The inauguration ceremony of the new board of Soroptimist Porto Alegre, realizada na noite desta segunda-feira (16/09), 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, Presidente do SI Porto Alegre Metropolitana na gestão 2022/2024, began the ceremony, highlighting the work done throughout his management. She expressed her pride that the group achieved 100% of the established goals
"The metrics require the implementation of significant actions and the full compliance with the objectives set by the federation". A deep engagement is necessary, with the retention of at least 85% of the members. Like other similar initiatives around the world, this also shines brightly, promising to illuminate the lives of thousands of women and girls, stated
Continuing with the ceremony, the associate of SI Canoas, Marilene Nóiman, made an ecumenical reflection. The ceremony also featured the participation of Director Maria Helena Riquinho dos Santos. The new Elected President, 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 night". Dear friends and sisters, today is a significant day, I take on the presidency of SI Porto Alegre Metropolitana alongside this board made up of determined and empowered women, just like all the members of our club. We are firmly committed to building, meetings, a more supportive world, fraternal, sustainable and inclusive for women and girls in situations of social vulnerability, stated
The highlight of the ceremony was the traditional Blue Candle Ceremony, led by Maria Helena Riquinho dos Santos, that explained the symbolism of the candle as an emblem of justice and equality. Next, 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 of directors, that 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, being presented by their godmothers and receiving flowers in recognition of their membership in the club. After the oath, were formally welcomed by President Etiane
The event was concluded with a toast to the new management and a dinner, celebrating the beginning of a new cycle for Soroptimist Porto Alegre Metropolitan. The event was attended by authorities and supporters, including Cooperlíquidos, Gabardo Transport and SETCERGS
