The inauguration ceremony of the new board of Soroptimist Porto Alegre, held on the evening of this Monday (09/16), was marked by the spirit of solidarity, respect, and friendship, values that are the essence of Soroptimist International. This global organization, dedicated to transforming the lives of women and girls through access to education and economic development, was founded in 1921 and has nearly 66,000 members in 118 countries. The event, held at the SETCERGS headquarters, celebrated the leadership transition of Soroptimist Porto Alegre Metropolitana.
Iracema Gabardo, President of SI Porto Alegre Metropolitana for the 2022/2024 term, opened the ceremony, highlighting the work carried out during her tenure. She expressed her pride that the group had achieved 100% of the established goals.
“The metrics require the implementation of significant actions and the full fulfillment of the objectives established by the federation. Deep engagement is necessary, with the retention of at least 85% of members. Like other similar initiatives around the world, this one also shines brightly, promising to brighten the lives of thousands of women and girls,” he said.
Continuing with the ceremony, SI Canoas member Marilene Nóiman gave an ecumenical reflection. The ceremony also featured the participation of Director Maria Helena Riquinho dos Santos. The new President-Elect, Etiane Mateus Justo Clavijo, was formally sworn in.
“I deeply thank God for the work done and for the presence of each one of you on this special evening. Dear friends and sisters, today is a remarkable day, as I take over the presidency of SI Porto Alegre Metropolitana alongside this board of directors made up of determined and empowered women, as well as all the members of our club. We are firmly committed to building, together, a more supportive, fraternal, sustainable and inclusive world for women and girls in situations of social vulnerability,” she said.
The highlight of the ceremony was the traditional Blue Candle Ceremony, conducted by Maria Helena Riquinho dos Santos, who explained the symbolism of the candle as an emblem of justice and equality. Then, the new board lit the five yellow candles, representing the core values of Soroptimist: Tolerance, Sincerity, Wisdom, Friendship, and Altruism. Each candle was lit by a member of the new board, who read the corresponding meaning.
The ceremony culminated with the inauguration of Etiane Mateus Justo Clavijo as the new President. In a symbolic act, Iracema Gabardo handed the President's brooch to Etiane, accompanied by yellow flowers as a symbol of welcome.
Three new members – Dione Mafalda Roglio, Mara Ângela Menin, and Vera Cabral – were sworn in during the ceremony, introduced by their sponsors, and received flowers in recognition of their joining the club. After the oath, they were formally welcomed by President Etiane.
The event concluded with a toast to the new management and a dinner, celebrating the beginning of a new cycle for Soroptimist Porto Alegre Metropolitana. The event was attended by authorities and supporters, including Cooperlíquidos, Transportes Gabardo, and SETCERGS.
