The first DA Abroad France AGM took place at The Club, in Paris on the 11 May 2016. While only a few were in attendance, this event marked the start of the first DA Abroad National Organising Committee (NOC) in France, and we are very excited at the prospect of this network growing from strength to strength.
The AGM commenced with an introduction from the current Country Representative for France, Ross Taverner, welcome attendees. This was followed by a brief discussion on DA Abroad membership and the opportunities available those interested to get involved.
A report on the DA Abroad’s activities for France in 2015 was presented by volunteer, Mary Paccard, after which the election results for the DA Abroad France National Organising Committee were announced.
The 2016 DA Abroad France National Organising Committee are as follows:
Chairperson – Ross Taverner
Deputy Chairperson – Mary Paccard
Ordinary Committee Member – Anthony de Rauville
Members in attendance were then given the opportunity to put forward any motions they would like considered. Only one motion was put forward – to co-opt member, Anthony de Rauville as NOC Treasurer. This motion was accepted by all members in attendance.
The meeting was concluded at 20:15 by Mary Paccard.
DA Abroad France Annual report 2015/6
Country Representatives: Ross Taverner
Supporting volunteer: Mary Paccard and Annelise Baltera
Activities for the Previous Year
Networking Sessions: Ross Taverner arranged a networking session in April, bringing together many South Africans in Paris and introducing them to the DA in France.
Youth Day Braai: Mary Paccard hosted a group of South Africans at her home for a braai to celebrate South African Youth Day. We had a lively discussion on many aspects of South Africa.
Rugby World Cup Viewing and Networking Session: Mary Paccard and Annelise Baltera arranged a group of DA supporters to watch the South Africa versus Scotland World Cup rugby match and enjoy a drink and networking session after.
Christmas Season Dinner: Mary Paccard once again hosted a group of South Africans for dinner at her home. We provided details on what the DA Abroad activities in France were and took ideas and questions about future activities. Many supporters expressed desire to be involved and to participate in future events.
Membership Drive: The drive to sign up DA members started at the Christmas Season dinner and continued through 2016. To date the DA Abroad have 8 members in France
DA Activities in South Africa: Ross Taverner attended the DA Congress in Port Elizabeth in May 2015. It was a richly rewarding experience to see politics in action, to witness the passion of DA people on the ground and to elect a new leader Mmusi Maimane.
Download DA Abroad France Annual Report 2015 >>
Download DA Abroad France 2016 AGM Agenda >>