The Board of CISV International has appointed Tanya Perez Echeverria as our new Secretary General. Tanya should officially start in the role in mid-March, allowing for a transition with Gabrielle Mandell, our departing Secretary General.

Tanya Perez Echeverria

Tanya is an engineer with a Masters in Business Administration and with a background in banking, corporate finance and relationship management. She switched from the corporate life a few years ago for a path within the NGO sector to bring together her experience and values in the same setting. She strongly believes in making a positive impact on the world and guiding her family by example.

Tanya joins us from the Jane Goodall Institute, where she was President of the Belgian Chapter and will remain involved as a Trustee for the Global organization.

Tanya is Venezuelan, lives in Belgium, is married and a mum to three CISV boys. And, when she’s not doing the day-job, you’ll find her either volunteering, scuba diving, running, travelling, hiking or spending time with friends – and of course being a mum to her 3 boys.

“I’m delighted to be offered this opportunity to be CISV International’s new Secretary General. I know from first-hand experience as a CISV mum and volunteer with CISV Belgium how vital the work of CISV is and the real difference it can make to a young person’s life. I believe in educating and influencing youth as future leaders and citizens of the world; and I cannot wait to start working with all our staff, volunteers and Members. Together, we can spread our mission and values around the world, even during these challenging times.”

Of the appointment, Einav Dinur, Chair of the Governing Board said: “We believe that Tanya’s combination of charity and business background, together with her deep passion for CISV will make her a fantastic leader for our organization. We’re delighted to welcome her to the CISV family and look forward to her officially starting her role.”