Education International remembers Petra Gwyn-Jones
Former Education International Executive Officer Petra Gwyn-Jones passed away on April 19th in Perk, Belgium. The EI team mourns a dear colleague and celebrates her legacy and contribution to the global education union movement.
Born in Woolwich, London in 1959, Petra had a successful international career, working in the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Belgium.
During her 19 years with the Education International Head Office in Brussels, Petra worked closely with EI General Secretary Emeritus Fred van Leeuwen, former Deputy General Secretary Charlie Lennon, and General Secretary David Edwards, organising numerous missions, coordinating governance meetings, and managing major EI events. She led the successful organisation of four editions of the World Congress - EI’s highest decision-making body. Coordinating with teams across the world, Petra helped to bring together thousands of delegates from EI member organisations to chart the way forward for education and education workers. She also coordinated the relocation of the EI Head Office in Brussels and the move of the EI Asia Pacific Office from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok.
Petra led the Administration team with dedication and professionalism, helping EI to deliver on its mission for its 33 million members. Petra retired from EI in 2022.
"Petra was the beating heart of EI for two decades. She was the colleague who organized clothing drives for Ukrainian and Afghan refugees with the same determination and professionalism that she repeatedly organized EI's World Congresses of 2,000 international delegates in different venues around the world. She was well regarded by staff and leaders for her directness, generosity, dependability, and integrity. If you wanted to be sure something was done well, you gave it to Petra. Moreover, she was my friend who facilitated my relocation and integration here so well that I now call it home. It is nearly impossible for me to comprehend that she will no longer be a phone call away, but I will use what I have learned from her as will so many, as a living tribute to her lasting impact and a life well lived,” stated David Edwards, Education International General Secretary.
Petra will be remembered for her remarkable strength, honesty, humour, and genuine friendship. Her formidable presence and her ability to guide and inspire those around her helped to set a high standard of quality and to foster a spirit of resilience and optimism that lives on in the Education International Secretariat team.
Loving mother to Sam and Fleur, wife to Wim, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to many, Petra will be missed by all.
