Major event is coming to Mayo's county town next weekend
Pictured are some of the members of Castlebar Soroptimists. Picture: Alison Laredo
Members of Castlebar Soroptimists have addressed a meeting of the local municipal council ahead of a major event in the town.
Castlebar woman Anne O'Sullivan is the current president of Soroptimists International Republic of Ireland (SIRO1) and she is bringing the organisation's President's Friendship Week to her hometown this weekend. Breaffy House Resort will host the event on October 3rd and 4th, which will bring more than 120 people to Castlebar.
The two-day event will feature a distinguished line-up of speakers including former President of Ireland Mary McAleese, Professor Rose Anne Kenny and broadcasters and advocates Miriam O'Callaghan and Louise Duffy, who will reflect on women's leadership, resilience, and the power of connection.
"This event is more than a gathering. It's a showcase of what SIROI is all about: a diverse, engaged, intergeneration network of women from all walks of life, who come together to support challenge and uplift each other," said the organisation's President.
In her address to local councillors, Ms O'Sullivan highlighted Castlebar's proud tradition of Soroptimists' service, noting the local club's commitment to supporting women and girls through a series of initiatives, fundraisers, and collaborations with local organisations and every second-level school in West Mayo.
Ms O'Sullivan warmly acknowledged the council's support for the annual Orange the World Campaign, which raises awareness about gender-based violence by lighting public buildings and landmarks in orange. Her presentation also included video contributions from inspiring young women shaped by Soroptimist initiatives.
SIROI is part of a global movement with over 72,000 members in 120 counties, working to improve the lives of women and girls.
Councillors praised the work of Soroptimists in Castlebar.
"Castlebar is very luck to have you," said Cllr Ger Deere.
"You are crucial. You are the shining light when it is needed," commented Cllr Michael Kilcoyne.
Cllr Donna Sheridan called the group a "beacon of light".
- Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
