As we enter the final month of the board year and look ahead to welcoming the 2026/27 Board at our Annual General Meeting on 10 June, I’ve naturally been in a reflective mood. If you’d like to hear more about the year, please do register and join us.
I’m incredibly proud of the 2025/26 Board and everything we’ve achieved together. From our thriving (and growing!) communities to new partnerships, recognition, and standout events, there’s so much to celebrate. My thanks to the entire board for their commitment and hard work. I’m excited to continue supporting the board next year as I step into the role of Past Chair.
On the topic of communities, I’m delighted to welcome Kim Strickland as our new Community Lead for the Netherlands. I’ve already had some great conversations with Kim and know she’ll bring fantastic energy to the role. Thank you for volunteering your time and expertise – I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next.
For those heading to the IABC World Conference in Toronto next month, I’m very much looking forward to seeing you at our Region Reception. Once again, EMENA is teaming up with our APAC and Africa colleagues to bring our regions together on Monday, 15 June. The event is free for IABC members, with a small fee for non-members from our region. Please register so we can plan numbers – it’s always a highlight.
My final thank you is to all of you. I hope you’ve been able to make the most of IABC this year, whether as a member or a valued friend. And I hope we can count on your continued support in the year ahead.
Simon Cavendish, SCMP®
Chair, IABC EMENA