Your personal motivation for joining the SIE Board?
In times of global uncertainty, particularly in international relations, Soroptimist solidarity and cross-border exchange are essential to defending democracy, strengthening Europe, and safeguarding peace. I look forward to meeting Soroptimists from across Europe and to further developing effective exchange within the Federation and beyond. In a world marked by instability, Soroptimist values are more vital than ever. Our commitment to advocacy requires a strong, credible presence across all communication platforms.
Cross-border relationships lie at the heart of Soroptimism and of our work for peace and stability, enriching the lives of women and girls. Having represented SI at the CSW in the UN Headquarters in New York, I feel that the international spirit of SI matters deeply. As Edith Peritz, founder of the first German club, said: “We must shape relations between peoples peacefully by building personal connections.” This is the essence of Soroptimist friendship.
What does your country do for women? What is your club’s involvement?
Germany’s new Gewalthilfegesetz strengthens protection for women, yet rising violence demonstrates how much more remains to be done. SI Club Mainz collaborates closely with local women’s organizations and has involved all men’s clubs in Orange Days initiatives focused on prevention (Frauenzentrum) and protection (Frauenhaus). Violence against women is not a „women’s issue.“
In 2015, our club founded the SI STAR Film Award honoring outstanding female directors. Now in its tenth year, supported by 32 German SI clubs, the award distributes €22,000 in prizes, enjoys the patronage of the state governor, and is honored with the Albert Treber Prize. It does matter who shapes the images and narratives of our time.
Our project Strong Women in Mainz highlights influential women—from historical figures to BioNTech co-founder Özlem Türeci—through guided tours, an annual calendar, and initiatives such as proposing women’s names for streets. SI Mainz has 33 highly active members.
What do you do for inspiration?
The short answer: I go outside.
Your vision for a just world — and for this biennium?
Peace and stability are more sustainable when women participate equally in negotiations and decision-making. Soroptimists can share effective national approaches—Italy’s “room of one’s own,” Spain’s electronic bracelets for offenders, or Germany’s Gewalthilfegesetz. Exchanging best practices will drive real change.
The world needs a strong Europe, and a strong Europe needs strong women—united across borders, grounded in democratic values, and committed to peace, stability, and Soroptimist friendship.
