda, Yubol, Mom Kob Kaew, Edith S, Apornratna, Sara and Maleeratna celebration of the Club’s long establishment in Thailand, its continued contribution to local communities and the wonderful friendship among members. I was invited to join Soroptimist Inter- national by a dear friend, the late Khun Prasarnsiri Samakkachan and was given an honor to become the Club’s 6th 51

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE SARA WARAMONTRI life-starting and raising a family; yes two Monthly Meetings daughters, (Mauragote and Rojanard), creating businesses and volunteering time and expertise to serve. As a charter member, after being witness Toby Kambhu sharing Community Services Business meeting reviewing activities to and hands on during the Club’s efforts for our first 9 years, leadership happened! Going forward with Business Meetings updating ongoing efforts, initiating others and speakers that inspired: 1986 Updates: Prachinburi School and Five-O Dr Chatsuman shared women’s possibilities at our 1987 meeting and she then realized being project too, Baan Pranee Secondary School Venerable Dhammananda Bhikkhuni in 2005 Co-founder of an Architectural and Interior scholarships with Welfare Department design practice, a crafts and designers’ retail visits to Pakkred Baby Home and use of shop and a fabric work shop. Sala, Emergency Home and Relief Fund During SIGBI president’s 2000 visit, she and others, co-hosting guest evenings delightfully met SIB’s youngest member. at Members’ homes, networking and I overheard her ask “When did you become raising funds at Community Services a Soroptimist?” and Mauragote’s immediate and Simone perform at the AUA reply was “before I was born”. A new experience: Visit of SI President I too had been one of the youngest in Ms Sadun to meet SIB and SID. SIB 1977 thus these words touched me as accompanied her to the Foreign Ministry acknowledgement of Soroptimist’s values and met the official re: Refugees and took and objectives affecting all levels of my a days boat ride up and down the River visiting wild life preserves to experience our conservation focus. A get to know you luncheon, Welcome to Thailand 52

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE SARA WARAMONTRI 1987 My daughters started joining their Dad, a Trustee Collaboration with WFT creating Awareness. advocacy and Action of Wildlife Fund Thailand, for the weekend conser- vation excursions. Soon after I picked up the Sunday Bidding on Sripach Hyundai watercolor CWL Meeting With Wildlife Fund Thailand V.P. Bangkok Post and saw a picture of my youngest daughter, Rojanard, and reading further found out her Evening details with Pisit and Mechai Conservation first hand concern for the Environment. Subsequent issues followed featuring her as spokesperson for Conservation at the tender age of 7 along with her sister aged 9, inspiring the focus of the Club for 1986-87. SPECIAL EVENTS SIB and SID collaborated for our first CWL by presenting a Cultural Tourist multi screen show “Land of Smiles”- along with a poignant Conservation film “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”. We feel these two issues, children’s welfare and conservation are dependent one upon the other. If it is true that today’s children are the hopes of tomorrow then if they are taught conservation and love for nature it will be instilled in them for life. Then we followed this up in 1987 with a Fundraising event, “An Evening with Mechai” the honorary chairperson of Wildlife Fund Thailand at the Population Development Council. Generosity and Gratitude moved us through the first years and continues. NOW and our BRIGHT FUTURE 53

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Patamaka Sukontamarn 1988 I’m keeping us more like “Family, we are at ease and Simplicity” Continuation Club Support for : Prachinburi School Baan Pranee Scholarship Secondary School School for the Blind Pakkred Baby Home Emergency Home and Relief Fund 54

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Patamaka Sukontamarn 1989 Birthday Ladies Monthly Meeting 9 SI Past Presidents meet for a lovely Lunch to Honor the Past 55

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Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Maleeratna Plumchitchon INSTALLATION AWARENESS ISSUES GUEST SPEAKERS 1990 Members as guest speakers sharing their experience Visitor from SI Akashiya Sapporo Japan with SI Bangkok and SI Dusit Members I was very happy and honored to be elected as president of SIB. I was with Siam Commercial Bank and had been involved with many social activities with other leading organizations of mostly Thai nationals. This however had me working with many ladies from several nationalities and different cultures, and this proved to be a challenge. Yet in time we all benefited from our pursuits of the objectives of service as we bonded as sisters and friends at our meetings. 58

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Maleeratna Plumchitchon cultivation, sewing and dressmaking, EDUCATION AND HEALTH and primary health care. - A foundation caring for the infected and educating how to avoid contracting the disease, as AIDS was a major disease among many of the population - A nanny and helping at the dental Support care giving and teaching children with in-service training clinic for disabled children and its community improvements. 1991 - Advocating the needs for the emergency shelter for battered women as inequality SIB’s efforts were the continuation of of women rights and the oppression of support including on site visits, women was still very high donations and/or updates for : - Needs of 2 Nuns in a Prachinburi We enjoyed many fellowship functions sanctuary where about 70 children were and educational sessions for our members fostered with care giving and learning. and guests as well. - Engagement with a Five-O project in Prachinburi developed by the Thai Donation to AIDS Foundation Support health care-Dental Clinic Association of University Women to assist with in-service training for Fund Raising for EVAW teachers and students about consumer education and nutrition, vegetable 59

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Asha Sehgal sponsor and donated generously to the event. We supported and visited the Pakkred Home of handicapped orphans. It was a soul stirring experience as we played with the young children. For me personally this has been a great learning ground and a place where I have met with and made wonderful friends and participated in memorable events. We have made a few overseas trips to other Soroptimist events and interacted with their clubs. 1992 I owe my wonderful years in Soroptimism to my two precious friends, Sukanya and Maleeratna, the two ladies who were with me in the Toastmistress Club. I was elected President in 1992, after Maleeratna fulfilled two terms and before Edith Punt took over. I had a most fulfilling year inviting great guest speakers and arranging a Combined Women’s fund raising event with SID which we called ROMANCE. John Nuovo sang for us and Rani Narula was crowned as the Queen of ROMANCE resplendent in her lovely pink saree. Bridget Maier of BMW was our chief 60

