Joyce Bourne- Oxfam Ireland Trustee

Joyce had worked for over 30 years in diplomacy and public service, serving in senior positions in the Foreign Service of Barbados.

“I was looking for an opportunity where I could use my experience and my skillset to contribute to an organisation involved in promoting sustainable development globally, focusing on improving people's lives, eradicating poverty and social injustice and protecting the environment.” says Joyce. 

Oxfam Ireland fit the description, and Joyce was appointed to the Board in September 2021.

“Oxfam Ireland’s work to fight inequality, poverty and injustice and to advocate on issues of climate justice really resonated with me and I knew it would be a good fit for me,” she continues. 

Joyce speaks of the “rewarding experience” she has had serving on the Board and the “dedication and the professionalism of the staff as well as the skills and expertise of my (her) fellow Board members.”

But the most rewarding aspect of the role for Joyce is seeing the “tangible impact that the programmes funded and supported by Oxfam Ireland have on the lives” (of those living in poverty). 

“This inspires me to remain hopeful that these seemingly intractable challenges can be resolved,” notes Joyce. 

Joyce’s positive outlook is supported by the knowledge that Oxfam Ireland is helping those who need it most. In terms of challenges, Joyce identifies organisational complexities. 

“Perhaps one of the more challenging aspects of the role has been appreciating the complexities involved in the functioning of the Oxfam confederation, of which Oxfam Ireland is a part,” she says.

The world is littered with pressing issues right now, including inequality, injustice, poverty, conflict and the climate crisis and Joyce notes that the are all interlinked. 

“Foremost among them is the climate crisis, which disproportionally impactsthe most vulnerable and impoverished, those least able to cope with its effects,” says Joyce.

“I am proud of the role Oxfam Ireland is playing in contributing to addressing these challenges. 

“A solution will require creativity and a systemic approach involving individuals, communities, governments, civil society, the private sector - in short, everyone.”