Soroptimist Convention 2011

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The 2011 Soroptimist Convention held in Montreal, Canada, in July had the theme “Women: Leaders in Civil Society”. This beautiful French inspired city hosted 1200 Soroptimists from 60 countries.
The Convention had many facets; six leading women in Canada showcased their talent and leadership as keynote speakers; reports were received from the four Federations, Great Britain and Ireland, The Americas, Europe and South West Pacific; a variety of workshops were available for members to choose from and a sparkling social programme was included.

The Convention was held over five days in the Palais de Congres, and accommodation was arranged in nearby hotels. Montreal has a wonderful system of underground passages so that members could travel comfortably from one venue to another no matter what the weather in the streets outside.

The social programme began with a “Friendship Night”, a great opportunity to meet old friends and make new ones. The theme was Canadian with a variety of typical Canadian snacks throughout the evening. There was even a couple of “Mounties” who were arresting the guests for such crimes as having on too loud a tie or laughing too much.
A concert was held in the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral featuring six tenors and a Gala Dinner was held on the final night when president Hanne Jensbo from Demark handed over the Presidency of Soroptimist International to Alice Wells of America.

A final word from The Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, former Governor General of Canada, who came to Canada as a young immigrant from Hong Kong (she is part Chinese). She said she knows what it is like to be an “outsider” and it made her strong. Through education she has made great accomplishments and is recognised for her outstanding contribution to Canadian society.
She said “Education is the greatest thing.”