The Soroptimist International of Bangalore is a part of the National Association of Soroptimists International, India (NASI) which is a part of the SIGBI federation. The club was started through Ms. Anitha Picardo, the extension officer of NASI in 2003 and was born on February, 2003. It got chartered on January 10, 2004 and is now registered in Bangalore under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Vision : Soroptimist International is a vibrant, dynamic organisation for today's professional and business women. We are committed to a world where women and girls together achieve their individual and collective potential, realise aspirations and have an equal voice in creating strong and peaceful communities worldwide)
Mission : Through international partnerships and a global network of members, Soroptimists inspire action and create opportunities to transform the lives of women and girls by:
- Advocating for equity and equality;
- Creating safe and healthy environments;
- Increasing access to education;
- Developing leadership and practical skills for a sustainable future
We look forward to engaging like-minded people around the world to work with us on our carefully chosen projects to make the world a better place to live in.
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The Soroptimist name
The first question we are often asked about Soroptimist is: "but what does it mean?"
The name Soroptimist was coined from the Latin soror meaning sister, and optima meaning best. Soroptimist is perhaps best interpreted as 'the best for women'. From the founding of the first Soroptimist club in Oakland, California, in 1921, through to the present day where over 3000 clubs are flourishing throughout the world, Soroptimists have continued to strive to achieve 'the best for women' in every sphere of their lives
Notable dates in the development of Soroptimist International
1921
First Soroptimist club founded in Oakland, California. The Founder President was Violet Richardson-Ward.
1924
Chartering of first Soroptimist club in London. The Founder President was Viscountess Falmouth.
Suzanne Nöel founded SI Paris, the first Soroptimist club in Europe. She later became the first President of the European Federation.
1928
Foundation of American and European Federations. Soroptimist International Association created to provide link between the Federations.
1934
Europe and Great Britain & Ireland form separate Federations.
1937
First Soroptimist club in Sydney, Australia.
1948
Soroptimist International Association awarded Consultative status with UNESCO.
1950
SI awarded category C Consultative status with ECOSOC. (Economic & Social Council, United Nations.)
1952
Foundation of International governing body of Soroptimist International.
1978
Inauguration of SI South West Pacific Federation. The Founder President was Mary Whitehead.
1984
SI granted Category 1 Consultative status (now General Consultative Status) with ECOSOC.