12 members in total - two representatives from each of the six regions - were selected by delegates from around the world. In addition, one seat is held by a representative of Austria, appointed in recognition of SOS Children’s Villages’ founding roots.
The new board replaces the former International Senate and will serve as the supervisory body of the federation, responsible for ensuring compliance, overseeing executive leadership, approving strategic and financial plans, and supporting the effective implementation of the resolutions of the General Assembly - the federation’s highest decision-making body.
Members of the International Board:
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West and Central Africa: Seynabou Diop Traore (Mali), Mohamed Megdich (Tunisia)
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Fixed Seat – Austria: Andreas Kovar (Austria)
The newly elected members chose Mr. Parisi, the Italian representative, to be Chair of the International Board, while Luis Martins of Bolivia was selected to be Vice President.
“As I take on this new role, I do so with a deep commitment to every child and young person without parental care or at risk of losing it,” said Mr. Parisi in remarks after the General Assembly. “Whether through direct support or through advocacy to mobilize those who can make a difference, I will work tirelessly to ensure that no child is left without the love, protection, and opportunity they deserve.”
Mr. Parisi noted that the mission of SOS Children’s Villages is not just something he believes in, but something he has lived as a former programme participant. “I know firsthand the transformative power of a loving home and a community that believes in you. My journey from growing up in an SOS Children's Villages home to now serving as Chair of the Board is a testament to the impact of our work and the promise it holds for every child we serve.”
In addition to electing the International Board, the General Assembly selected Rana AlZoubi, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages in Jordan, as Chair of the General Assembly, and Joyce Pomaa Agyare of Ghana as Vice Chair. Their election reflects the federation’s commitment to regional diversity and inclusive leadership.
The General Assembly also elected members to the Election Committee, the Compliance Committee, and the Membership and Assembly Organizing Committee.
This governance reform is a key outcome of the federation’s wider transformation and organizational redesign that aim for long-term sustainability in working towards a common goal – for each child and young person to have the support they need to grow into their strongest selves.
Presidential reflections on the transition
The 23rd General Assembly took place in Vienna from 26 to 28 June 2025, bringing together delegates from SOS Children’s Villages member associations worldwide.
In his final speech to the Assembly, Dereje Wordofa, the outgoing President of SOS Children’s Villages International, said that the newly elected leadership now holds the responsibility of advancing reforms, testing their effectiveness, and making necessary adjustments going forward.
“Over the past years, we have embarked on a bold journey of reform to strengthen our federation. We have worked tirelessly to modernize our governance and election processes, enhance the relevance and efficiency of the General Secretariat, streamline policies and requirements for our members, and bolster national governance structures. To remain a force for good, we must evolve while staying true to our mission: ensuring that no child grows up alone,” Mr. Wordofa said.