Ladies and Gentlemen,

Happy New Year!
2026 is here—a year full of opportunities… but also uncertainties.

Changes are sweeping across countries and industries, especially in the sectors we care about most: Logistics and Transport.

 

First, let us extend a warm welcome to CILT International’s new President, Jan Steenberg, and new President Elect Romesh David.  We look forward to working closely with him to advance our shared vision.

 

In times like these, we are grateful for WiLAT—a strong platform where we support each other, share knowledge, and grow together.

This is the moment when your leadership matters most.
It is your guidance that will help people navigate through uncertainty.

 

To succeed, we must embrace three key principles:

• Agility – Respond quickly and effectively to disruptions.

• Flexibility – Adapt to changing circumstances and new realities.

• Precision – Communicate clearly and accurately to avoid panic and confusion.

These qualities will define how we lead in 2026.

 

At the same time, we need to build our capacity to manage the unexpected.

In the world of uncertainty, resilience is key.  We must strengthen our supply chains and operational bases, maintain a healthy ecosystem, and leverage each other’s expertise to ride through turbulent times.

 

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” reminds us that collaboration and generosity will lead to shared success.

 

Looking ahead, mark your calendars for ICM 2026 in Hong Kong, September 20–23.  Special thanks to WiLAT Hong Kong Chairperson Cheris, who is planning a unique experience for our members.

 

Although my role has evolved, WiLAT remains a vital forum within CILT for continuous development.  We thank Gayani for holding the fort as Interim Global Chair, and we look forward to working closely with the next Global Chair to deliver the 2026 agenda.

 

Let’s embrace this year with optimism and resilience.

Here’s to a year of health, wealth, and success for all of us!

 

Thank you.