Mayo county town Soroptimists hailed as 'a shining beacon of light'

CASTLEBAR Soroptimists' tradition of supporting women and girls through education, leadership, resilience building and friendship has been highlighted ahead of a major event in Mayo.

A national gathering of 120 soroptimists for the President's Friendship event is taking place in Breaffy House Resort this weekend (October 3 and 4), with delegates from all around Ireland.

Castlebar woman Anne O'Sullivan is president of Soroptimists International Republic of Ireland (SIROI) and she gave an enlightening presentation on the organisation's work locally, nationally and globally at the monthly Castlebar Municipal District meeting.

She was joined by Castlebar club president Margaret Corcoran and other local members.

Ms. O'Sullivan highlighted Castlebar's proud tradition of Soroptimist service, supporting women and girls through initiatives such as fundraising for Mayo Rape Crisis Centre, the women's refuge, Samaritans and hospice, as well as collaborating with groups such as Tidy Towns and the men's shed, as well as secondary schools in west Mayo.

They work with the council too, on projects such as the annual Orange the World campaign, which raises awareness about gender-based violence by lighting up public buildings and landmarks in orange.

The president, whose term in office comes to an end on November, has visited almost every Soroptimist club in Ireland over the past year. She has also overseen a new national project, Hidden in Plain Sight, raising awareness about human trafficking.

The experiences of young women shaped by Soroptimist initiatives, such as its girls' leadership conference and public speaking competition, were also shared with councillors.

National attention is on Castlebar for two days, October 3 and 4, when delegates at the President's Friendship Weekend will hear from a range of inspiring speakers including former President of Ireland Mary McAleese, Prof. Rose Anne Kenny and broadcaster and advocate Miriam O'Callaghan, who will reflect on women's leadership, resilience and the power of connection.

Said Ms. O'Sullivan: “This event is more than a gathering. It's a showcase of what SIROI is all about - a diverse, engaged, inter-generational network of women from all walks of life who come together to support, challenge, and uplift each other.”

SIROI is part of a vibrant global movement of over 72,000 members in 120 countries, working to improve the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment and advocacy.

The presentation was warmly received by all elected members, with Councillor Donna Sheridan saying the work they do is 'a shining beacon of light'.

Their voice is needed now, more than ever, said Councillor Michael Kilcoyne, with issues such as homelessness.

Councillor Harry Barrett said their impact is profound and he urged the organisation to keep making legacies for women and girls.