Federation Conference 2009
SI Great Britain and Ireland Federation Conference at Cardiff 29-31 October 2009
SI Scotland South Region Silent Observer Award
Recipient for 2009 - Dr Audrey Morrison of SI Falkirk
As a researcher, while I am experienced in observing other people, I truly felt like a novice in my role as a silent observer at the Federation Executive Council pre-conference meeting, and wasn’t quite sure what to expect! My first thought was how many other silent observers there were in the room and how daunting this must be for council members seated round the large oval table and how difficult it actually is to be ‘silent’! Meeting other first-time Conference attendees (what a surprise-after 30 years of marriage to be considered a ‘virgin’!), such as Loveline Mbwdge from SI Kumba in Cameroon, helped in reinforcing the importance and similarity of the Programme Action we are involved in as fellow Soroptimists and, how similar our ideals.
Federation President Carwen Wynne Howells chaired the meeting and revealed the key challenges facing our Federation (membership, finance, communications, leadership and Public Relations), all of which separately or combined may affect the future survival and success of individual clubs and indeed the Federation itself. The council members present were faced with the difficult task of making decisions that could ameliorate existing and projected problem areas, especially where those involved issues surrounding finance. Carwen made a light-hearted yet serious reference concerning the organisation being the world’s best kept secret and emphasised the importance of both enhancing the profile of SI clubs and demonstrating to the public the impact of our Programme action work. Once votes were made to all the recommendations, and a strategic plan agreed in principle, the council had the unenviable task of putting those decisions before voting members on Saturday’s AGM. On a positive note, I have learnt such a lot about teamwork and camaraderie within the organisation! There is no doubt I have came away from this experience with the view that motivation and enthusiasm is the same no matter which SI club or federation we are from. We are truly are, and should always strive to be Sisters of Soroptimism and value the privilege and responsibility that comes with membership! I would encourage other new members to apply for a Silent Observer Award at future Conferences etc, as this is a truly inspiring and educational experience.
Audrey Morrison
November 2009