Dear Soroptimists,
40 years ago a handful of clever, courageous, hard-working, and good-at-heart women, under the leadership of Ahsen Önder, the Founding President of my Club, SI/Göztepe of İzmir Turkey, provided me with this opportunity and the priviledge to address you. I am honored with and indebted to all and each one of the former Presidents and the Members of my Club who, safely and successfully sustained the existence of our Club to this date.
Despite all the turmoil, conflicts, acts of terrorism, hatred and sufferings prevalent in our world today, we move forward on our way for “peace at home, peace in the world” always keeping the strong bonds of friendship alive among the women of our planet Earth. And we, the Soroptimists, are committed to continue doing so.
We strongly believe that Soroptimists from all over Europe and the world as well as my country ,would join us and share our joy of unity, stand up stong and straight side-by-side with us against all the perils of our world. No doubt we shall, together, continue to provide opportunities for the women and girls to improve their lives and to empower them to become the leaders of the future.
I cordially invite you to my home-town İzmir, to enjoy this city of many ancient civilizations, strong ties of friendship, good food and warmest “chat” sessions at Soroptimist homes. Be with us, support us with your energy, in short “Join us on our 40th anniversary” celebrations. We shall be honored with your presence.
Sincerely,
Lale Ersin,
President (2015-2017)
