It is National Trustee Week and what better way for Bethphage to commemorate it than by celebrating one of our very own Trustees 20 years’ service to the charity!

Irena joined Bethphage’s Board of Trustees in 2001, becoming Vice-chair in 2004. With a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Irena has over 30 years’ experience in the private, public and not for profit sectors as a leadership coach and organisational change consultant.

At our recent board meeting, we celebrated Irena’s 20 years’ service and the significant growth of service provision that had been achieved over that time. On behalf of Bethphage, Derek Lum Chair of Trustees, thanked Irena for her fantastic service saying:

“Over the 20 years which you have served as a Trustee, the majority of which has been as Vice Chair, you have played a significant role in Bethphage’s successful growth. Part of this has been leading the recruitment of key management appointments as the Charity has grown. Your experience and clarity of thought has served Bethphage well when key strategic decisions have been required. The importance of Trustees’ experience in their roles has helped the Executive Management Team steer a course through the challenges that Covid-19 has presented. Bethphage, and the board are very fortunate to have your continuing contribution.”

Our Chief Executive Officer, Stef Kay presented Irena with a handmade, personally engraved keepsake box which was created by a local craftsman and carpenter, Tommy Woodpecker Woodworks. Stef thanked her saying:

“Having long standing Trustees gives stability and continuity to the organisation which is so important. You ask our Executive Management Team some really insightful questions, facilitating robust discussion and decision making, and ensuring a high standard of governance.”

Bethphage’s founder and Honorary President, Donna Werner praised Irena’s leadership and reflected on how she has supported the development of the organisation:

“You have made good decisions and been so generous with your time and talent.  I value your contribution professionally and personally. Here is to another 20 years!”

Linda Timmons, CEO of Mosaic (USA), one of Bethphage’s two founding corporate members, joined via Microsoft Teams for our AGM and commented:

“What a remarkable legacy for an organisation that makes a difference every day. On behalf of Mosaic and Bethphage, thank you.”

Irena thanked everyone for their kind words, “I am very touched but you must know that I get more back from being a trustee than I put in.”

Learn more about our Trustees Here…