April marked an important moment of transition within our Board of Trustees, recognising both the contribution of a long-serving trustee and the appointment of new leadership to guide the organisation forward.
Recognising Rob Warren’s Contribution
After completing eight years of dedicated service, Rob Warren approaches the end of his tenure on the ISTA Board. His time as Trustee and Chair has spanned a period of transition, challenge, and loss, as well as innovation and growth across the organisation.
A long-standing and deeply committed member of the ISTA community, Rob has contributed with generosity, insight, and a steadfast belief in the power of the arts. Reflecting on his time with ISTA, he shared:
“The impact of ISTA’s work extends far beyond the workshops, festivals, and programmes the team facilitates — the work of our community shapes young people’s confidence, creativity, and sense of belonging in the world. It has truly been an honour to serve this wonderful organisation.”
While stepping back from his governance role, Rob remains an important part of the wider ISTA community, and we look forward to his continued collaboration in the years ahead. We extend our sincere thanks for his leadership, care, and lasting contribution.
New Board Leadership
Looking ahead, ISTA is pleased to confirm the appointment of Steven Parker as Chair and Malina Patel as Vice Chair of the Board.
Steven Parker, who has served on the ISTA Board since 6 April 2025 and is based in London, brings extensive international leadership experience, having worked across the UK, Australia, Hong Kong, South Africa, and France. With a background in senior executive roles, he combines strategic insight with strong governance experience. Alongside his professional work, Steven is deeply committed to inclusion and access, and brings with him a long-standing engagement with the performing arts. His appointment as Chair reflects both the strength of his experience and his alignment with ISTA’s mission as the organisation enters its next phase of development.
Malina Patel, who has served on the ISTA Board since 1 April 2021 and is currently based in Bangkok, is an educator and theatre practitioner whose work is grounded in a belief in theatre as a powerful tool for reflection, dialogue, and human connection. As Vice Chair, she plays a key role in supporting the Chair, contributing to effective governance, and helping to guide ISTA’s strategic direction.
Welcoming New Trustees
Following a rigorous and extensive search over the past few months, ISTA is also pleased to welcome two new Trustees to the Board: Rene Ribant and Helen Szymczak.
Rene Ribant is based in Michigan, USA, where she serves as an Assistant Principal at Dakota High School. An IB Theatre examiner and ISTA workshop leader, she brings experience that bridges school leadership and artistic practice, with a strong focus on equity, student voice, and global citizenship.
Helen Szymczak is Director of Performing Arts at Marymount International School London and a long-standing ISTA artist, IB Theatre examiner, and workshop leader, with over two decades of experience in international arts education.
We would like to thank all applicants who expressed interest in joining the Board. The strength and depth of applications received reflect the passion, expertise, and commitment within our global community. We look forward to welcoming further trustees in the future as the organisation continues to grow.
Looking Ahead
Together, these appointments strengthen our Board and position us well for the next phase of ISTA’s development, as we continue to grow our global community and deepen our impact for young people and educators around the world.