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Edith Punt INSTALLATION OF EDITH PUNT welcoming Honorary Member, Mom Kob Kaew, to preside Mom Kob Kaew (center) and Edith Punt (back row 4th from the left) SIB and SID joint dinner with European Soroptimists New member, Zoe’s, induction by IPP Asha Sehgal 1993 Congratulations on the 45th anniversary of Soroptimist International Bangkok! Mom Kob Kaew receive a bouquet from IPP Asha Sehgal Joan Banks, visiting VIP guest, introducing Simone Pierrat’s at Goethe Institute recital Guest speaker travel journalist, Steve Van Beek, guest speaker being thanked by Program Director, Rosemary 61

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Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Yubol Lyman organized her first SIB social support with a luncheon for the blind children. She also organized two one-day trips for homeless women who lived in the govern- ment supported homes in Patumthani. The first trip was to see the water world show and wild life tour at Suan Safari World. The other was a day trip to Suan Nong Nuch and Pattaya beach. Everyone enjoyed these trips and Yubol’s home made sweets ! A Reflection by Member Jarunee Puongpianr 1994 She also organized delightful social evenings for the members in her home and hosted PP Yubol and I are close as I was her a day workshop demonstrating Taoist Term secretary. Preparing her installation philosophy related to women’s sexuality. luncheon party together with ex-SIB member, A Reflection by Member Sara Waramontri Khun Sitra Pansomboon, we experienced a nutritious Macrobiotics menu. She is well known for her Thai and Western PP Yubol Lyman passed away during the cooking skills and shared her delightful production of this book. SIB Members sweets every time she organized day trips extend their condolences to her family. and outings. As she was a committee member of the Thailand Association of the Blind she 63

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Keiko Hiranpruech 1995 Monthly Meeting Guest Speaker Dr Chaiskran topic Gender Equality Guest Speaker Mrs Sitra Topic Good Health with Food Charity Bazaar Shop Till You Drop I am most honoured and proud to be During the period of two years, our a member of SI Bangkok. Throughout main focus was to try and help improve my years within this club, I have made the quality of life of those underprivi- friendships that turned into sisterhood, leged. Our main projects were, hiring and I am grateful to the like minded 2 nurses to take care of the infants at people I have met through this club. Pakkred Home for Disabled Children, When I first joined the club, I never this project has now been going on for thought I would be the president, and 20 years. Our next project was our work I definitely didn’t think I would be for with Mr Mechai, in our efforts to help two years, but I had great support from those living with AIDS, and finally we my sisters and to me that was what contributed to making artificial legs for made my presidency possible. free distribution to those who needed it. Members Meeting 64

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Keiko Hiranpruech 1996 President Keiko and Members With guest speaker Dr Surin Pitsuwan Members Meeting and Russian Ambassador Mr Oleg Bostorin Instalation Night We had a very enjoyable Fund Raising Bazaar that was made possible with the help of Rani, Sara and Jinee. Towards the end of my presidency some of the SI Japanese club contacted me and wanted to create a Friendship Link. I was very happy that I was able to make this possible with Osaka-Higashi in 1998, Kyoto-Tachibana in 2000 and Toyohashi-Port in 2014. We had some successful projects together, and it has always amazed me the international reach of Soroptimist. Last but not least, I would like to thank President Christiane, Sara and Jinee for their endless effort and dedication to make this book. I am so privilege to be with such warm- hearted sisters. Visitors from SI UK at Polo Club 65

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Maleeratna Plumchitchon Also the S.I.A.M project widened education concerning HIV and sex trade to all walks of lives in Chiang Rai. PDA’s Education and vocational training was crucial to preventing sex trafficking and upgrading their physical and mental quality of life. We advocated for the Emergency Home AIDS Awareness International Bazaar AIDS International Bazaar VIP as it furthered its expansion as a shelter of Members attending AIDS International Bazaar safety and recovery. It provided much needed caregiving, Celebrating with 6th President, Edith Stewart’s, MBE training and education for women and girls to overcome abuse and sufferiing. 1997 Our efforts, such as Pakkred nanny spon- sorship and other community projects My second term as president was another were sustained by individual and Club of pride and honor. donations and joint collaborations Our support continued enabling facilities offering uplifting sustainable education It was a very fun and fruitful year of S.I.A.M project to eliminate HIV/AIDS and Sex Trade and subsistent means for those in need. sisterhood and efforts for our good deeds. To contend with HIV/AIDS issue, SIB We were a wonderful team. collaborated with TBCA, to educate about awareness and protection from the This time was less difficult thanks to experience disease. This was a country wide effort with satisfactory results. 66

Soroptimist International Bangkok 1998 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Rani Narula I was elected club president of Soroptimist International of Bangkok. It was a very We represented the spirit of sharing, creative eventful year, we accomplished much. philanthropy, and drew on our rich cultural The highlight was THAI FASHION heritage and the glory of Thailand. THROUGH THE AGES. It was an honor A show of such magnitude was possible for me to co-host this magnificant event thanks to the contribution and combined with the Soroptimist Dusit as our Annual talents of Acharn Smitthi Siribhadra, Joint Women’s Charity Luncheon. Bureau of Crown Property, Nagara, Jim Our fashion show featured breathtaking Thompson Silk, KUDO and more. Thai costumes from the Sukhothai Era to Charities included: the early 20th Century to modern Thai · Physically & Mentally Challenged silk. Children’s Home, Pakkred · Nannies and Dental Program · Foundation for Artificial Legs for Disabled Children · Ban Toey School, Ubon · SIGBI’s S.I.A.M. Project · TBCA Aids After the showcase, I was fortunate to represent SIB & SID at the Federation Conference of Great Britain & Ireland. It was a meaningful experience where I was very warmly greeted. However, the UK Federation comprises primarily of the Commonwealth countries. We share neither proximity nor common issues. Upon my return I brought up the issue of changing the Federation to the SISWP. As a result, we became a part of the SISWP. These efforts were fulfilled because of the loving support and hard work of all my Soroptimist Sisters. 67

