Announcement: new CEO joins Safe Passage

We’re pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Wanda Wyporska as Interim CEO at Safe Passage International, taking the helm from Beth Gardiner-Smith who is leaving the organisation after seven years.

As the granddaughter of a Polish refugee and the daughter of the Windrush generation, Wanda is a passionate supporter of justice for refugees and people seeking safety. She has worked with grassroots refugee charities and campaigned against the closure of camps in Calais in the media.  

Wanda said of joining Safe Passage: “I am really looking forward to leading such a crucial and vibrant organisation, that campaigns for refugee rights and supports unaccompanied children to hug and hold their families again.  

“In the last week, we have seen more tragic loss of life in the Channel, including a seven-year-old girl who had hopes, dreams and a whole life ahead of her. All whilst this Government and those across Europe continue to close the door on refugees – dehumanising people and denying them basic compassion in the process.  

“Safe Passage is fighting for that to change. Coming from a refugee and migrant family, I know just how important it is for people fleeing war and persecution to be able to reunite with loved ones and to have safe ways they can reach protection.”  

Wanda is an experienced charity chief executive and social justice campaigner, having led the Black Equity Organisation, the Society of Genealogists and The Equality Trust. She has also been a part of numerous advisory boards, including for the Mayor of London’s Recovery Board, the ONS Inclusive Data Taskforce, the NUS Poverty Commission, the Sex Education Forum advisory panel, and has given evidence before the Select Committee on Women and Equalities.  

Recognised as one of 21 to watch in 2021 by Charity Times and as Best Charity CEO on Social Media in 2020, she is also currently a trustee of the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and the National Football Museum.