The 2023 Annual General Meeting was a momentous occasion for Eurodiaconia, as it welcomed five newly elected board members to its team, alongside two existing members – Christian Pavel and Rollaug Waaler – who represented their organizations and countries. With their diverse perspectives, expertise, and experience, the new board members are poised to make significant contributions to Eurodiaconia’s mission of promoting social justice and solidarity across Europe.

One of the newly elected board members and chairperson is Olli Holmstrom, CEO of the Deaconess Foundation in Finland. With over 30 years of experience in social and health care services, Holmstrom brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the Eurodiaconia board. His involvement in international diaconal work and service on the board of the Deaconess Foundation, demonstrate his commitment to promoting social justice and solidarity in Europe.

Cristian Pavel vice-chairperson, representing Filantropia Timișoara in Romania, brings extensive experience in project management, fundraising, and social work to the Eurodiaconia board. His knowledge of the Romanian social sector and his involvement in projects related to social inclusion, child protection, and elderly care will be a valuable asset to Eurodiaconia as it seeks to expand its reach and impact in Eastern Europe.

Agnieszka Jelinek treasurer, representing Diaconia Poland, has extensive experience in the social and health care sector, with expertise in project management, fundraising, and social work. Her involvement in various organizations in Poland will be an asset to Eurodiaconia as it seeks to expand its reach and impact in Central and Eastern Europe.

Alessandro Esposito, representing Diaconia Valdese in Italy, has significant experience in both the public and private sectors, with expertise in strategic planning and financial management. As Eurodiaconia navigates the evolving landscape of social and health care services in Europe, Esposito’s knowledge will be essential to ensure the organization continues to make a meaningful impact.

Malte Lindenthal, representing Diakonie Deutschland, has a wealth of experience in advocacy and public policy. His involvement in numerous advocacy campaigns at the national and European level demonstrates his dedication to promoting social justice and solidarity in Europe. His knowledge and experience will be particularly valuable as Eurodiaconia seeks to influence policy and decision-making.

Alfredo Abad, representing the Iglesia Evangélica Española in Spain, brings extensive experience in pastoral care and social work to the Eurodiaconia board. His commitment to diaconal projects in Spain and Europe and his expertise in pastoral care and social work will be particularly valuable as Eurodiaconia seeks to promote holistic and integrated approaches to social and health care services.

Rollaug Waaler, representing the Haroldsplass Foundation in Norway, brings expertise in leadership, organizational development, and strategic planning. Her experience in various positions in the social and health care sector for over 25 years will be a valuable asset to Eurodiaconia as it seeks to strengthen its organizational capacity and impact.

“The diversity and expertise of the newly elected board members of Eurodiaconia represent the organization’s commitment to promoting social justice and solidarity in Europe. Their leadership and guidance will undoubtedly contribute to expanding Eurodiaconia’s reach and impact, and ensure that the organization continues to be a strong voice for vulnerable and marginalized groups in the region.” – Heather Roy, Eurodiaconia Secretary General.