Nominations Committee Member (Bolivia – Latin America)

Yuleisi Beltrán Chirinos was born in Tarija, Bolivia, on 1 October 2004. In the academic field, she was recognised by the Bolivian Government as a Bachelor of Excellence (2021) and obtained a technical degree in Tourism and Hospitality. She is currently consolidating her academic endeavours as an outstanding fifth-semester civil engineering student at the Tomás Frías Autonomous University in the city of Potosí.

Since childhood, she has cultivated a deep commitment to serving society. In 2014, she was vice president of the Municipal Children’s Council, and, in 2015, she joined the Advisory Council for Children and Adolescents of Potosí, which reports to the Ombudsman’s Office. In 2019, she was recognised by the Mayor’s Office of Potosí as a Reading and Cultural Management Mediator. Her work as a volunteer with the Christian Women’s Association (ACF-YWCA) of Potosí began in 2009 as a junior member. Since then, she has participated in numerous courses and creative workshops organised by the association. She has been part of the ACF protocol team for the presentation of the Miss Potosí 2024 Social Project and collaborated in the organisation of the II Extraordinary Congress of the National ACF of Bolivia ‘Blanca Villavicencio Calderón’ (2022, virtual mode). She also attended the National Congress of the YWCA Bolivia (2023) and represented Bolivia as a full delegate at the YWCA World Council held in South Africa (2019).

Yuleisi reflects a genuine vocation for community work, leading solidarity initiatives at the YWCA Bolivia in cultural, scientific, educational and recreational spaces. She is distinguished by her organisational skills, social sensitivity and transformative leadership.

Nomination Committee Member (Zimbabwe – Africa)

Queen (they/them/theirs) is a social worker and a Development Practitioner skilled in research and consultancy, a social and gender justice advocate with years of experience in championing SRHR, particularly access to comprehensive differentiated health care services for gender diverse persons, adolescents, girls and women in local, regional and global platforms.

Queen has been involved in the YWCA movement for more than seven years, serving as a leader for two terms at their local YWCA and has just been elected to the World YWCA nominations committee. In the YWCA movement, Queen has been instrumental in coordinating and implementing strategies and campaigns to promote visibility within the local and national organisation, development of technical content for proposals for partner engagement as well and facilitating topical discussions for youths that entail mental health, SOGIEC, climate change etc.

Nomination Committee Member (Egypt – Middle East)

Magda Barsoum, a passionate advocate for youth, women, and social justice, brings over three decades of diverse experience to her role. With a background deeply rooted in the YWCA, she earned a master’s degree from Oxford University, UK, laying a solid foundation for her lifelong commitment to community development.

During her tenure at the US Embassy in Cairo, Magda led cultural and educational programs focusing on marginalised communities. In retirement, she directed USAID projects, championing civic education and children’s and women’s rights.

As a board member of YWCA Cairo, Magda promotes a democratic approach, prioritising the recruitment and empowerment of young women. She advocates for remote engagement and skill-building incentives to overcome barriers to participation.

Magda’s ultimate goal is to see more women in leadership roles across sectors, guided by principles of inclusivity and tolerance. Her tireless efforts underscore her dedication to fostering a more equitable society, making her a vital asset to the YWCA and the broader social justice movement.

Nomination Committee Chair (Greece – Europe)

Ms. Olga Gkini was born in Thessaloniki. She is an active lawyer in civil and criminal law, a graduate of the Law School of the Democritus University of Thrace. Since 2007, she has been a volunteer member of the local YWCA Centre in Thessaloniki, where she supported the Social Service with her specialisation. She was elected a member of the Executive Committee of the YWCA of Greece, and from 2012 to 2018, she served as its Treasurer. In 2018, she was elected President of the national YWCA. Her presidency was renewed in 2021 for another three-year term, which ended in March 2024.

Guided by the collective and bold vision of the movement, its principles, values, and history, during her tenure, in collaboration with the organisation’s staff – volunteers and professionals – she ensured the investment of resources – human and financial – in the digital transition of the administration and operation, in maintaining high standards of good governance and transparency, in the optimal utilisation of its real estate, in providing quality services to women, and in implementing projects aimed at protecting the organisation’s intellectual capital so that the YWCA in Greece could transition fully equipped to the new century of its significant presence.

The Executive Board of YWCA of Greece, recognising her experience in women’s issues in Greece, her contribution to the visibility and recognition of the movement in social affairs, and her expertise in national law, appointed her as its advisor on advocacy issues, among other issues.

Nomination Committee Member (India- Asia)

Meet CA Ann Joseph (she/her/hers), a dynamic leader and accomplished Chartered Accountant whose journey embodies professional excellence, academic achievement, and community service.

As Managing Partner of Jose Maruthathu & Co., Ann steers the firm with integrity and professionalism, backed by extensive educational credentials, including a BCom degree, Company Secretary (CS Inter), and Chartered Accountant (CA) qualifications.

Born into a family of achievers, Ann carries forward her father’s legacy as the founder of Jose Maruthathu & Co., driven by a strong work ethic and a commitment to making a difference.

Deeply engaged in community service, Ann’s presidency at JCI Pathanamthitta Queens in 2022 saw her spearheading initiatives like establishing an open gym free for the public, earning her recognition with two National and four Zone Awards, including Outstanding President of the Zone.

Beyond her professional and community roles, Ann has been actively involved in the YWCA movement since childhood, serving as Secretary and Youth board member. She also contributes as a Finance Committee member of the Church of South India, Central Kerala Diocese, and National Finance Committee member of JCI INDIA, showcasing her commitment to financial stewardship and organisational excellence.

With a passion for excellence and service, CA Ann Joseph inspires through leadership and a dedication to positive impact.