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Soroptimist International Bangkok 1999 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Netra Ruthaiyanont I joined Soroptimist International Bangkok (SIB) in 1995 upon the Disabled. We organized regular luncheon invitation of Mrs. Keiko Hiranpruech talks given by interesting guest speakers when she was serving as SIB President. who spoke on women related issues as Four years later in 1999, I was invited well as other socially significant topics. to serve as SIB President myself, after For our annual fundraiser, we organized President Mrs. Rani Narula. “Hawaiian Night”, the first of our Dinner During my term, we supported many Dance Fundraisers. From then on, SIB worthy causes and participated in various continued to hold dinner dance fundraisers social activities for the betterment of for many years to come. After my presidency, womankind. SIB supported educational I continued to actively assist the club scholarships, sponsored a nanny and a in their projects including the opening limb maker at Pakkred Home for the of toilets for Schools in Chiang Mai, building 70 a library in a school in Nonthaburi and visiting the women’s prison to teach cooking. I also put together newsletters to keep our members and friends informed about SIB activities. SIB is a good example of how important it is for women to support one another, and when we women work as a team, we can help women make their dreams come true. I made many friends through SIB, many of whom I have continued to keep in touch with even after they left Thailand.

Soroptimist International Bangkok 2001 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Julie Mehta The year 2001, was a milestone. It was the momentous year of my Presidency Add to that the strong support of close of SI Bangkok. associates from Cosmic Flute Foundation, It was a felicitous and productive time of National Museum Bangkok and The Oriental fundraising for charities that were in urgent Hotel Bangkok. need of fiscal aid. The combination of my Highlights include : passion for art, dance culture and literature, - The multi-tiered collaborations made it buoyed by an exceptional committee of possible for us to support and contribute hard-working, smart women of substance significantly to the Pakkred Orphanage, the and vision, made for a most successful year. Chiangmai education for girls programme I found myself encouraged, humoured, and and the Gala dinner for the launch of my championed by a cache of wise and powerful book Dance of Life : the Mythology, History women. and Politics of Cambodian Culture, in collaboration with BMW Thailand. Three hundred guests were treated to unforgettable gastronomic delights and classical Khmer dance with members of the Royal Cambo- dian Ballet flown in by the Government of Camabodia, at The Regent Hotel. This was enhanced with the donation of five computers to the University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh, so Cambodian dance would be digitally archived for the first time in history, and put SIB on the map as a significant achiever. 71

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Pansy Lim Joining Soroptimist International Bangkok has given me this significant opportunity. For the past many years SIB has sponsored Business Meeting Country Western , Rock N Roll Fund Raiser various charities, especially in education for chosen students who cannot only help improve their own lives, but also make a difference in the lives around them. 2002 Funds from my year of Fundraiser’ Guest Speaker Dr Surin Pitsuwan Former Foreign Minister Installation night Country Western & Rock and Roll Member Induction Fund Raiser Born and raised in Singapore, I came to went towards the following : Thailand in the 70’s. Soon after my arrival - Building a Training Centre for the I continued to work for Lancôme disabled girls at Prakkred Cosmetics where I enjoyed the warmth - Sponsorship for students in Chiang Rai and enormous hospitality of my Thai - Nanny Program in Prakkred’s Baby Home Colleagues. Their kindness and readiness to assist made me feel very welcome and I thank everyone who has helped me in quite at home, and I settled down easily. putting a smile on the face of the less privileged. I know I have the responsibility as a privileged woman to help the less fortunate to have a better life and to give back to the Thai society. Sala Opening ceremonie with Japan Friendship link Kyoto-Tachibana The Sala in Action 72

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Bubby Mohan orphans, donated to Pakkred Dental Clinic A dinner reception for the Thai society, dignitaries from various Panel discussion with UNIFEM entitled “Halt Violence Against towards “Brushing Project” and for a fields and those closely associated with the issue of Violence Against Women”. Keynote speaker was Dr. Radhika Coomaraswamy, UNICEF funded project Women (VAW). Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka. - Created awareness of Violence Against 2003 Women. Invited Dr. Radhika Coomaras- “Bollywood Nights”. Charity fundraiser at the Ballroom, The Oriental Hotel. wamy, Chairperson of the Human Rights I had the greatest honour and privilege Commission, Sri Lanka and former United of being not only a member but also Nation’s Special Rapporteur for Violence the 2003 President of SIB. During my Against Women to be our keynote speaker presidency I was successful in achieving at a panel discussion. Also present was our mission of making a difference in the Mrs. Elaine Moffat, SISWP Federation lives of the underprivileged. President. The highlights during my time were: - Dr. Kris Chatamara, Cancer Specialist - A very successful “Bollywood Nights” and Surgeon provided a very insightful talk fundraiser to support several projects on Breast Cancer, as our monthly guest - Accomplished our mission of building speaker. the library at Cholaprathan Songkroh School - We brought joy to some children with in Nonthuburi, where children are exposed special needs from Pakkred, with a visit to to drugs and alcohol. the Safari World - Provided scholarships to Chiang Rai “WOMEN AT OUR BEST, HELPING OTHERS TO BE THEIR BEST” Dr. Kris Chatamra, spoke on “Breast Cancer” at the SIB monthly luncheon. Bubby Mohan and Annemarie Durbin CEO of Standard Chartered Visit Safari World with special needs children from Pakkred. Bank, officiated the opening of the library of the Cholarprathan Song Kroh School in Nonthaburi. 73

