Ammon News - Rana AlZoubi, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Jordan, has been elected Chair of the General Assembly of SOS Children’s Villages International, the highest decision-making body of the global federation. The election took place in Vienna, Austria, on the 28th of June 2025.

AlZoubi received the highest number of votes among the candidates, becoming the first person to hold this newly established leadership position, created as part of the organization’s recent governance reforms. Her election marks a historic moment for Jordan and the Arab region, and represents one of the highest levels of leadership Jordan has held within the SOS Children’s Villages federation, reflecting the country’s growing influence in child protection and family care.

A milestone for Jordan in global childcare leadership.
This achievement holds special significance as AlZoubi is the first Arab and the first woman to be elected to this role, a meaningful indicator of increasing regional representation and women’s leadership in global governance structures.

The General Assembly is the highest authority within SOS Children’s Villages International. It includes representatives from over 135 national associations across five continents, all of whom have the right to participate and vote. The General Assembly directs decisions relating to the federation’s statutes and elects the International Board of Directors.

AlZoubi’s election is widely seen as international recognition of Jordan’s credibility and leadership in alternative care, family strengthening, and youth empowerment. In her spontaneous speech following the announcement, she stated:
"Thank you for trusting me to chair the General Assembly. I know the task will be challenging, but I promise to do my best to live up to your expectations."

National impact with global recognition
Since assuming the role of National Director in December 2019, AlZoubi has led SOS Children’s Villages Jordan through a period of strategic development and rising international visibility. These achievements have strengthened Jordan’s position as a contributor to global best practices in childcare.

Looking ahead
AlZoubi will continue serving as National Director in Jordan while assuming her new duties as Chair of the International SOS Children’s Villages’ General Assembly. Her election comes during a period of structural transformation within the federation, which recently established its first International Board and introduced new governance mechanisms.
Her leadership is expected to bring regional perspectives to the global stage and to help advance inclusive, rights-based approaches to childcare, family support, and participatory governance.