Soroptimist Union of Turkey

The Soroptimist Union of Turkey and the Modern Drama Association have collaborated on a drama therapy project called the 'Evaluation Workshop'. This large-scale project is designed to combat destructive patterns of behaviour, particularly those associated with violence against women. Drama therapy provides a safe emotional distance from events, giving victims the confidence to share their personal stories and experiences with others. This therapy technique helps women overcome feelings of powerlessness and gain a better understanding of their ability to change their situation.

The Evaluation Workshop project has provided training in strategies to combat and control violence to over 8000 women in nine Turkish cities. Participants receive training in interfamily communication, recognizing and managing conflict situations, building self-esteem, and applying to public institutions and NGOs for assistance. Additionally, awareness-raising events and press conferences have been organized as part of the project. Overall, this project highlights the effectiveness of drama therapy as a therapeutic technique and as a powerful call to action in combating violence against women.

The word "Soroptimist" is derived from the Latin words "soror" meaning sister, and "optima" meaning best. It refers to business and professional women who strive for the best and is the name given to a coordinated global volunteer movement that aims to improve the lives of women and girls.

The first club of the International Soroptimist (SI) organization was established in 1921 in Oakland, California, USA, with the aim of spreading the idea and service carried out jointly by business and professional women to women and young girls around the world. The first clubs in Europe were founded in London and Paris in 1924. By 1928, many clubs were opened in two Federations consisting of America (SIA) and Europe (SIE). The link between them was established in 1928 with the creation of the “International Soroptimist Partnership”. In 1934, the third federation “Great Britain & Ireland” (SIGBI) was formed, and by 1978, the number of countries with Soroptimist Clubs had reached 55, with many clubs appearing on every continent.

In Turkey, the Istanbul Soroptimist Club was founded in 1948 by Müfide Ferit Tek, an enlightened Turkish woman and writer. The club expanded over time with the establishment of other clubs. The Turkish Soroptimist Club Federation (TSKF), which is a member of the International Soroptimist European Federation (SI/E) and was founded in 1953 with Istanbul and Ankara clubs, has nearly a thousand members and works in five important areas for women and girls: education, economic empowerment, elimination of violence against women, health, and sustainable environment.

The main goals of the Soroptimist Union of Turkey include promoting human rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls. The organization seeks to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and girls and to ensure that they have equal access to education, employment, healthcare, and other basic human rights.

One of the key purposes of the Soroptimist Union of Turkey is to support the education of girls and young women in Turkey. The organization provides scholarships and other forms of financial assistance to girls and young women who might otherwise not be able to afford an education. By doing so, the Soroptimist Union of Turkey hopes to create a new generation of empowered women who can take leadership roles in their communities and beyond.

The Soroptimist Union of Turkey also aims to raise awareness about the issues facing women and girls in Turkey. The organization conducts research, organizes events, and engages in advocacy to highlight the challenges that women and girls face and to promote policies and practices that can help to address these challenges.

In addition, the Soroptimist Union of Turkey provides support to women and girls who have experienced violence or abuse. The organization works to raise awareness about the issue of gender-based violence and provides resources and services to women and girls who have been affected by it.

One of the key areas where the organization has had an impact is in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment. The Soroptimist Union of Turkey has been actively involved in various initiatives and projects aimed at empowering women and girls. For example, the organization has supported education programs for girls, provided vocational training for women, and advocated for equal pay and employment opportunities for women. These efforts have helped to create a more inclusive and equal society in Turkey.

The Soroptimist Union of Turkey has also had an impact on promoting social welfare and humanitarian causes. The organization has been involved in various projects aimed at improving the living conditions of marginalized groups, such as refugees, the elderly, and people with disabilities. The organization has provided financial assistance, food, clothing, and shelter to those in need, and has also helped to raise awareness about social issues through advocacy and education campaigns.

In addition to its work in promoting gender equality and social welfare, the Soroptimist Union of Turkey has also been involved in environmental conservation efforts. The organization has participated in various campaigns and initiatives aimed at protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. For example, the organization has supported tree-planting campaigns, promoted the use of renewable energy sources, and raised awareness about the impacts of climate change.