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Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Jinee Russell were expatriates, including visiting SI Kyoto 2004 SIB Annual Fund Raising Lanna Tachibana members. The Nation newspaper featured our event in its ‘Talk of the Town’ section of October 19, 2004. It was another team effort of SIB and SID members working together to bond our friendship and further our accomplishments in supporting all our various committed projects. 2004 Also earlier in the same year, SIB joined with Lanna tradition-Seub Cha Tha (Celebration of Life) Visiting SI Kyoto Tachibana members. the United Nations Development Fund for ceremony. Entrance of participants in Sueb Cha Tha Ceremony. In 2004, Soroptimist International Bangkok Women (UNIFEM), now UN Women in a SIB President Jinee Russell( center), SID President Rambha chose two different events to celebrate our campaign for the Ending Violence Against Bhoocha-oom (right), Committee Member Joo Lee Lau ( left). beloved Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s 72nd Women (EVAW) by organizing an art Birthday (Sixth Cycle). exhibition, initially with four local artists, but For our major fund-raising effort in October, at the end 18 international women artists 2004, 32 performers were flown from Chiang proudly took part. The success of this exhibi- Rai to Bangkok to present the best of Lanna tion, “Women 4 Women”, exceeded beyond culture in a “Seub Cha Tha” (Celebration of our expectations, thanks to the support of our Life) event. The Lanna theme was our way to generous sponsors : Siam Commercial Bank Plc, pay tribute to Her Majesty the Queen, who has The Thai Siam Museum and The Body Shop been instrumental in the development of (Central Group). Media coverage included many Lanna projects in Northern Thailand, Thai, English and Chinese newspapers and promoting its culture and the development magazines. Dr. Valerie McKenzie promoted of its women. More than half the 500 guests the exhibition on her Channel 11 Morning Talk Show to much acclaim from both local 76 and expat communities in Bangkok. In commemoration of the International Two of our sponsors: The HSBC Bank and Thai Airways. SIB President Jinee Russell and SID President Rambha Bhoocha-oom Day for the Elimination of Violence Against present bouquet of flowers to Ajarn Nakorn Pongnoi of Mae Fah Women on November 25th, 2004, Khunying Luang Foundations under the Royal Patronage Chamnongsri Hanchanlash on behalf of the EVAW Network Thailand and UNIFEM, now UN Women presented me with an Outstanding Female Figure Award for meeting their objectives.

Soroptimist International Bangkok Women 4 Women Activities I am grateful to all our SIB members’ full Guests registering at the Art Exhibition Khunying Chamnongsri Hanchanlash presenting the Outstanding Visit to a Women’s Prison organized by the Ministry of Justice. participation and greatly appreciated the “Women 4 Women.” Female Figure Award to President Jinee Russell. members of the press for bringing this social issue to the public awareness. All the funding Wife of the US Ambassador, Mrs. Kathleen Johnson presiding over the open ceremony. President Jinee Russell presenting flowers Children’s outing to Pattaya. raised was to establish the new “EVAW Network to Khunying Chamnongsri Hanchanlash. of Thailand” and to provide sufficient funding for hotlines and consulting programs over the following two years for women who were seeking psycho-social support. We were also able to continue supporting the on-going projects and Scholarships in Chiang Rai. When the Tsunami hit the Southern provinces in Thailand on December 26, 2004, SIB immediately provided a Tsunami Relief Fund and our PP Maleeratna, accompanied by a group of professional women, later visited the badly hit areas to offer assistance. As a Club we were fortunate to recruit six new members during 2004. I wish to express my appreciation and gratitude for giving me an opportunity to serve and to witness our continuing efforts and commitment in bringing meaningful changes into the lives of the less fortunate. “Women 4 Women” exhibition artists at the opening ceremony. Visiting students in the Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai UNIFEM hosted a luncheon to thank SI Bangkok and artists in “Women 4 Women” media coverage. Dinner with our students in the Golden Triangle, appreciation for their effort to raise funds for EVAW projects. Chiang Rai. 77

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Patricia J. Chagnon Project Five-O project in Klong Pakbang-Patong visited by Si President and Fund Raiser “Hollywood Glitter” Oct 7, 2005 SISWP President 2005 CONTINUATION OF SIB EFFORTS: - Donation Nanny Support at Pakkred Combined installation SID and SIB with SISWP President Elect Lorna Mead Saying Farewell to Pat - Donation and Activity Dental Program at Pakkred (snacks to keep children occupied To repair boats, buy fishing nets and initiate vocational training to enable Restored Fish & Mussel Farm-Phuket Rebuilding fishing fleet before treatment) possibilities to earn alternative income - Donation and Activity Chiang Rai outreach Club archives with warm clothing - Scholarship to Orphans due to AIDS, College level in Chiang Rai - Follow up Library and Playground at Cholaprathan Sokroh school - Support UNIFEM, new Donation Dental Project, for Women in Prison visited by SI President and SISWP President 78

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Maleeratna Plumchitchon occupation skills such as sewing, making dessert and food to sell. These efforts proved two-fold in achieving In the far South: Boats being built Nets being made restorations and nuturing friendships. Another collaboration realized too much needed dormitories for hilltribe children living in remote Chiang Rai mountains, providing them a safe convenient place to stay while attending school. Several other supportive efforts and projects were realized at these schools. 2006 Thanks to our members who bravely went In the Far North: Meetng the villagers Construction of Auxillary facilities to support schools to visit them, travelling very far up north on I was pleasantly surprised being elected steep and winding unpaved ways for many this third term which led to implementing hours with dedication and strong wills. double forces committees to efficiently Supporting the nanny, scholarship for the conduct our challenges. needy and many other community projects This setup proved sucesssful and was had been carried on through out. With the implemented in subsequent Terms. support of our committees and members, we successfully completed our favorable projects while having fun and friendship bonding among us. After the Dec 2004 tsunami, the affected Joint meeting S.I.A.M.12 years on Swinging sixties Fund Raiser damaged areas were still under restoration. Collaborating as 5-O organizations resulted in major contributions to provide affected fisherman boat and nets for them to go back to work and teaching women alternative 79

