From Fiona Bull...

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU DID SOMETHING FOR THE FIRST TIME?

Ask most people this question and they’ll probably have to think for a while… ask a Circler and she’s bound to have an answer ready! From axe-throwing to burlesque, goat yoga to climbing Snowdon, there is always something new to try during our regular meetings. I love the opportunities Circle gives us to expand our comfort zones - even taking on a role within your club could add to your personal skillset. Doing anything for the first time might feel daunting but it isn’t when you have your girl gang by your side supporting you.

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU MADE A NEW FRIEND?

Most adults admit they find it hard to make new friends. It’s apparently not as easy as when we were kids on the playground when all it took was a ‘I like your shoes’ or ‘do you want to play tag’? But ask a Circler and there’s a strong chance she’ll say “last night” or “last week”. Within Circle, it’s like being a kid all over again and ‘I like your shoes’ still works! We’ve all heard the phrase “Circle is a place where you can walk into a roomful of strangers yet be among friends” and it really is true.

We should be proud of this, but more importantly we shouldn’t keep it to ourselves – so next time you meet a colleague or friend of Circling age, ask them along to your next meeting. And if you’re reading this as a nonmember, this is your sign to #GetInvolved

In my welcome letter to new members, we say “Circling doesn’t begin and end at home – we’re part of a worldwide network of women supporting women.

There are many opportunities to connect with other Circlers and Round Table Family members, from international and national events to online forums.”

Over the year ahead, I’d urge you to say yes to these opportunities, join us for a national event, save up for an international trip or join in online. You never know who you might meet but I can guarantee your life will be richer for it.

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU SAW A PROBLEM AND BECAME PART OF THE SOLUTION?

We’re the social group with a community conscience. We have an international charity – Jood!; a national charity – BBC Children in Need; and a President’s charity – Samaritans (I’ve just completed a 24 hour Talkathon for them… it was tough!). But it’s what our clubs and individual members do in their home area that makes us special, and our strongest clubs are exactly where they should be: at the heart of their local community. From raffles and quizzes to Santa sleighs and epic challenges, I am proud to see the difference we make, day in day out.

My most recent ‘first time’ combined all our best bits! I was travelling to Pärnu, Estonia to join a Ladies Circle International Meeting. Having never travelled abroad alone, it was a big first - as was going to a party in a swimming costume, joining with ladies from across the Nordic countries in a swimming pool (not an inflatable in sight - just a cool DJ and drummer) and it was all rounded off with a charity ice swim – combining our ethos of fun, friendship and fundraising all in one perfect weekend.

This is the real beauty of our association: its ability to expand our comfort zone and open a world of friendship. It makes me proud to be your President and even prouder to say #IAmCircle

Yours in friendship