Announcement on leadership at Safe Passage

We’re delighted to announce the appointment of Magid Magid as Chair of our Board, and Katie Morrison as our Interim CEO during Beth Gardiner-Smith’s parental leave.  

Magid is a Somali-British activist and author who came to the UK as a refugee aged five. He is the Founder & Director of Union of Justice - a European, independent, people of colour led organisation dedicated to racial justice and climate justice. He was a member of the European Parliament representing Yorkshire & the Humber, Mayor of his beloved city, Sheffield, and was also an elected councillor representing his community.  

His main work in the past couple of years has been for climate justice, refugee rights and social justice. Amongst other awards, Magid was named one of TIME’s 100 rising stars shaping the future of the world. 

Magid said of being appointed Chair of the Board: “It's a real pleasure and privilege to be taking on this role at such a crucial time. Safe Passage International is an exceptional charity that has been playing an integral role in improving access to safe routes for refugees as well as creating an environment where they thrive.  

“We have a great team and an excellent vision, and I look forward to playing my part in carrying out vital work and helping build on the amazing effort that has already been happening, especially at a pivotal time when we are witnessing the dehumanisation of refugees in the UK and across Europe." 

Katie is joining us as Interim CEO until January 2024. She comes from Plan International UK where she was part of the executive leadership team and brings her fantastic experience in campaigning on social justice and equity issues, including gender equality, anti-racism and refugee rights.   

Katie said of joining Safe Passage: “Safe Passage is an exciting, ambitious and values-led organisation and I am truly honoured to be a part of the team for the rest of this year.  

“Magid and I are joining at a pivotal time, as doors are closing to refugees across Europe and in the UK the Government is attacking the very right to seek safety with the cruel Refugee Ban Bill. We’re ready to lead the teams in fighting this cruel Bill, campaigning alongside our Young Leaders for safe routes for refugees and continuing to deliver our vital legal work supporting unaccompanied children to find a place of safety.”