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Soroptimist International Bangkok 2007 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Helen Lynch was an exciting and productive time. Soroptimist International Bangkok was conference. We were so enthusiastic to busy with many on-going and new complete some of the dormitories in initiatives. We started supporting the Chiang Rai, a program started during program to teach prisoners cooking skills, Maleeratna’s term. Jarunee and Kamolchand an initiative that has continued today. secured a generous donation from Siam Our cross-stitch project was just starting Cement for the dormitories in Chiang Rai. with our project manager Pansy and our Our scholarship program was in full force creative designer Sara. What an amazing with many successful stories. Simon Goff project! The beautiful bags, t-shirts, and with MTV and I went on the “Morning other products made money for women Show” to promote a CD which helps in the northeast, supported our various people recognize human trafficking. It was programs, and was recognized by a full year with every single member Soroptimist International at the national contributing actively to the club’s successes. One of the most important events that year was our annual fundraiser which supports most of our activities. The occasion offered an opportunity to showcase how smoothly we functioned as a club. Every member worked tirelessly to sell tickets, promote the fundraiser, and we “dressed to impressed” with our theme, “Beach Boogie”. Our commitments to the advancement of women strengthen and energized us but most importantly enhanced our friendships with each other. We reinvigorated our fellowship with our sister Soroptimists from Japan and they joined us in a project in Chiang Rai. We attended meetings to support our Dusit Soroptimists and we helped each other in reaching our goals. Although I have left Thailand, Soroptimist has never left my heart. The friendships I made there will endure forever. 81

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Jarunee Puongpianr Payao provinces. We built a dormitory Installation evening Spring Fling FUN-D Raising It is the spirit of Soroptimism for girl students whose homes are on high that makes this fund raiser so successful.” Jarunee mountains, at Koon Khuan Vitayakom 2009 school in Payao province. This project was co-sponsored by SIB, SI Osaka It is a great honor to be a member of Higashi club and the American Chamber Soroptimist International of Bangkok. of Commerce. We also provided warm I wish to thank PP Maleeratna for clothes for these high land hill tribes. This inviting me to join and all members who warm clothes drive I continue individually gave me an opportunity to be President, each year. The scholarships at University a very special lifetime gift. level continued for hill tribe students Thankfully annual fund raising parties orphaned or affected by HIV/AIDS. “Jungle Jive” and “Spring Fling” Also the on-going donations for nanny augmented the club’s projects focused support and dental care at Pakkred Home on hill tribe villagers, an under privileged for Disabled Children continued. ethnic group. Our efforts were dedicated As well as rehabilitation possibilities to educational support for students living for imprisoned women continued with at the Thai-Laos border in Chiangrai and donation and cooking demonstrations to inspire reliable subsistence skills when 82 they finished their imprisonment. Koon Khuan Vittiyakom School , Payao, build one dormitory and one canteen Keeping everyone warm each year sponsor by SIB, SI Osaka Higashi Club and American Chamber of Commerce Donation At Dental Clinic Basic Necessities Donated At Prison

Soroptimist International Bangkok 2010 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Jarunee Puongpianr We made and sold hats for breast cancer research at the Pink Ribbon CWL Luncheon. Being SIB’s president, I received strong support from members, PPs, friendship The club continued its sustainable link clubs and SISWP which I am very “Cross Stitch of Love” project with note grateful for fulfilling my life. May I wish cards and totes. all the best for the happiness of all. At the 2008 Conference we garnered Pink Ribbon Donation Training production skills for Cross Stitch of Love two years of orders from SIA’s “She’s Global SI Project Coordinator, Chris Knight’s “one night in All That” workshops in California. Thus Bangkok” this project’s intention of self-reliance worked with revolving the proceeds to seed its orders and to become donations to aid building the needed support facility of canteen at the mountain school. Then SISWP visits of an IPP and a hands on with the women as a team to meet orders Global Coordinator followed strengthening our relationship with SISWP by creating a SIerra product line and in turn sending a delegate to the conference at the Gold Coast. She managed to hand carry the unique SIerra order, sell SIB’s Cross Stitch items during breaks and was proxy for incoming National Rep. The returns were: receiving Best Practices Award for Education for all facilities built since 2006, sales reimbursing the Club’s travel fund and being SISWP informed. Delegate Mauragote w IPP Leigh : receiving award for SIB at Being with possibility as Soroptimists that makes a difference. conference 83

Soroptimist International Bangkok 2011 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dawn Bowness I am Canadian and have lived in Germany, Korea, and later, Thailand for We supported a program for girls who 12 years before returning to Canada. wanted to become nurses after graduating I live in White Rock (Vancouver), British high school. Columbia. As the President of SI Bangkok We provided a new kitchen and a separate I had the opportunity to work with a building for girls and boys toilets at a school. wonderful group of ladies to contribute We made an annual visit, with the assistance to the betterment of women and girls in of Khun Nok Viravan and her sister Deon, Thailand. I am so grateful to have had to the Khlong Prem ladies prison where this opportunity. we provided personal items to the ladies. We had an on going cottage industry I presented a cooking class to demonstrate teaching the women in a hill tribe village a Canadian dish. After using a sharp knife north of Chiang Rai how to market their in the process I mistakenly passed it to one of cross stitch scarves, runners, and cards. the female inmates. After the 2011 tsunami in Japan SIB sent a relief package to our sister clubs: SI Kyoto-Tachibana and SI Osaka-Higashi. We had Soroptimist Sisters visit from Germany. We hosted a luncheon to welcome them. Khun Pansy, Khun Danette, and myself made a trip to Wian Kaen to deliver used clothing and blankets for the cold winter. Bangkok and surrounding area suffered a severe flood. SIB joined the Volunteer Flood Relief program. 84

