Shoko Doherty, a returning board member who has served as vice-chair for the past two years and under the association's rules, has now become Chair. Shoko, CEO of Celtic English Academy and a mother of three, champions a more inclusive ELT sector. In recent years she helped to expand the Youth Mobility Scheme quota for Japan, was recognised as the Welsh Government's Export Exemplar and the UK Export Champion and won her school the Fair Play Employer Gold award. 'I'd like us to celebrate what we do every day: teaching English, providing communication tools, and bridging gaps for our students—a life-changing opportunity. Our core mission is inspiring, yet somehow overshadowed by the issues and challenges we face. I want our sector to take pride in our accomplishments and collaborate more effectively to thrive for future generations.'

Fiona Dunlop, principal of Wimbledon School of English, has been joint chair of BEUK, vice chair of LONDOSA and worked closely with the British Council on projects including co-authoring the initial CPD framework for teachers and managers. 'I believe strongly in ELT for all and was involved in the introduction of RefuAid to English UK with the aim of providing support and scholarships to refugees. As a member of the board, I would bring profound knowledge of quality improvement and school development. I am collaborative, realistic and good at identifying opportunities and building networks. I love the industry and, if successful, I will be able to direct my skills and experience for the benefit of members as we move into a challenging and even more competitive environment.'

James Herbertson, co-founder of Bayswater Education, a social enterprise in international education comprises 10 year-round colleges and 7 summer camps in the UK, France, Cyprus, Canada and South Africa. For every student Bayswater teaches, they teach another from a disadvantaged background. He co-founded accommodation agency London Nest, is a former Chair of English UK London and is on the BETA board. 'The ELT sector faces stiff competition from global destinations, rising costs, and the challenge of recruiting staff and host families. Yet within these challenges lie opportunities for growth and innovation, notably through schemes like Youth Mobility that bring work rights, shifts away from pure English language to soft skill development and the formation of partnerships internationally.'

Justin Quinn, CEO of Centre of English Studies with five UK year-round schools, two in Canada and one in Dublin, Ireland. Justin is vice president of membership of IALC, has been a past chair and board member of EAQUALS (9 years) and has served on the boards of MEI and ACELS in Ireland. 'I would very much like to contribute to the strategy and direction of English UK over the next few years. I have been involved with the EFL sector for over 35 years and have a wealth of experience in all areas of the sector. I feel that I can bring my experience and knowledge to the board and help the association to grow and develop. Over the years I have had many dealings with government at the highest levels and am comfortable dealing with difficult situations.'

Victoria Paterson, International Business Manager at Edinburgh College. Originally from New Zealand, Victoria has worked in the international education sector for over a decade and has leadership and operational management experience in recruitment, marketing, business development, strategy development, policy, compliance and student support. 'I believe I can bring a unique voice to the board with my FE sector background, and positively contribute to growing English UK membership so that we can provide an even stronger voice for the sector and advocate for the change we need to grow and succeed.'