Personal Reflection on the Soroptimist International Convention in Dublin
The Soroptimist International Convention held in the charming city of Dublin marked a pivotal moment for me as I embarked on my very first SI convention experience. The anticipation leading up to this event was fuelled by the captivating and hilarious stories shared by fellow SI Bangsar club members about their previous convention trips. So I was quite keen to embark on one of these adventures myself along with other SI members.
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Being a relative newcomer to the world of Soroptimist International (SI), I eagerly awaited the convention. Admittedly, the cost factor was a consideration, given the weakened value of our ringgit and the prevalent inflation that has touched most corners of the globe. Moreover, I was excited at the prospect of revisiting Dublin, a city I had last explored at the age of 16. I had heard stories of Dublin's transformation over the years, and looked forward to visiting the city again. The convention's lineup of speakers proved to be both intellectually stimulating and captivating. Their presentations not only held the audience's attention but also provided a wealth of intriguing insights. The opportunity to learn from these accomplished individuals, as well as from the fellow attendees, was an enriching experience that expanded my horizons. One of the most rewarding aspects of the convention was the chance to interact with a diverse group of women from around the world, who shared a common dedication to supporting the vulnerable and underserved. It was incredibly heartening to witness the dedication and fervour displayed by these passionate individuals. |
Their commitment was particularly inspiring when considering the obstacles some participants who have mobility issues faced. They travelled thousands of kilometres to partake in this global gathering, and to reunite and meet with friends from across the world.
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The convention also provided a platform for Soroptimist International Clubs to showcase their projects through informative posters. This practice of sharing experiences and ideas within the community was undoubtedly valuable, fostering a sense of collaboration and mutual inspiration. Moreover, the workshops conducted during the convention further underscored the spirit of knowledge-sharing and camaraderie. Clubs exchanged their first hand experiences, shedding light on successful strategies and lessons learned. This collective effort contributed to a vibrant atmosphere of growth and innovation.
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In conclusion, the Soroptimist International Convention in Dublin was an enriching and unforgettable experience. The knowledge gained from insightful speakers, the connections forged with fellow attendees, and the shared dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of the less fortunate all left an indelible mark on me. The convention served as a testament to the power of unity, collaboration, and shared purpose that transcends borders.
I hope that in the future a greater number of SI members will be able to attend the conventions. However, the significant costs associated with traveling thousands of kilometres overseas pose a challenge for many individuals. In today's era of technological progress, there exists the potential to bridge this gap and unite more people without a hefty financial burden. A hybrid Soroptimist Convention, where participants can convene both in person and online, holds immense promise. Such an approach would undoubtedly yield substantial benefits for all members of Soroptimist International.