Soroptimist International Bangkok 2012 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dawn Bowness Our SIB members made personal donations that covered the cost of a dialysis machine. During this time we had two very dear It was a demonstration” on the spot” of members fall ill, Khun Valerie and Khun their generosity. Rachinee. Sadly, we lost both of them. SIB was represented at a United Nations We came together to honour them. Conferences to engage in discussion with Voralak and Rojy both gave birth to girl women from Asia on how to meet our children who attended SIB meetings on mandate to provide a better life for women. occasion with their SIB Moms. We signed President Dawn and PP Jinee attended them into the club pretty much from a Soroptimist Conference representing birth. Imagine the story they each will tell SIB and Thailand that was held in 45 years from now. Montreal, Quebec. Thank you SIB for this opportunity. PP Pansy, PP Jarunee and myself made I am so grateful and very humbled by a trip to Chiang Rai with donations of this experience. clothing for the children. On September 9, 2012, I was very surprised SIB members made a trip to Watchulamanee School to deliver books for their library. President Dawn, Khun Sukanya, Khun but grateful to receive an award from the Danette, Khun Rita National Council for Women in Thailand. SIB held its annual fundraiser with the title Chulalonghorn University where many flood victims were housed to teach the ladies how to knit to keep them occupied while “Starry Starry Night” a nod to Vincent stranded. President Dawn, Khun Maleeratna Van Gogh. The event raised funding for education. 85 SIB supported the Combined Womens Luncheon which included the women’s clubs within Bangkok. We bought a table at the annual Clutter Sale at the Four Seasons Hotel to raise funds.

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Rojanard Waramontri - We SIB sisters are ONE-would foster positive results. This year was SIB’s 36th anniversary, Since birth, my sister serve together inspired by our Mom Best friends, Sretsis,created opportunites with results to make a difference befittingly we celebrated with a Gala, 2013 Dreams Come True. This theme was inspired by a family’s caregiving love I’ve known and lived Soroptimist values and with a member, an Auntie, undergoing principles since birth. How? My mother, treatment. Being a new mom, I was a charter member, nurtured and inspired touched. SIB agreed to support a needy me and my sister, Mauragote, to live these on families’ hospice for afflicted children all levels with selfless openness, togetherness during in patient palliative care. To realize and oneness. Likewise the 3 Soroptimen this intention we reached out to generous complimented these with support. And sponsors including the contributions for my young daughter reminded me to the evening’s concert performance by “Let It Go” during disagreements. Pod, Thanachai Ujin and live auction Listening to learn proved restorative including collectible Mamuang cartoons for my Soroptimism. by Wisut Ponnimit. As at 36 I honorably accepted to serve a 2 year Presidency with the belief that SIB’s The 2014 Gala, The Broadway Night, a Dear friends offered their talents to realize Dreams Come True objective endeavors engaged as FAMILY light of hope and charity garnered charitable 86 sponsors and entertainment contributions by talented performing artists. Galas and SIB’s unified resolve established our goal and more including four accom- modations, a safe haven for the in–patient children’s families just a short walk from Siriraj’s children’s hospital. This SIB Fund was managed by Siriraj’s Foundation’s welfare department. 2014 Gala featured diverse vocals that then too augmented all Launched children’s long term hospital care/ family support endeavors with future reserves with Siriraj Hospital as a SIB Fund

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Rojanard Waramontri 2014 Sretsis workshops in Chiang Rai with Hilltribes and with“GiveWomen a Second Chance Project”. Visit of SISWP Ambassador , with Sretsis and followed with an order delivered at 2014 Conference A textile factory of brand Sretsis (sisters Sanitary facilities, repairs and boxing programs at Watnumpu, Rachburi Friendship Links visit reviewing collaborative efforts and joining 36th anniversary spelt backwards) was invited to facilitate the hill tribes with product opportunities. They also implemented embroidery skills at Give Women a Second Chance project. Thus enabling and empowering, Sretsis for Soroptimist Project, produced brand products whose entire proceeds quickly augmented the SIB Fund. Further prime objectives of Educate to Lead and healthcare set up SIB’s nursing scholarships at Payao college, taught boxing and repaired classrooms at Watnampu, and thanked our Japanese Friendship Links. The annual VAW campaign produced REACH OUT awareness stickers; the following time with an interactive university workshop and display. SIB disaster relieve effort with BPW Association, distributed household items to flood victims. During the holiday season, Bangrak Vivace Choir offered to carol for SIB at major malls where Toys were donated, these we delivered to HIVAIDS children at Lorenzo Home. SIB as ONE with Diversity, Collaborations and Generosity brought forth Dreams Come True. Disaster relief for up country Talented friends contributing with events to make a differene, Assisting HIV/AIDS children at Lorenzo Home In Memory of Rachani and Valerie, who Flood Victims starting at K Village then CentralWorld offered wise counsel, resources and talents 87

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Soroptimist International Bangkok 2015 PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Frances Luns Becoming a Soroptimist in 1992 turned out to be one of my best decisions! At that I have good memories of visiting the time, I was living in Holland and I joined women’s prison, where I gave a cooking Club Hoeksche Waard/IJsselmonde. lesson. We needed a new website for the I was President in 2005-2006. In 2011 club, which I helped setting up. Together we moved to Thailand where I joined SIB. with Pansy I represented SIB at the SI My year as President was interesting and Convention in Istanbul, a very inspiring sometimes a challenge. The way the club event. is run is totally different from a Dutch Our fundraising gala was a great success. club. It was not always easy as I was We organized a 70-s party “Dance to the living in Hua Hin at that time so it was Beat” which was a lot of fun. The raised difficult to keep connected. funds went to some of the existing projects: the building of toilets in rural schools and scholarships for the nurses. I am proud to be a Soroptimist and I cherish all the contacts I made with so many sisters in so many different countries. Together we can make a difference. 89

