(2nd row L-R: L. Laroche, C. Belaro, A. Bayudan, L. Tripoli, I. Lehmann,
1st row L-R: V. Cattermole, P. Shah)
The FWA-UK conducted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) which was held on Saturday, 28th September 2024 at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel & Simon Stock Church Hall, 41 Kensington Church St, London W8 4BB.
The programme started with a prayer led by Patricia Shah, followed by the Chairman’s and Treasurer’s reports and members’ Q&As.
Review of Accomplishments
The AGM commenced with a comprehensive review of the FWA-UK’s achievements over the past year. Members were presented with a detailed report highlighting the association’s successes in fostering professional development, networking opportunities, and advocacy for Filipina women in the UK. Notable events included a well-attended Christmas party, a successful Founding Day and Salo-Salo event that raised over £1,200, the annual Philippine National Day Fundraising Gala, and a memorable Away Day in the Cotswolds.
Engaging Discussions and Q&A
The AGM provided a platform for open dialogue and exchange of ideas. Members actively participated in discussions on various topics, including the association’s strategic direction, upcoming initiatives, and opportunities for member engagement. The Q&A session allowed members to seek clarifications and share their perspectives directly with the board. The meeting also covered updates on various committee activities, including outreach programs, educational initiatives, and fundraising efforts.
Special acknowledgements were also made for the Officers and Trustees who have completed their terms or have resigned:
- Linda Challis, Vice-Chairman for Internal Affairs
- Wilma Lone, Vice-Chairman for External Affairs
- Celerina Grosser, Treasurer
- Celia Herrera, Membership Committee Chair
- Imee Pinto, Fundraising Committee Chair
Election of the New Executive Board
A key highlight of the AGM was the election of the new Executive Board. The members cast their votes, both in person and via proxy, to select the individuals who will lead the FWA-UK in the coming year.
The election was conducted and supervised by current Adviser former Chairman Nenita Garrad, along with members Arlene Morley, Jeannette Thomson, Eleanor Templeman, and Elsie De Jesus. As the number of nominees were less than the number of positions open, the attending members opted to skip the election process and voted for all nominees to be board officers.
After the election, the elected and current members of the Board held a special meeting and formed a new set of officers for 2024 – 2025.
Please welcome the new Executive Board of 2024-2025:
| Chairman | Velly Cattermole |
| Vice-Chairman | Amor Bayudan |
| Secretary | Ira Lehmann |
| Assistant Secretary | Lesley Laroche |
| Treasurer | Christian Belaro |
| Assistant Treasurer | TBC |
| Education & Scholarship Grants Committee Lead | Ira Lehmann |
| Fundraising Committee Lead | Jeannette Thomson |
| Membership & Personal Development Committee Lead | Lisa Tripoli |
| Outreach & Community Affairs Lead | Patricia Shah |
| Publicity Committee | Christian Belaro (interim) |
We extend our warmest congratulations to the newly elected board members and wish them every success in their roles.
