On 23 February, OWIT UK hosted its Annual General Meeting, bringing together members and Board representatives to reflect on progress and formally welcome our new Vice President Board members.

This year’s AGM was intentionally focused, efficient and impact-led. As part of the meeting, each Vice President delivered a short update structured around three key elements: one headline achievement, one measurable impact, and one capability strengthened for the future.

Across portfolios, we heard powerful reflections on the tangible progress made over the past four years — from expanding participation and strengthening strategic partnerships, to increasing stakeholder engagement and reinforcing OWIT UK’s governance and operational foundations. The updates highlighted not just what has been delivered, but how the organisation has matured in credibility, influence and capability.

Importantly, each reflection looked beyond metrics to sustainability: what has been embedded, improved or built to ensure continuity and momentum into the next Board term. From stronger systems and clearer governance structures to enhanced brand positioning and institutional partnerships, the foundations for future growth are firmly in place.

The AGM marked both a moment of accountability and transition. As we welcome our new Vice Presidents, we do so with confidence in the strength of the platform they inherit — and with ambition for the next chapter of OWIT UK’s impact.

Please join us in congratulating and welcoming:

• Véronique Rapetti, appointed Co-President of OWIT UK, serving alongside Noreen Burroughes Cesareo MBE – President of OWIT UK and OWIT International
• Elsie Etienne – Marketing & Promotions VP, OWIT UK; Export Control and Customs Specialist, Vattenfall
• Patricia Kenneth-Devine – Secretariat VP, OWIT UK; President Global Protocol and Diplomatic Network
• Divya Rajan – Membership VP, OWIT UK; Executive Director, Treeco Commodities UK Ltd)

The full Board is as follows. Profiles may be viewed on the OWIT UK Executive Committee Page:

Noreen Burroughes Cesareo MBE – President

Véronique Rapetti – Co President

Fiorina Mugione – VP International Development

Nicole Pitter Patterson – VP Partnerships

Fungia Samushonga – Co-VP Partnerships

Elisabeth Spry – VP Marketing

Elena Molinari – VP Events and Programming

Thank you to our Board, our Advisory Boad, Chapter members and UK and global supporters for your continued commitment to advancing women in international trade.

We look forward to building on this momentum together.