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Sukanya Nimmanheminda years, I was so fortunate with four young Installation Evening “Getting to Know Us Better” In House Workshop: to Educate about Objectives and and very active “Second Generations” Possibilities to Lead among us. Thus I started the year with bringing back the spirit of working together by concentrating on getting to know each other better being my aim as announced at the Installation: “Getting to know us better. We are in this together. Through the year, we will work to learn more about the spirit of Soroptimism, to be proud of what it stands for, and to be better equipped and inspired to make a difference in the lives of women and girls”. 2016 Workshop at University Hospitality Faculty : Violence Against Inspecting Palliative Care Hostel for SIB Foundation Women Consent at Siriraj Hospital It’s interesting as a longtime member of SIB I found that you get the chance Planning collaborative fund raising at a hotel Serenading during Dazzling Runway Glamour fund to recycle as president when no other raising candidate is available, so old hands are welcome to step in. Actually, it is an honor to be elected for another tour of duties before you get to the stage of being redundant which one should not have reached in life. Being a Soroptimist means you can make yourself useful to others until you cannot get up. It was also very interested to work with younger generations and being able to show them that age is just a figure. For these two 90

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Sukanya Nimmanheminda 2017 And I was proud to say that we had realized these objectives with flying colors. We continued to build strong bonds by attending field trips and workshops. We were successful in accomplishing Guest speaker for November VAW advocacy, daughter os 2nd Prison project co creator as quest speaker Deon “Naphaphan several new and continuing projects in education, health care, nursing scholarships, generation Vejajiva of BPW” workshops on violence against women for students, contributions to help the international disasters, advocacy for peace, networking activities and many more interesting social participations to promote our public image. Lots of funds were raised through out the two years while having fun among members. I would like to sum up that these two years had brought me closer to our fellow Soroptimists both domestic and internationally. And I would like to thank my SIB Sisters for their cooperation and contributions. It was always fun to work with you all and we should be proud of what we had accomplished year by year to help make this a better world for everyone. CWL raising Funds for Paying Forward to our Annual Chiang Rai trip visiting recent sanitary faciity, girls toilets at Ban Par Rouk and Playground-Anubaan Nang Lae in Collaboration Programme Efforts with SI Osaka-Higashi, SI Kyoto-Tachibana and SI Toyohashi-Port Japan, SI Bangkok Annual clutter sale Field Trip to make donation and meet Nanny at Baan Fueng Fah Ae and Bangrak Vivace Choral Group bringing songs of Santa and helpers with carolers at cancer children ward Christmas and Joy 91

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Nirupama Narula Chansrichawla 2018 Seen the smiling faces of the hilltribe Installation Dinner Champagne & Pearls Dinner to receive Federation President Anusha families and children at the schools of our Children performing at our Pink Toilet Project, Chiang Rai Plastic Free SIB distributing cloth bags at Rajavithi Hospital Every little act of kindness touches someone’s pink toilet project in Chiang Rai. Siriraj Hospital Palliative Care soul. During my two terms, I saw my SIB Saw the lives of the elderly touched by sisters come together as a unit to make our support during the Ubon Rachathani service possible. To this sisterhood, I am flooding crisis. grateful beyond measure. Been with sisters who support Siriraj Hospital I joined SIB to help create a better world Project, funding boarding for low income but what I received in return was far greater families with gravely ill children under than I anticipated. palliative care. As President, I embraced the opportunity Hired caretakers for children at the Baan to continue our effort in Educating to Lead Fueng Fah orphanage. and was proud to bring about Climate Met our student nurses at the Boromara- Change Initiatives to SIB. Thailand has jonani College of Nursing, Phayao, who seen worsening effects of Climate Change sang songs of gratitude. - it’s time we take action. Interviewed and provided scholarships to student nurses at the Mae Fa Luang University, Chiang Rai and Hua Chiew University in Bangkok. Collaborated with sisters at the Ruam Chuay Foundation, who teach youngsters to protect themselves from gender-based violence. Visited Correctional Centers and taught women to speak English, sew and bake, who shared visions of professions they will start one day. Nursing Scholarship at Baromojonani College of Nursing, Phayao 92

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Nirupama Narula Chansrichawla 2019 Supported the construction of a school Donation to HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Projects Paying our respects and wishing a speedy recovery at Chulalongkorn canteen roof and playground in Ampoe Flower Power Fundraiser at Sheraton Grande Hotel Hospital to Phra Chao Worawong Thoe Pra Ong Soamsawali Working toward a plastic-free society with Pua in Nan province. We planted durian Kromma Muen Suddanarinatha sisters who make and distribute cloth bags trees with students, giving them a source and collect plastic bottle caps. of income so they can live more sustainably. Soroptimist International Convention at Kuala Lumpur Attended Federation Conferences, built Travelled to Bangkachao to plant trees in Friendship links, contributed to the the mangroves for reforestation. Nursing Scholarship to students at Mae Fa Luang University, SISWP Sanctuary Project, Makamura Took a ride down the green lungs of Samut Chiang Rai Indonesia and SI Japan providing Songkram to plant mangrove sapling, assistance during natural disasters. seeds and taiken trees. 93 Was fortunate to contribute proceeds With Climate Change, my passion project, from the Flower Power fundraiser to I’ve seen a world that needs more tender HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s love and care. Learnt the benefit a single Projects and to offer sponsorships to educate tree can make. Together, we’ve planted 17 additional student nurses - bringing over 1400 trees and counting - this is just the grand total to 35 student nurses. the beginning. We need to push forward to create a nature positive world of harmony and zero emissions. God works in mysterious ways. The best people came into my life just when I wished for them. For this, I am eternally grateful and thoroughly blessed. Ubon Rachathani Rescue Mission during the flooding crisis

