IAPA 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) Recap

General Assembly, News, Uncategorized 10 days ago

Looking Back & Moving Forward: Highlights from the 2025 IAPA AGM

The IAPA Annual General Meeting took place on 19 March 2025 at the Alicante Golf Hotel in Spain, during WETM-IAC.

IAPA Chair Michael McHugh opening the 2025 IAPA AGM

IAPA Chair Michael McHugh welcomed members, reflecting on the resilience of the au pair sector and the power of unity in times of global uncertainty.

After confirming quorum and approving the 2024 minutes, the stage was set for a dynamic and future-focused session.

2024 in Review: Events, Advocacy & Community

Events & Webinars

IAPA Board Member Sarah Kelly

Board Member Sarah Kelly highlighted a year full of engaging activities — from practical webinars (Sprintax Tax, Conflict Resolution, FLOW Speak App) to international contributions like the au pair regulations session at WYSTC Lisbon. A special highlight: International Au Pair Day in November, celebrated across the globe and followed by our cheerful Jingle Mingle in December.

Managing Director Patricia Brunner shared updates on further activities, social media impact and the International Au Pair Day. She showed a vibrant video featuring member and au pair contributions and invited everyone to join this year’s International Au Pair Day celebration on 24 November 2025.

Watch the 2024 International Au Pair Day Video on You Tube here:

Video teaser picture of saying: International Au Pair Day - This is how you celebrated International Au Pair Day 2024 Around the World

Celebrating Excellence with the 2025 IAPA Au Pair of the Year Award

Award Winner Issy Foster with her parents, her host mother and two representatives of placing organization Cultural Care Au Pair

The IAPA Au Pair of the Year Award was presented to Isabella “Issy” Foster from the UK (sponsored by Cultural Care Au Pair). Conference participants had cheered the happy winner during the WETM-IAC Welcome Reception.

Read our report about the Au Pair of the Year Award winner Issy Foster here.

Advocacy Updates

IAPA remained active on key policy fronts:

USA: Continued support for U.S. sponsors and the Alliance for International Exchange during ongoing regulatory discussions and policy updates.
Germany: Worked with local associations to address visa challenges; further action is planned following government changes.
UK: Raised concerns over unsafe placements under tourist visas and continues to follow EU-UK dialogue around cultural exchange opportunities.

Financial Health & Governance

Treasurer Charlotte Cappa-Domenge reported a solid financial year with a positive result.

Members approved the 2024 accounts, 2025 budget, 2026 fees, and appointed the auditor for 2026.
➡️ View the IAPA 2024 Audited Accounts, 2024 Balance Sheet and 2025 Budget

Board Elections

Congratulations to Sarah Kelly on her re-election to the IAPA Board for another three-year term. A committed and collaborative member, she continues to be an important voice within the team. Chair Michael Mc Hugh acknowledged her contributions and encouraged other members to consider standing for election in the future.

Growing and Celebrating the IAPACommunity

Membership Developments

Board member Kati Mäder presented the IAPA membership developments. IAPA welcomed 11 new members, expanding our global network. While some members exited due to operational changes, we continue to build a strong, committed base — now comprising about 146 member organizations. Five members were disaffiliated due to non-payment.

Honoring Long-Standing Members

We proudly celebrated 21 organizations reaching 10, 15, 20, 25, and even 30 years of IAPA membership. Their loyalty is a testament to the value of being part of our community. Representatives of organizations who were present were honored on stage with certificates of recognition.

Discover the recipients of the IAPA Longstanding Member Awards for 2025.

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond

Our goals for the year ahead focus on strengthening advocacy, supporting members, and growing the network. One key initiative is “IAPA Connect & Grow,” a new referral program introduced by Managing Director Patricia Brunner. Members who invite others to join will receive a 10% discount, as will the new member. Growth will go hand-in-hand with maintaining our high standards and quality assurance.