About Soroptimist International

Soroptimist International

is a worldwide service organisation of professional women building a better world for women and children through AWARENESS, ADVOCACY and ACTION.

• is inspired by the spirit of goodwill and friendship
• has some 90,000 members in more than 3,000 clubs in 125 countries
• was founded in 1921 in Oakland, California (USA)
• takes its name from the Latin ‘soror’ and ‘optima’, usually interpreted as ‘the best for women’
• is composed of four federations, each having unions/regions and clubs.
• is committed to international friendships initiatives, decision-making at all levels of society and service and networking in local, national and international communities.

Through International Goodwill and Understanding and Friendship, Soroptimists strive for

• the advancement of the status of women
• high ethical standards
• human rights for all
• equality, empowerment and peace

Soroptimist International is concerned with international and national issues that relate to its objectives and programmes. On matters of political controversy between nations, of party politics and of sectarian religion, SI maintains a position of strict neutrality.

Each club consists of at least 18 active members. At the monthly Club meetings, speakers and presentations by the members discuss topics relevant to our objectives and goals and inspire projects.

Membership is by invitation. To be eligible for membership, a woman must be working in a management or professional capacity, or in an occupation with similar status or responsibility. Qualified women who are starting out in their careers, taking a career break or who are no longer working are also eligible to join.