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Soroptimist International Bangkok SIB Climate Change Initiative Recently Soroptimist celebrated it 100th year by bringing back two fantastic environment projects that honor our founding members and the values they handed down since 1921. SIB’s Climate Change Initiative came about in 2018. In the past ten years Thailand has experienced air pollution, which didn’t exist when we were children. As President it became my mission to improve our carbon footprint and do more. To promote awareness, plant trees and reduce the use of disposable plastic by getting local communities involved and, thereby, feeling more responsible for protecting their environment. Thailand is a signatory of the Paris Climate Change Agreement since 2016 and now on the cusp of passing the Climate Change draft bill, which will help the country protect the environment and drive the economy. This requires collaboration. With collaboration comes the power of exponential effects. Let’s adopt a paradox thinking mindset. That is to say we can have the best of both worlds – climate change action should not be a choice of either/or, i.e. emissions vs poverty, emissions vs a lifestyle of food, cars & travel; we can have both. We at Soroptomist are glad to be the driving force of change and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030 for a better world.   Nirupama Narula Chansrichawla 95

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Christiane Kitchakarn Presidents Christiane Installation June 2020 UN Women’s Club 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner November 2020 Club Meeting 2020 Visiting Sisters Club in Osaka, Feb 2021 Members Signed the book of Blessing for speedy recovery of HRH Princess Soam- Introduce Soroptimist to Minister Anutin Charnvirakul sawali Krom Muen Suddhanarinatha at King Chulalongkorn Hospital I was first introduced to Soroptimist by but grew stronger was our commitment Khun Pansy. Before moving to Bangkok, to our community. We are able to continue Donation of food and supples to “Baan Bethany “ Elderly Home, and Scholarship sponsor by SI friends in Nongpamor Pittayakom I had the privilege to participate in a our commitments and we were able to mingle with the residents, August 2020 School, Rachaburi few SIB events, whether it was through help those who were greatly affected by donation, hotel voucher or attending a the pandemic. We established the club as Drager Thailand And Soroptimist Bangkok Joint project led by Elina Donation of LED Phototherapy Lamp to Prachanukroh Hospi- fundraiser, I was inspired by and resonated a recognised Foundation in Thailand. with the work Soroptimist was doing. We participated and collaborated with the I was very thankful that Khun Pansy UN and Zonta for the 16 days of activism agreed to be my sponsor when I moved preventing violence against women. to Bangkok and I was able to join this sisterhood. We increased our friendship links from 5 We all experienced first hand the impact to 12 clubs, seizing the opportunity of the Covid-19 had on the world and our com- new normal virtual world of Zoom, we munity, the one thing that didn’t change were able to reach out to more clubs and 96 form more friendship links. We had new members join our club, for which we were recognised by the SWP Federation and given an Award. Pancheva 4th from the right, to provide infant incubator to the southern tal Chiang Rai, Sep.2020 province of Thailand

Soroptimist International Bangkok PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Christiane Kitchakarn 2021 Presentation of 33 Scholarships To The Boromarajonani College of Visiting Khun Gita Sabharwal UN Resident Coordinator in Supporting Rotary Club Bangkok at their Environment tree Nurses Payao, Sep 2020 Thailand, October 2020 plantation, Oct 2020 We had the honor to collaborate with the IWC fundraising party for Breast Cancer Awareness , Nov 2020 Ministry of Education and the UN on the Attending the Breast Cancer Awareness at Bumrungrad October Meeting in Support of Breast Cancer, ‘Mapping the Digital Divide’ initiative, Hospital, Oct. 2020 which is an ongoing project we are undertaking, to improve the education of the Thai Children. Lastly publishing the 45th Anniversary Book for SI Bangkok, which I hope provides reminder for all the SI ladies of the dedication and work we have put in throughout the last 45 years of service, and to inspire us to continue dedicating our time and resources to our community. 16 days Advocacy for “Violence Against Women “ Nov 2020 Club Christmas Party , Dec. 2020 Donation Of Winter Clothes at Doi Angkhang Fang District Meeting with Khunying Kalaya Sophonphanich, Deputy Minister of Education Chiang Mai, Dec 2020 regarding the Digital Divide within the School Education system in Thailand Donation of food ,Toiletry and utility by Kellie , J.P and friends to Presentation Of Scholarship to Ratchaborikanukroh School, Installation of 6 New Members , March 2021 16 days Advocacy “Violence Against Woman” November 2021 the deaf community who live under the Rama 9 Bridge, March 2021 sponsor by Nicharot Family, Feb. 2021 97

Soroptimist International Bangkok 2020-2021 Activities Orientation Meeting for new Members, Nov.2020 Visiting Kindergarten school at the local Temple, in Fang District, Dec. 2020 Donation of 3 Water Tanks, to Wat Pa Daeng Temple, Dec.2020 Donation of Christmas goodie to the blind Children at the Foundation Members in Action to raise money for the club activity, Feb.2021 for the Blind in Thailand , Rama 6 Feb.2021 (by Elina) It was an honor to be recognize by Expat Society Magazine under SI Bangkok Presidency, Jan 2021 Trip to Baan Mai-Kaengmee, School Loei Province with the MOE team for the Digital project, Feb, 2021 (MOE Ministry of Education) 98

Soroptimist International Bangkok 2020-2021 Activities Trip To Kanchanaburi Province Kang Jor School for Digital project, March 2021 Meeting with Khun Thanachai Ujjin ( Pod, Modern Dog ) in collaboration for club Fundraising, April 2021 Meeting with Khun Wisut Ponnimit ( Mamuang artist) for the Club fundraising Logo, April 2021 Donation By the 27th Mekong Cup International Ball Hockey Tournament for Nurse Scholarship, April 2021 99

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