FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

50/50 Group UK Appoints New Leadership During Annual Lesley  Abdela Mentorship Retreat in Burwash 

Burwash , East Sussex - 11 JULY 2025

The 50/50 Group UK and Ireland is pleased to announce the appointment of new executive  leadership, following a successful Annual Lesley Abdela Mentorship Retreat held in  Burwash, East Sussex on the 10th July 2025.

In a significant leadership transition, Ms. Salome Hydes was elected as the 4th  President of the UK and Ireland  Chapter, receiving 23 votes, while Ms. Jammie Koroma was elected  Vice President with 20 votes. Their appointments represent a renewed commitment to  the group’s founding principles of gender equality, political participation, and  community development. 

The retreat, named in honour of Lesley Abdela —a pioneering advocate for women’s  political representation provided a platform for reflection, strategic planning, and  capacity building. The event was hosted in Burwash, a village rich in cultural and  historical significance, notably known as the home of author Rudyard Kipling. 

About the Newly Elected Vice President – Madam. Jammie Koroma 

Mrs. Jammie Koroma, a UK-born healthcare professional with roots in Sierra Leone, brings over 27  years of combined experience in midwifery and public health. She holds a Bachelor  of Science in Midwifery and a Master of Science in Public Health and currently works  as a locum specialist midwifery practitioner at Ashford & St. Peter’s NHS Foundation  Trust. 

She is the Founder and CEO of Women with Vision, an organisation dedicated to  supporting survivors of FGM and advocating for women’s health and wellbeing. Her  extensive community engagement includes leadership roles in several organisations,  including Harford Ex-Pupils Association (HEPA UK&I), APC Diaspora 6th Region  Women’s Congress, and the Well Body Group. 

“I am humbled by this appointment and ready to serve with dedication. Advancing the  rights of women and girls is not a privilege—it is a necessity for democratic growth and  social equity,” Koroma stated. 

Reflections and Remarks from Global Leaders 

Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker, Founder and Global President of the 50/50 Group,  extended her congratulations stating  “This is a defining moment for the UK Branch. I encourage our new leaders to work  collaboratively, strengthen membership, and broaden the impact of our work. Together,  we are stronger.” 

Veteran legal expert and human rights advocate Yasmin Jusu-Sheriff delivered a  powerful message on political accountability and grassroots inclusion. 

“We must encourage communities to freely select their parliamentary representatives,  rather than have candidates imposed through party structures. Our fight for gender  equality must be rooted in justice, truth, and the rule of law.”

Honouring Contributions to Girls’ Education 

During the retreat, the group recognized Dr. Rajiv Bendre, former Director of the British  Council, with a special presentation for his long standing advocacy of girls’ education  and women’s empowerment. 

“Investing in girls’ education and leadership is critical to sustainable development. Let  us continue to support their journey into public service, where they can become agents  of change,” Dr. Bendre noted. 

About the Lesley Abdela Mentorship Annual Retreat 

The annual retreat serves as a platform to: 

• Evaluate progress and identify challenges in women’s political participation

• Deliver leadership development and mentorship programmes

• Facilitate partnerships with NGOs and civil society groups

• Develop action plans for environmental leadership, education, and community  wellbeing 

This year’s retreat also featured collaborative sessions focused on policy advocacy,  environmental awareness, and inclusive governance. 

Media Contact: Agnes Pratt  - Secretary General, 50/50 Group UK and Ireland 

Email: fiftyfiftygroupuki@gmail.com

Images captured on our Annual Lesley Abdela Mentorship Retreat