Who we are
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About us
Soroptimists improve the lives of women and girls in more than 40 countries
Soroptimists are women in professions and business who work together at local, national and international levels to educate, empower and enable women and girls with an aim to improving their lives.
Soroptimists have addressed women’s issues in their communities and beyond since Soroptimist International was founded in 1921. Today, we are a strong international network of some 70,000 women, who are powerful and effective advocates of women’s and girls’ rights.
Today, Soroptimist International of Europe, the largest of the five Federations of Soroptimist International, is comprised of some 30,244 women across Europe, the Middle East and the Caribbean. The national Unions and Clubs of Soroptimist International of Europe initiate, support, finance and implement well over 4,000 projects for millions of euros every year.
Our history
The first club of Soroptimist International was founded in Oakland, California in 1921. The purpose of the organisation was and is to create a broad network of women representing different occupations, to foster a spirit of service and to encourage high ethical standards in business and professions.
The prominent French plastic surgeon Dr Suzanne Noël initiated the first SI club in Paris in 1924 and inspired the founding of many others in Continental Europe. She became the first President of the European Federation, which was established in 1928.
Our Philosophy
Our members work in their communities and beyond to provide concrete and practical help to women and girls.
Vision
Women and girls will achieve their individual and collective potential, realise aspirations and have an equal voice in creating strong, peaceful communities worldwide.
Mission
Soroptimists transform the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment and enabling opportunities.
Principles
The principles of Soroptimist are to strive for:
• The advancement of the status of women
• High ethical standards
• Human rights for all
• Equity, development and peace through the advancement of international understanding and good will
