Welcome back to our Step it Up Campaign, where our aim is to inspire others to become more active in charity work by sharing stories of social responsibility. Today’s interview comes on the heels of International Day of the Girl…perfect timing!
Meet Debbie Suenson-Taylor
Debbie runs www.travelproducer.co.uk, a travel agency providing experiential tailored travel for personal and group clients worldwide.
What you do for charity?
“I currently am President of a local London club, part of an international charitable foundation called Zonta International. Founded in 1919, Zonta is a leading global organization of professionals empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy. With more than 30,000 members belonging to more than 1,200 Zonta Clubs in 67 countries and geographic areas, Zontians all over the world volunteer their time, talents and support to local and international service projects, as well as scholarship programs aimed at fulfilling Zonta’s mission and objects. Their aim is to improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women at the global and local level through service and advocacy. To work for the advancement of understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of members. To promote justice and universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. To be united internationally to foster high ethical standards, to implement service programs, and to provide mutual support and fellowship for members who serve their communities, their nations and the world.”
How did this happen?
“I have grown up in a western democratic country and had the opportunity to be well educated, to be healthy and free to do what I want. My daughters are now young adults who have benefited from the same culture. It is difficult to imagine a life that does not offer such freedoms.”
Why is this a good fit for you?
“From my position of privilege it is difficult to image a life that does not offer such freedoms, a life full of risk. I have travelled extensively and meet many amazing women and girls who could achieve so much if they had the freedom and support. What little I can do to improve their position through service and advocacy is making a little, but for an individual, a powerful step up to help them achieve their goals.”
What have you gotten out of it?
“The reward of meeting like minded people, of seeing a smile on the face of someone who you have given an opportunity to, the feeling of giving back.”
What’s your advice to anyone thinking of doing this?
“Think local and find a cause or organisation that fits with your values. Think about what skills you can bring to that body, how much time you have to give and the possible synergies with your network to share and extend the word.”
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Please check back often for more Step it Up interviews,
and get in touch if you would like to share your own story!
