The Commonwealth Foundation works to advance the interests and needs of the people of the Commonwealth, through a rich combination of grants, platforms and partnerships.
The Foundation has always involved civil society closely in our work. We continue this fine tradition through our Civil Society Advisory Governors. This mechanism—known simply as CSAG—brings civil society representatives from each region of the Commonwealth into the heart of our work: standing shoulder to shoulder with our Member States in advancing the Foundation’s mission and shaping our future direction.
In 2022 the Foundation conducted a comprehensive review of the CSAG mechanism, which has now been in existence for many decades. Our goal was to reinvigorate CSAG in ways that matched the Foundation’s own path of growth. Under the new terms of reference that emerged from the review, we sought governors whose background and experience ensure they will make a genuine contribution to the Foundation’s programming, and whose connections will enable them to become champions of the Foundation and of Commonwealth values within their regions and networks.
The 2023-2025 CSAG cohort completed their terms of service. On behalf of the People of the Commonwealth we thank Dr Helen Kezie-Nwoha (Africa), Safaath Ahmed Zahir (Asia), Darrion Narine (Caribbean), Mario Gerada (Europe), and Dr Justin Koonin (Pacific) for their stellar contribution to the work of the Foundation.
We are delighted to announce that the Foundation’s Board of Governors has approved the appointment of the following persons as our Civil Society Advisory Governors for a two-year term from June 2025 to June 2027.
Dr Stellah Bosire (Africa)
Dr Stellah Bosire, for Africa, is a doctor, lawyer, and advocate for equity and human rights. Her work spans health policy, gender justice, and climate activism, and she has engaged directly with both grassroots movements and global institutions. With deep ties to civil society networks across the continent—and as a board member of CIVICUS—she brings a valuable regional perspective and a sharp understanding of participatory governance.
Jacqueline Wong (Asia)
Representing Asia, Jacqueline Wong is a passionate advocate for public health and social equity. She has led regional efforts to address non-communicable diseases and support ageing populations, while also contributing to global conversations on social justice and development. Her experience in policy forums ranging from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to the United Nations and the Group of Twenty will ensure she can bring a valuable regional and global lens to the Foundation’s work.
Richardo Aiken (Caribbean and the Americas)
For the Caribbean and Americas, Richardo Aiken joins us a dynamic leader in youth and community engagement, with extensive experience designing initiatives that amplify local voices and promote inclusive development. He has worked with civil society organisations across the Caribbean and supported policy engagement through regional institutions. His collaborative approach and strong regional ties will be key as we prepare for the next Commonwealth People’s Forum in the Caribbean.
Dr Ilke Dağlı-Hustings (Europe)
For Europe, Dr Ilke Dağlı-Hustings brings extensive experience as a peacebuilder and development expert who has spent nearly 20 years advancing social cohesion and civic participation. As the Director-General of The Centre for Sustainable Peace and Democratic Development (SeeD), she has led projects that centre community voices in policymaking across Europe and beyond. Her combination of practical experience and systems-level thinking adds a valuable dimension to the Foundation’s engagement with European civil society.
Fuimaono Vaitolo Ofoia (Pacific)
And finally, for the Pacific, Fuimaono Ofoia is the Director of the Samoa Umbrella for Non-Governmental Organisations (SUNGO), where he works to strengthen civil society participation in shaping public policy. He brings a strong track record of regional collaboration on issues such as climate resilience, civic rights, and inclusive governance. Having played a key role in the delivery of the 2024 People’s Forum, he is well-placed to help shape the path to 2026.
Our new Civil Society Advisory Governors will play a critical role in the years ahead: not only advising on the Foundation’s continuous improvement, but also by contributing to the development of the programme for the next Commonwealth People’s Forum that will be held in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026.
The diversity and richness that our Civil Society Advisory Governors bring to our organisation will ensure that we remain connected and relevant; they are, after all, our bridge to the people of the Commonwealth—and we are committed to learning from them so they can guide and inspire our work.
You can find out more about our Governance and download the CSAG Terms of Reference here.
