After six years of dedicated service, Refugee Action is marking the end of Penny Lawrence’s term as Chair of our Board of Trustees, and welcoming Nankunda Katangaza as our new Chair.
Over the past six years, Penny has led Refugee Action through a period of extraordinary challenge – from shifting political landscapes to unprecedented pressures on the charity sector. Throughout, she has championed our mission with clarity, compassion and unwavering commitment to refugees and people seeking asylum.
Reflecting on her time as Chair, she shared:
“It has been such a privilege to Chair Refugee Action. It’s such a positive force for change in our grim world. The clients I’ve met have so appreciated the kindness and support they’ve received to navigate a way through broken, opaque systems so their families can contribute and thrive. Politicians we’ve lobbied have respected our thorough research and solutions focussed approach. Our 300+ Partners are keen to collaborate with us as we listen and support with principle and thoughtfulness. I’ve worked with many charities and rarely have I seen values lived in the way Refugee Action lives them – such courage, collaboration and always seeking ways to increase the power and voice of experts by experience. Its impact is so significant on every level, and this has all been made possible thanks to our supporters – and is why I’ll remain a lifelong supporter and donor myself.”
We are deeply grateful for her leadership. As we say thank you and farewell, we are proud to welcome Nankunda Katangaza as our new Chair.
Nankunda is Co-founder and Director of Hook Tangaza, a boutique consulting firm specialising in legal services. She has previously held senior roles at the Law Society of England & Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers’ Association, and brings extensive non-executive director experience, including board roles with Co-operative and Community Finance, Brixton House Theatre and International Lawyers for Africa, as well as officer positions in the International Bar Association.
Born in Uganda, Nankunda experienced displacement as a child refugee before settling in the UK.
Reflecting on her appointment, she said:
“My journey from child refugee to small business owner and board chair demonstrates what’s possible when displaced people receive proper support and welcome. I’m honoured to chair Refugee Action at this critical moment because I understand viscerally what’s at stake. In today’s hostile political environment, Refugee Action’s principled advocacy matters more than ever, and I look forward to playing a role in ensuring we remain bold and effective in creating lasting change for refugees and people seeking asylum and building a more welcoming UK.”
At a time of significant political hostility and pressure across the sector, Refugee Action remains committed to its vision – a UK in which every refugee seeking safety can thrive as part of a welcoming and anti-racist society. With a strong leadership team, engaged trustees and a new Chair who brings both lived experience and professional expertise, we are ready to meet this moment and continue standing alongside refugees and people seeking asylum when it matters most.