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Soroptimist International of the South East Asia Pacific (SISEAP) is one of the five federations of Soroptimist International (SI).
As a federation, we unite over 13 clubs across the region, each dedicated to advancing the Soroptimist mission and addressing issues faced by women and girls in our part of the world.
OUR FEDERATION
Our Federation: Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific
One of five Federations globally, SI South East Asia Pacific (SISEAP) - formerly SI South West Pacific (SISWP), is an expanding and dynamic Federation.
Soroptimist International, consists of five Federations: Soroptimist International Africa Federation (SAF), Soroptimist International of the Americas (SIA), Soroptimist International of Europe (SIE), Soroptimist International of Great Britain & Ireland (SIGBI) and Soroptimist International of the South East Asia Pacific (SISEAP).
Since its Charter as a Federation in its own right in 1978, the South East Asia Pacific has grown from three member countries, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, to include 13 countries - these include Mongolia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, Samoa, Singapore, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Myanmar.
Clubs within the Federation provide service to their local, national and international communities and focus their efforts on issues identified as being of current global significance. This allows the accumulated efforts of members in their local communities to have a global impact.
ESCOC Status
Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific has special consultative status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ESCOC) has recognised status as a Non-Government Organisation (NGO) with a broad range of expertise and a comprehensive agenda. This allows our collective efforts and opinions to be shared with a wider community and makes us an effective global voice for women.
Check out the Federation Websites for More Information
LEADERSHIP & VISION
At the heart of our Federation, SI South East Asia Pacific (SISEAP), is a strong commitment to empowering women and girls through collaborative leadership and strategic action.
Joanne Yeoh is our current President for SISEAP 2024-2026 and leads with a vision of "Soroptimists Empower Change". The President works hard to ensure our Federation's work aligns with the global goals of SI while addressing the specific needs of our diverse region.
Read below to find out more about Joanne's biennium theme.
Biennium Theme 2024-2026
The biennium theme for Joanne's biennium is “Soroptimists Empower Change". It is a powerful concept that encapsulates the idea of Soroptimists taking active roles in driving positive transformation in various aspects of society. It is about recognising the inherent value and potential of Soroptimists and supporting their efforts to create a more equitable and just society for all. It's not just about women's rights; it's about recognizing that when women are empowered, entire communities and societies benefit.
Her vision for the biennium is rooted in three core principles: to empower, to engage, and to elevate.
Empowerment lies at the heart of everything we do. The goals as Soroptimists are to empower women from all walks of life to realize their full potential, pursue their passions, and achieve their dreams.
Engagement is essential to our success as an organisation. We want to create an environment that embraces diversity, celebrates individuality, and fosters belonging for women of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
Elevation represents the elevation of voices, our voices in discussions and decisions in making tangible and lasting difference in the lives of women and girls in our community. Whether through advocacy efforts, community outreach programs, or collaborative partnerships, we will strive to effect meaningful change that challenge stereotypes and promote change on a boarder scale. an organization that stands at the forefront of championing women's rights and empowerment.
New Zealand Representation at the Federation Level
New Zealand is proud to have several members serving at the Federation level, contributing their expertise, passion, and leadership to shape the future of Soroptimist work. Among them are:
Anthea Penny
Federation
President-Elect
Berice Julian
Federation Secretary
Kristeen Johnston
Membership Convenor
Jane Stent
Assistant Membership Convenor
Deborah Wood
Director
These leaders ensure that New Zealand's voice and priorities are represented in the broader SISEAP region, driving forward impactful projects and empowering women and girls across our Federation. Their leadership is essential in ensuring we continue to grow and innovate while upholding the core Soroptimist values.
We are all so proud of these wonderful ladies.
Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific welcomes you to join us in making a difference in the lives of women and girls. Whether you're in New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, or beyond, our federation is a dynamic community ready to take on the challenges facing women in our region.
Together, we can continue to educate, empower, and enable.